Sewing Machines at a Quandry?

by Elizabeth
(Nutrioso, AZ USA)

I feel like I'm buying a car. You can't get prices for what a sewing machine costs. I know it depends on the dealer. I have come down to two choices: Bernina (nearest dealer 230 miles) and Janome only 60 miles away. I live in a very rural area, so I have to take this into consideration.

But, I'm just beginning, so I just want the first-level of their computer model or the next mechanical sewing machine, before the computer model. They vary so much, as well as the used ones. It's hard to tell whether I'm getting a good one or not. My husband said to get a good one.

I'm afraid of the ones with too much stuff on them and will get too confused trying to use it. I know not to get a Singer or Cosco special. I've been there. I've gone through 5 to 6 machines, and my girlfriend, after 20 years, still has her Bernina. She knows me and said "Don't get a computer one. You're not mechanically inclined."

I'm wondering what you would recommend? I'm looking at a used Bernina 1230 or 210 or 220 or even a new Activa. One quilting teacher said they cost $700.00. The dealer, 350 miles away, said $999. What a discrepancy.

One dealer told me the Bernettes, which seemed small and not complicated, were made in China and were all made of plastic inside. I thought no, not another Singer problem! I had seriously thought about one of these. It does not have the good reputation that most Berninas have, which are all metal, except for the outside plastic covering.

Janome I favor. These look friendly, but again I don't want one that's too complicated. I'm looking at the 3050 or 6260. It's all so new and confusing can you help?

ANSWER

Picking a Sewing Machine You'll Love can be challenging. With so many on the market, it can make your head spin. But with a little time and effort, you'll find one that's right for you. For a head start, please read these "Sewing Machine Reviews." Here's a few more things to consider:

Features
Some handy features include 1/4" foot, needle up/needle down, retractable feed dogs, adjustable needle positions, variable speed control, darning/free motion foot, and a walking/even feed foot. If you're going to do appliqué work, you'll need a zig-zag or a blanket stitch. Don't pay for functions you'll never use.
Creative Financing
For example, no payments /no interest for a year. Or, delay your first payment for 90 days. Sometimes, you'll get a discount if you open a credit account with them.
Trade up Policy
Can you trade in your machine for an upgraded model? If so, what is the time frame?
Free Training Classes
Do they teach you how to use your machine?
Service Plan
What does it cover? How long does it last? Can you buy an extended plan?
Where is the Machine Made?
Can you easily find parts? If so, are they expensive? Can you service your machine locally?
Computerized or Standard Sewing Machine?
Computerized machines offer more bells and whistles. A lot of quilters buy them for this reason. But if you never use all the extra features, why spend the extra money? Remember, too, that repairs are more costly on computerized machines.

An standard machine is all you'll need to make quilts. Make sure it includes a straight stitch, and a zig-zag or blanket stitch (if you plan to do appliqué work). A 1/4" foot and a walking foot are also helpful.
Test Drive Each Machine.
I recommend going to the dealership. This gives you a chance to try out the machines and to ask questions. Beware. Every dealer will tell you that their machines are the best!

Here are a few "Sewing Machine Review" sites. They offer professional and consumer opinions on all kinds of machines. Enjoy!

Sewing Machines @Wize.com

Ebay Sewing Machine Reviews

Consumer Research

Yahoo Answers

Quilt Bus

Sewing Machine Reviews

Quilting Assistant