Sewing Machines

[Colette_B]

Ah, lots of good info here, I want to get a sewing machine, and I consider myself a beginner, so from reading the posts here, I guess I'm better off purchasing a simple machine...

[justinleaddict]

Originally Posted by tott

I'm suspicious in general about computerized machines with a bazillion decorative stitching options... They often don't sew good straight seams in my experience.

I have a practically ancient Singer I bought used 20 years ago, and it's really good! You can find similar ones for 100-150 €, and they are really worth every cent IMO.

Really? I have a very old singer also but the stitching doesnt seem to be strong.

I'm mainly looking for something that can make quality stitching like you would see in nicer clothing brands... can most newer sewing machines do something like that, or..?

edit: Also, does the type of thread you use matter?

[Elegance.Is.Refusal.]

i have a janome its a computerized one but not one of those fancy ones that embroiders its just to change the stitches. it works like a dream but as for stitch quality its good but home machines can never compare to the quality of industrial ones.

it does its job though and its going to get me through my fashion course and hopefully beyond aswell. i'd still prefer a one with buttons and knobs instead of computerized because i have a feeling it would be harder to fix if something broke

[criticsdarling]

I too have a Husqvarna Viking (classica 90). It was my mom's bought in the 80's and I've never had any problems with it.

[justinleaddict]

What is the difference between a "lockstitch" and a "straightstitch" ?

[Sephora_Socialite]

What are good affordable sewing machines that can sew heavy materials like leather?

I heard that an old 60's Pfaff (in particular heavy duty models like the 260) is good for what I'm looking for? I saw one on ebay for 150 so its not so bad.

[kisa]

Originally Posted by tott

I'm suspicious in general about computerized machines with a bazillion decorative stitching options... They often don't sew good straight seams in my experience.

I have a practically ancient Singer I bought used 20 years ago, and it's really good! You can find similar ones for 100-150 €, and they are really worth every cent IMO.

Agreed. I have a "vintage" singer, a new Kenmore, and also a new serger, I think it's Pfaff but can't remember the name. The serger is in a league of it's own compared to the sewing machines, but when comparing the old and new sewing machines the old singer wins hands down. It's so much sturdier when you pick it up, and when it's sewing. The stitches are always even and straight, it's just lacking the freearm capability of my Kenmore. (Why I keep the Kenmore) I also used the computerized Husqvarna Viking machines in school, both the embroidery and non-embroidery one and those were pretty awesome, but for someone sewing with fashion in mind I think the bells and whistles are unecessary. I have yet to see an attractive article of clothing finished with a "floral scroll" or stitch.

Justinleaddict: I don't know if anyone would agree with me, but I think you will probably need an industrial sewing machine to get that perfect professional stitch.

[Besame]

I was using a Husqvarna Viking Sewing Machine, I don't remember the model but it was a Group 5. & I loveddddd it. It ran perfectly for me and it could really take off when I was doing straight stitching. It wasn't my machine though, it was my highschool's machine.

I then got one of the "vintage" Singers from the 1970s. I have the manuel and everything but it doesn't cooperate with me and I'm fed up with it now. & I don't think it's worth taking it somewhere to be looked at. So, now I'm in search for another sewing machine as well.

[emanuelle]

does anyone know anything about consew, necchi, or singer industrial sewing machines?