Home Sewing Machines
Find Your Perfect Fit

Dealer or No Dealer?

Not everyone lives in an area large enough to have a dealer for home sewing machines or embroidery sewing machines; however, if there is any way for you to visit a dealership when you are looking to buy a new machine or even a new serger, I highly recommend it.

Dealerships allow you to hands on test drive their products for as many times as it takes for you to make your decision. If they don’t allow you as much time as you need, they aren’t worth your business. I haven’t seen a discount or major department store yet that allows customers to test their sewing machines before buying. In fact, I can’t recall ever seeing fabric stores let you test them on site unless they happen to have an in-store class going on.

No dealers in your area? There are many companies that have on-line stores and provide excellent service after the sale. Just be sure to do your homework before you purchase. Read what others have to say and be sure you know their return and other store policies.

Choices, Choices, Choices!

There are many brands and models of home sewing machines available and many of them convert to embroidery machines. An embroidery site which I am a member of conducted a survey and sewing machine review of the different sewing embroidery machines used by members. I counted (within all the brands listed) sixty-five different models so far and I know they haven't listed all of them.

If you are interested in a home sewing machine, you will have no trouble finding one that fits you and your specific needs. All the major brands offer machines from a few basic stitches up to a hundred or more programmed within; however, computerized machines are so multifunctional and in so many price ranges that I wonder why anyone would not buy one. Believe me, they are only going to keep getting better and easier to use.

Can you imagine it? A digital voice says, “Hello Susie. What are we making today? Please choose your thread color, insert your fabric and keep your hands and feet clear of the machine while we sew for you.” Don't laugh, I think it's coming. Soon.

Whether you are looking to buy an inexpensive home sewing machine under two hundred dollars (which work just fine) or are looking to invest in a computerized dream machine costing several thousand, I repeat, if possible try it out first. There may be little differences between brands (or between models of the same brand)that you will like over the others. If you can’t give it a live test drive, check out consumer reports for home sewing machines or read as many sewing machine reviews as possible. Many web sites that sell different brands of home sewing machines also offer customer reviews. Do your homework. If buying a computerized machine, will you be happy with a touch screen that is not in color? What about the placement of it? Do you want it to hook up to your computer or will you be happy using a card. How much are you willing to spend on needed accessories? Again, do your homework. You are making an investment that should last twenty years or more.

Looking for a starter sewing machine for your child? Several companies have machines suitable for younger sewers and some of these can be found at your local big name discount stores. Some parents won't agree with me, but I would hesitate to buy a machine with a cutsey design that your child might get tired of. She or he might love Hello Kitty one month and hate it the next. I'd stick with a white one that has some color added to it. (Brother makes these.)

The Weight Issue - Is it a Portable Sewing Machine?

So, how are those strength classes coming along! One thing I believe people do not think about before they purchase is the weight of the machine. If you plan to tote yours to sewing circles, quilting clubs, craft fairs, or just around the house, you had better think about this. Pounds matter and you can’t put your sewing machine on a diet! Many of the computerized models are pretty darn heavy so check the specifications if you can’t see it in person. Joanne Fabrics and other places sell wheeled totes for machines, but one size may not fit all so before you purchase one, take accurate measurements for length, width and height!

Know What You Like

Buying a home sewing machine is a lot like buying a car. Once you know what you like and why you like it, then you can shop around as an informed buyer and find the best price on your preferred machine. Also, watch for seasonal sales and promotions. Oftentimes during a sales promotion, extras are added with the purchase of the machine.

Maybe you like a particular brand and want to stay with it. I can understand that. However, even within the same brand line, each model offers something different. What type of sewing will you be doing most? Are you a beginner or advanced? How much sewing do you do? Several hours a day? Once a week? Do you sew for a hobby or do you plan on starting a business? Is there someplace near you that can repair the brand you are interested in? Shipping charges can really eat into your wallet and if you have a home based business, lengthy downtime for repairs is bad news.

On a personal note, I use Babylock sewing machines and I bought each one from my local dealer at the Bobbin Stop. Why? Several reasons. I like the way the Babylock brands look. They appeal to me visually. I prefer the ease of a drop in bobbin. I also like the name, it’s kind of sweet, the way I want my experience to be. (Unlike Husqvarna which sounds like I should be sewing with a sword strapped to my side.) Also, Babylock (which is kissing kin to Brother sewing machines) has a good reputation. And probably, the most important reason for me, my dealer is local, wonderful to work with and everyone at the store makes you feel welcome and important to them. Also, almost every single repair is done at the store. They know their products inside and out. Make sure wherever YOU buy from knows everything about your home sewing machine.

In the end, your reasons for buying a particular machine will be your own. My mother refuses to buy anything other than a Necchi. She can’t even tell you a reason except that “well, that’s what I had before.” Before what? 1940?? It’s a work horse with no frills. But, it doesn’t matter. It does what she wants it to.

You’ll find one that does what YOU want it to as well.

"Happy Stitching!"

I hope you get inspired and want to learn more about home sewing machines. If you feel the need to surf for more information, please do! Just be sure to check back from time to time to see what's been added to this site.

Happy Stitching!

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