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Original poster

First Sewing machine - help.

18 replies

Newbeetry · 03/03/2023 17:49

Can you help with suggestions please. I would like to buy a sewing machine - new hobby, to make cushions . Throws and covers which would be lined possibly with fleece type material.

A basic machine . Easy to work and sturdy enough for this. I would be using YouTube fir tutorial as well. Budget up to £100 electric. Thanks!

OP posts:
pastabest · 08/03/2023 21:22

I know this was a few days ago but I would always recommend the Brother LS14 as a beginner machine.

When you get going come and join us on the stitch and bitch threads Grin

Original poster
Newbeetry · 12/03/2023 17:18

Aaah thank you ! I am aiming to get it at the end of the month so hope to see you on the thread soon. Smile

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Baldieheid · 12/03/2023 17:20

Yep, the Brother LS14 is the machine I teach beginners on, so I'd 2nd the recommendation.

MightyMeerkat · 12/03/2023 21:45

I'd recommend the Brother LS14 too. A great beginner machine. Easy to use. And not expensive.

toysexplorer · 22/03/2023 06:54

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Cheesedoffandgrumpy · 22/03/2023 07:04

If sewing is totally new to you, could you possible borrow or lend a machine from a freind or family, then if its not for you, no waste.
Otherwise, go secondhand. Older machines tend to be much more robust, the internal frame is morelikely to be metal.
I got an old Elna, new in the 1960s, as my starter machine and it's the one i am still using.
Only thing I would def suggest is with a drop in bobbin. Side loading is a nightmare.

Original poster
Newbeetry · 22/03/2023 08:17

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Thanks but what I'm looking for

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Original poster
Newbeetry · 22/03/2023 08:21

Cheesedoffandgrumpy · 22/03/2023 07:04

If sewing is totally new to you, could you possible borrow or lend a machine from a freind or family, then if its not for you, no waste.
Otherwise, go secondhand. Older machines tend to be much more robust, the internal frame is morelikely to be metal.
I got an old Elna, new in the 1960s, as my starter machine and it's the one i am still using.
Only thing I would def suggest is with a drop in bobbin. Side loading is a nightmare.

Yes I thought of this but looking at 2nd hand there isn't much difference in price. I also don't have any one who is likely to have an old machine.
A new one isn't too expensive I'm seeing the Brother LS14 mentioned for less than £100. It would also come with a warranty which 2nd wouldn't.

Thank you

OP posts:
mixedrecycling · 22/03/2023 09:48

I got an old Elna, new in the 1960s, as my starter machine and it's the one i am still using.

I have a 1930s Singer that I use 😁I love it!

Daffodilsandtuplips · 22/03/2023 11:20

I got a sewing machine from Sewing Studio during Lockdown. Mine was a bit more advanced but they have these two in your budget range.
Neither of them have needle threaders but I used to put a piece of white card behind the needle eye which made it a lot easier.

First Sewing machine - help.
Daffodilsandtuplips · 22/03/2023 11:26

I forgot to mention that if you’re going to be sewing fleecy fabric you may need to invest in a roller presser foot. It helps the fabric glide through the machine better.

GnomeDePlume · 22/03/2023 11:37

My first machine was a Hobbycraft basic one. I was very happy with it and only got rid when I wanted some of the fancier stitches and automatic buttonholes.

I had a brief dalliance with a secondhand Singer. It had been serviced but thread tension went to pot suggesting something in the innards was worn out.

So I would be wary of secondhand. Sewing machines can last but if they do sewists tend to hang onto them.

crazeecatladee · 22/03/2023 11:43

Bernina evert time. Well made, sturdy, reliable. I've had mine 50yrs and it's had a couple of services and a new motor. It will sew anything from fine lawn to leather. Wonderful machine

Original poster
Newbeetry · 22/03/2023 17:44

crazeecatladee · 22/03/2023 11:43

Bernina evert time. Well made, sturdy, reliable. I've had mine 50yrs and it's had a couple of services and a new motor. It will sew anything from fine lawn to leather. Wonderful machine

Bernina - reminds me of school

OP posts:
Original poster
Newbeetry · 22/03/2023 17:46

Daffodilsandtuplips · 22/03/2023 11:26

I forgot to mention that if you’re going to be sewing fleecy fabric you may need to invest in a roller presser foot. It helps the fabric glide through the machine better.

Yes I will be using fleece fabrics so I'll think of that part - also can't see to thread a needle so will add the previous item mentioned to my list

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crazeecatladee · 23/03/2023 12:20

@Newbeetry and were they reliable?

Original poster
Newbeetry · 23/03/2023 12:36

😀Very long time ago! I don't remember any problems in the class so I'm sure they were.

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Original poster
Newbeetry · 23/03/2023 17:29

crazeecatladee · 23/03/2023 12:20

@Newbeetry and were they reliable?

I've just seen the price. More than my budget - maybe later if I reach my goal!

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