The Art of Choosing a Sewing Machine

Learning to sew can be a lot of fun, but getting a sewing machine may feel a bit intimidating since you’re not familiar with the terminology. There are many great options available at various prices, but which one is best for your needs?  Should you buy a used machine, or a new one? Mechanical or electronic? There are so many choices, but what do you actually need? You need a machine that:

• Is reliable and relatively easy to maintain.

• Sews consistently, producing neat, uniform stitches.

• Performs in a way that helps you achieve your sewing goals.

• Will give you room to grow.

  
  

This may sound vague, but it is meant to make you think.  Selecting a sewing machine is a very personal decision. Where you are today in your sewing journey may not be where you will be two or three years from now. There are many great older-model machines that are workhorses and there are new machines that may not make it one year before a plastic part breaks and cannot be repaired.  How do you know?  You simply don’t.  

Getting a sewing machine is a lot like buying a car.  Every model has different features that you need to consider; some attributes are must-haves, and some you can live without.  This is not an overnight decision, so take your time.  All machines will require maintenance.  A machine tucked in a closet for ten years will run about as well as an unused car left in a garage for 6 months. You will want to have a good technician available who can service your machine beyond the basic cleaning, regardless whether it is a new or used model. 

You Have Choices

Mechanical machines have dials and knobs to change stitch settings. They have a limited stitch selection, require you to manually set the needle position with the handwheel, can be heavy to move, and speed control is your foot.  But they tend to be affordable, durable, and are relatively easy to maintain. If you get easily overwhelmed with technology, a mechanical machine may be a good choice for you.  

Electronic sewing machines may be loaded with features and options, offer digital precision, weigh less, and often include an abundance of accessories.  Because these units rely on digital interfaces, LCD screens, and multiple electronic sensors, troubleshooting them usually requires taking the machine to a professional repair shop. Your learning curve will also depend on how intuitive the digital menus are presented, and how complicated the programming sequences become. 

Do you start with a new or used machine? You will likely waiver back and forth on this question as you learn about what features you need. New is new; however, used can be as good as new. If you are able, ask when it was last serviced and if it was in a smoking environment. Tar and smoke have a negative effect on anything electrical, causing premature failure of the device. Be sure the machine comes with a power cord, foot controller, and any other attachments.  Look up the model number to see if this was a good performing machine back in the day. You may have found a gem! 

Step 1: Set personal goals 

Goal setting does not need to be complicated.  In order to get a sewing machine that fits your needs, think about what you want to make.  Garment sewing will provide a great foundation of skills and establish a confidence level with your machine before you dive into making quilts or home décor.  Your initial goal(s) should be specific, such as making simple garments or alterations to thrift store finds this summer. Long-term goals will change with time, especially as your knowledge and skill base grows. Next year, you may want to learn how to make quilts or add more personal touches to your home décor.  

Step 2: Do your research 

How do you know what features you want on a sewing machine? Research! Talk to others who sew or quilt and ask them what machine features they use the most.  It could be a needle positioning option, variable stitch width and length options, a needle threader, or a variable speed control.  Read reviews and join a few online sewing forums to gain insight and ask questions. 

Make a list of your “must haves”, and also write down what you can live without.  Why? Because the act of writing it down will remind you that you really don’t need all the bells and whistles.  Call several sewing stores within 50 miles of you, and see what brands they offer for sale, and what models they are able to service.  Many shops sell used machines that have been traded in, so it is worth asking about!  Revisit your notes and rank various models based on your personal requirements.  If you are set on a used model, online Marketplaces offer the ability to ask questions from the former owner that a thrift store would not be able to answer. 

Step 3: Determine the Cost of Ownership

Set a realistic budget, knowing generally what machines cost from your initial research. Quality machines are accessible, and your timing may sync with seasonal discounts or other promotions. Your budget should also include long-term expenses, such as the cost of consumables (needles, thread, machine oil), accessories, maintenance costs (deep cleaning, adjustments, software updates) and repairs – collectively known as the cost of ownership. In general, electronic machines will have a higher cost of ownership due to the costs of components and specialized technicians who are trained to troubleshoot and repair those models. 

Some reliable, quality machine brands I would consider include Bernina, Janome, Baby Lock, and Brother. These companies are industry leaders, and have dealerships across the country. They carry a wide variety of models for all levels of sewists, and include specialized machines such as sergers and embroidery units. 

Step 4: Take a field trip

Plan to visit at least three sewing shops and try out a few machines that you discovered in your research.  You wouldn’t buy a car without a test drive, would you?  Any good store will listen to you, and suggest models in line with your skills and needs.

Topics to ask about: 

• What is the difference between metal and plastic parts, and how does it relate to performance and costs? 

• What differentiates model A from model B? 

• What type of warranties are offered?  How does this impact the overall purchasing cost? 

• Are there in-person or online classes offered for this model? 

• Which accessories are included?  Which ones are available for purchase? 

• Is maintenance done in-house, or are machines sent out for repairs? 

• What is the average cost of servicing this machine?

Take notes! There is a lot of information to digest. 

You want a store (and a good technician) that will be there to help you when you need service and support as your needs change. Building a relationship with your store is no different than your relationship with a trusted automobile mechanic. If you don’t get a good feeling about the shop or its people, keep looking. 

Step 5: Reflect and Growth

Think about your time on your field trip, and how each of the machines felt to you:  

• How responsive is the foot controller? 

• Are the settings and indicators easy to understand? 

• Does the machine sound unusually loud or vibrate excessively under high speeds? 

• Do you feel “in control” without the machine taking off and leaving you behind? 

• Which machine will help you achieve your goals, has the features you need and work within your budget?

Keep asking questions until you find the right “fit” for you. Only you know the answer. 

It’s also important to consider your sewing potential.  Asking yourself, “Where do I see my skills three years from now” will help you find potential features for your sewing machine. This question is important so you don’t purchase a machine that you will outgrow in a year or two.  

As you continue to sew, you will naturally become more efficient.  Some efficiency and productivity features include a one-step buttonhole option, a knee lift for hands-free pivoting, or a needle up/down positioning button, to name a few. 

My thoughts about online stores

I do not encourage purchasing a sewing machine online. There is a lot of risk and uncertainty for the amount of money you are choosing to spend. When you buy online, you forfeit the ability to “test drive” the model before you purchase. There is no way to get to know the dealer where you will need maintenance work done, which means no free lessons or other perks they may offer. You also run the risk of damage to fragile internal parts during shipping, and costly return shipping/restocking fees if the machine isn’t what you were expecting.  Even big box and craft stores who sell machines usually can’t explain how they work, and the models they offer are produced with many plastic components that can easily break and cannot be repaired. They jam up, lack proper tension mechanisms, and skip stitches. If a “deal” sounds too good to be true, it probably is.  Why sign yourself up for all that frustration? 

I hope you use this information when considering a sewing machine purchase. Please reach out if you have questions about machine features. As you learn, you will grow.  I just want to plant the seed.  

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Happy Sewing, 

Christina