A Simple Guide To Buying Your First Sewing Machine

By Author: Caroline Sanders
Total Articles: 12
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Thinking of getting a sewing machine but didn't know what to look out for, given the many different brands, styles, models and prices available nowadays? It's understandable. After all, the sewing machine is one of the most expensive item you'll probably buy for your sewing room and thus it's natural to feel a little anxious and lost with all the information available.

To help you with that, here are some rules of thumb to consider when selecting a suitable sewing machine:

(1) Decide What's You're Going To Use The Sewing Machine For

Ask yourself, what do you intend to use the sewing machine for? Is it for producing new shirts for your hubby, designing quilts for the kid or embroidering intricate patterns on your new hankies? Regardless of the rationale, always remember this. Sewing machines are designed for different purposes and buying one that fulfil your wants is the fundament of a good buying decision. Do not get something just because your relative has one or you'll land up with a white elephant!

Next, take a look at the usable space available in your sewing room or the section of your household ...
... where you'll be putting the sewing machine. Is it large or small? Are there electric ports around the area? This information will help you decide if you require a sewing machine that's electric, mechanical, computerised, compact or simply serge.

(2) Research On What's Available

Assuming you've a sketchy idea of what you might require, research on the different models or brands of sewing machines which focuses in that. For example, if embroidery's your passion, googling for that will point you to brands such as Viking etc. Review the models they provide, their features and of course, the price ranges.

Go through some of the customer's reviews to ascertain if there's anything specially good or bad about a certain model.

(3) Decide On Your Budget

By this time, you'll have a overall idea of how much the sewing machines that meet your needs, costs. Settle on an amount you can and are willing to pay. The price can range from less than a hundred bucks for a no frills, simple model to over seven thousand bucks for an equipment that does almost everything except cutting out your cloth. Stay firm and don't fall into the trap of buying something because you think you "might" need them. Go for something you know you'll unquestionably use once you fork out the cash!

(4) Test Out the Machine(s)

Write out the few sewing machines you're considering and setup a trial appointment with the nearest neighbourhood reseller. Or with a person whom you know owns the machine. Try out the stitches and features that you'll be using with pieces of cloth you work on most often.

At the same time, check out with your pal or the reseller about its endurance, warranty, ease of changing machine components, service costs, upgrades etc. If you're liasing with a dealer, try asking if they provide free sewing classes as a incentive.

(5) Make The Purchase

Once you've decide which machine to get, buying it is the easiest part. You can buy it from your local reseller or online via reputed distributors. Some online distributors offer superb price cuts or bargains because of their lower adminstrative expenses. Nonetheless, do ensure such cost savings are not overridden by an unfair return regulation or expensive delivery costs. Be aware your rights so that you'll have a much gratifying online buying experience!
Caroline Sanders writes for a living and loves sewing. Read her other articles on sewing machines selection. And if you want to buy Singer sewing machines or other brands like Husqvarna Viking sewing machines, check out the links.