10 Key Considerations Before Purchasing Your First Machine

Learning to use a sewing machine can be an exciting adventure.  There are so many things you can do with one. You can make clothing, make repairs, make your home accessories, do quilting, do embroidery, and the list goes on.

When purchasing your first machine there are many considerations you may want to think about before you take the plunge.

A few of those considerations are listed below and you will have to decide which of those things is more important or doable such as looking at your budget and the machine type, or the size and portability or ease of use.  They all may be important to you and if so, you will be able to make a better decision when you know what you are looking for.

You may want to look at or think about many other things, but these are the major points I will cover here.

YOUR BUDGET

Determine your budget range beforehand.

 Sewing machines come in various price ranges, from budget-friendly basic models to high-end machines with advanced features.

Consider how much you’re willing to invest in a sewing machine based on your current skill level and anticipated usage.

Decide if you can purchase a brand-new machine or if you would be just as happy to purchase a used one.  There are always gently used machines listed on FB marketplace or Craigslist that you may find that would satisfy your needs.

As a beginner, you may want to think about purchasing a basic model until you have mastered machine stitching and then upgrade later.

You may even consider borrowing a machine from a friend or family member just to make sure you want to invest in your machine.

Whether you purchase a used machine or a new machine, make sure you get the machine manual, or that you can access the manual online.

You can thank me later!

 

 MACHINE TYPE

 

There are several different types of sewing machines catering to various sewing needs:

•          Mechanical Sewing Machines: Operate manually with knobs and dials. Think about what your great-grandmother may have had.

 •          Computerized Sewing Machines: Feature digital displays, programmable stitch patterns, and automated functions.

 •          Serger/Overlock Machines: Specifically designed for finishing edges and sewing seams in fabrics.

 

FEATURES AND ACCESSORIES

When purchasing your first machine, consider the features and accessories that come with the sewing machine.  There are a lot of them, but here are just a few:

• Automatic or Built-In Needle Threader: this feature minimizes eye strain and simplifies the threading process which can be a wonderful thing as you get older, and you cannot see that little, tiny hole in your needle.
• Adjustable presser foot: this feature allows for sewing on a variety of fabric thicknesses without issue.
• Adjustable Speed Control: Ability to control the speed of stitching for precision and ease of use.
• Free arm capability this feature is essential for sewing sleeves, cuffs, and other round items.
• Extension table which offers additional workspace for larger projects.
• Quality built-in lighting for better visibility, and to illuminate the workspace and reduce eye strain.
• Accessory feet which is a selection of presser feet for different stitches and sewing techniques (e.g., zipper foot, buttonhole foot)
•  Other adjustable features such as thread cutter, needle up-or-down position, tie-off, or tacking feature.

There are many more features to look for and if you are looking for an upscale machine that could be a little more expensive.  It is all what you would like.

STITCH VARIETY AND OPTIONS

Assess the range of stitches offered by the machine. Basic stitches include straight stitch, zigzag stitch, and buttonhole stitch.

 There are basic machines that just have the straight stitch and zig-zag stitches and possibly a few decorative stitches.

 The more advanced machines offer many decorative stitches, stretch stitches, and quilting stitches.

 An embroidery machine offers an expansive number of stitches and if you get a computerized machine you can set the machine to embroider the stitches for you.

 Look at the stitch length and width adjustment options where you can customize the stitch size for various stitching projects.

Check to see if there is an option for tension adjustment which allows you to fine-tune the tension of the thread for different fabrics and techniques.

And if you are planning to do some free-motion quilting you definitely want to check and see if you have the option to lower the feed dogs on the machine.

Again, you will just have to assess your needs.

DURABILITY AND QUALITY

When shopping for a machine, choose one made from durable materials that can withstand regular use.

 It is a good idea to read as many reviews as you can about the machine you are thinking about purchasing.

 Ask friends or family members for recommendations regarding machines they have had or currently have.

 Also, consider the reputation of the manufacturer.

SIZE AND PORTABILITY

Something most people don’t think about when purchasing a machine is the size and weight of the sewing machine, especially if you have limited space or plan to attend sewing classes, workshops, or travel.

Portable and lightweight machines are easier to transport and easier to store away when not being used.

Look to see if the machine has a handle and a cover.  A bag or crate to transport the machine will be an added expense if the machine does not already have a cover.

EASE OF USE

Look for a user-friendly machine, especially if you’re a beginner.

 Features such as easy threading, clear bobbin winding, and intuitive stitch selection can streamline your sewing experience.

 If you purchase a machine that is hard to learn to use or has a lot of obstacles, that machine will end up sitting in a closet.

BRAND AND WARRANTY

It never hurts to ask a friend or family member about the machines they have used.  Choose a reputable brand known for producing quality sewing machines.

Check the warranty coverage and after-sales support provided by the manufacturer.

Make sure there is a dealer in your community that you can take your machine to if you ever need help beyond basic maintenance.

It can be a very frustrating experience if no one in the community can help you get your machine back up and running if you have any issues that you cannot fix.

YOUR FUTURE NEEDS OR USES

Anticipate your future needs, sewing projects, and skill development when shopping for a sewing machine.

 Try to choose a sewing machine that can grow with you and accommodate more advanced techniques as you progress.

If you know that you are going to go beyond basic stitching, look for a machine that has several stitch types.  Some machines just have basic straight stitches and zigzag stitches, but some machines have decorative stitches.

TEST BEFORE PURCHASE

 

Whenever possible, test the sewing machine before making a purchase.

 If you are allowed to do so, try out different stitches, see how hard or easy it is to adjust the settings, and assess how comfortable you feel using the machine.

By carefully using the factors listed above, you can select a sewing machine that suits your budget, skill level, sewing requirements, and future needs, empowering you to embark on your sewing journey with confidence.

And remember, the best machine is the one you will use.

Happy Stitching!