A Guide to Finding the Perfect Sewing Machine
Types of Sewing Machines
You should begin your search for the best sewing machine by understanding your skill level, as well as how you intend to use the machine. There are many different types of sewing machines, so you need to find one that suits your needs.
The best sewing machine for beginners will be quite different from a machine with all the bells and whistles that a professional seamstress will use. Industrial sewing machines are designed to handle heavy fabrics, while your basic Singer sewing machine can handle everyday sewing projects quite nicely. Let's take a look at the different types of sewing machines that are available.
Beginner Sewing Machines
When searching for the best sewing machine for beginners, keep it simple. A good mechanical machine will be much easier to understand than a computerized version. Although extras such as embroidery capabilities may seem attractive, you could be confused by having too many options.
What you do want to look for is a machine with a built-in needle threader. You will thread your machine every time you change projects. If this task is complicated, you’ll become discouraged. A top-loading bobbin is also handy, and free arm capabilities will allow you to work around curves and in tight spaces with ease.
Basic Sewing Machines
Every seamstress needs a good basic machine in their collection. A basic mechanical Brother or Singer sewing machine that offers a good selection of basic stitches, along with a buttonhole feature and a zipper foot, will be your next step up from the beginner sewing machine.
Even after you have advanced your skills enough to move on to one of the different types of industrial sewing machines, you will still need a basic one for smaller projects. A basic sewing machine is the one you will turn to time after time.
Indusrial Sewing Machines
As your skill level improves, you will be trying bigger projects that require industrial sewing machines. Many of these may involve heavier fabrics such as wool or denim. A basic machine won’t have the power necessary for these materials. When working with more difficult fabrics, your needles may break, and the fabric will have a hard time fitting between the presser foot and feeder plate. This causes the machine to function improperly.
You will discover that there are many different types of industrial sewing machines available. Before you begin shopping for the best sewing machine, you should carefully consider the fabrics you will be working with, as well as how much space you have for the machine.
Leather Sewing Machines
Working with leather is a completely different ball game. Your regular machines won’t be suited for this unique material. A leather sewing machine will be a must when it comes to properly feeding the fabric through the machine. These machines also offer longer stitch settings that are more durable in leather products.
Most importantly, you need a reliable machine. Leather isn’t as forgiving as other materials. A wrong stitch will leave an unsightly hole that renders the leather useless. Increase your odds of getting it right by having a machine you trust.
Pros and Cons of Used Sewing Machines
A used sewing machine is not a bad thing. Many people often get rid of their machine simply because they have upgraded. This is especially true when it comes to beginner machines. Buying used can save you a substantial amount of money.
Carefully weigh the pros and cons of used sewing machines before making that final purchase. Inspect the machine for signs of damage, and beware a machine that looks old. You can always ask to try it out before purchasing it.
