Sewing machine for a beginner

[Chloe636]

I am a complete beginner with sewing machines but I would like to give it a try.

I need something simple, lightweight and above all easy to use. I need it for hemming and making basic things like curtains so nothing too adventurous!

I have had a JML Easystitch before and although it was good, I would like something a bit more advanced now. Not too much, but I want to use thicker fabrics and the needles break to easily on this.

Thanks

[lady_p_gold]

A lot of people make the mistake of buying a cheaper or lower quality sewing machine because they are beginners and then they find they don't sew very well and have all sorts of problems, they then feel that it is their fault. So ... my advice to you would be to buy a second hand Bernina if you can find one, although they are not all that lightweight, failing that an Elna would be good. You will find you can sew over pins and it copes with anything. Good luck

[mimififi]

I have a reconditioned husqvarna viking which is dead easy to use and also has other things on there which I don't always use.

The basic things you should have is a straight stitch and a zigzag stitch. Some machines also have what is called an overlock stitch which can be useful a it helps to finish off edges so that they don't fray. It is also best to have a button hole stitch.

But as lady P says, get the best quality you can afford as a poor machine will be soul destroying, not to mention expensive in ruined fabric. Best thing to do is go to a big sewing shop and ask t have a go. They are used to beginners so will be able to show you everything. The really big shops sometimes have workshops and reconditioned machines. Some shops also run classes and courses.

I love sewing and make many things for myself and the home; I wish you all the best with your endeavour. It's a dying skill, but such an enjoyable one.

[lady_p_gold]

The Viking Husqvarna is also an excellent machine as mimififi says. The bottom line is that the old really good quality second hand machines are better than the new ones for the same price.