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Sewing machine choices - Helllllppppp!

10 replies

RMWIFE · 18/03/2014 11:32

I have decided that I am going to make roman blinds for my house. I have no idea what kind of sewing machine to choose! Can anyone guide me?
Thanks

OP posts:
13loki · 18/03/2014 16:24

I got an IKEA sy for Xmas. It is still in the box and my curtains are still 2 foot too long.

craftynclothy · 18/03/2014 16:28

What's your budget?

BrownSauceSandwich · 18/03/2014 19:44

Ooh, I love a good sewing machine thread. Have you asked around family/friends/random strangers, in case they've got one gathering dust somewhere? You might get lucky and find a vintage Elna, Viking or (jackpot) Bernina... Then you invest your budget in getting it serviced, and end up with an amazing machine for not much money.

What you need for your money are straight stitch, zig-zag and reverse. If you can afford one more feature, I'd be torn between some sort of buttonhole function (fewer steps are easier, but not a necessity) and a free arm (for sleeves). Other features range from handy (needle threading, automatic up/down, overlooking stitch) to fun-but-frivolous (decorative stitches). And where you have a limited budget, you'll only get the whistles and bells at the cost of substance/quality.

wonkylegs · 19/03/2014 17:55

I have an older version of this Janome
It's a fab, reliable, easy to use all rounder machine & I've made many clothes, curtains, blinds, cushions & crafts with it.

Owllady · 19/03/2014 17:57

I think if you want t something cheap and cheerful you can't go wrong with a brother

EddieVeddersfoxymop · 19/03/2014 18:57

With sewing machines, you get what you pay for. What about heading to your nearest dealer and trying a few out to see what suits (I love Janome, can't sew for peanuts on a Brother, and I'm a professional that needs a sewing machine ha ha). By trying a lot of machines, you can get a feel for what you like. I also bought a spare, 2nd hand machine from my dealer for the princely sum of £45....a 1970's New Home (now Janome), fully serviced, years warranty - a total bargain.

amazonianwoman · 19/03/2014 19:15

Definitely Janome. The best you can afford Smile

Owllady · 19/03/2014 19:18

I world-class pattern cutter and have a fashion and textiles degree,I will have you know Eddie :o

Owllady · 19/03/2014 19:19

Omg, I did not type world class! Blush I typed I worked as

lockie1983 · 19/03/2014 20:49

Have a John Lewis own one ... Heard that the insides are Janome. It works really well and lovely to use. Prior to that had a cheapo Argos one, really rickety and served well for 15 years but died on my first pair of curtains

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