Choosing A Sewing Machine As A Beginner

Choosing A Sewing Machine As A Beginner

As someone getting into sewing, choosing the right sewing machine a crucial decision and there are multiple factors to consider before buying one. With the plethora of machines available today which have so many features, they’re specialized for specific purposes choosing the right one can get overwhelming.

So with this article, we’ll go through the process of choosing the right machine for your needs if you’re a beginner.

SOME PRO TIPS FOR BEGINNER SEWISTS

1. Purpose -

The level of features you’ll need depends on the purpose behind using the sewing machine, whether it is for regular or general sewing tasks, occasional tasks or you want to be an advanced sewist and perform highly specialized tasks like quilting or embroidery.

So first have some clarity in your mind as to what purposes you want your machine to serve.

Also, consider how frequently you’re going to sew 

2. Key Features - 

  • Basic Stitches - Make sure the machine has all the basic stitches like a straight stitch, cross stitch, and zigzag stitch rather than having a large variety of decorative stitches. Today machines come with more than 100 stitch options, if you’re a beginner make sure the machine has a large variety of basic stitches that are used for all basic tasks of sewing 

sewing machine stitches

  • Adjustable Stitch Length - Different fabrics and projects require different stitches and to make custom stitches you need adjustable stitch length and width.

stitch length control

  • Bobbin winder - Bobbin winding is a time-consuming task and today machines even beginner-level ones are equipped with automatic bobbin winders.

bobbin winder

  • Top Loading Bobbin - Because it is easier to work with than a front loading bobbin and easier to fix if something goes wrong, most importantly you can see how much thread it is holding so can add more thread beforehand preventing interruptions while sewing. 

top load bobbin

  • Snap-on presser feet - You will be amazed when you find the number of presser feet that are available and are made for specific sewing purposes, so the snap-on presser feet option for quick and easy changing of presser feet is a must.

snap on presser feet

  • Simpler Controls - Dials and buttons for easy operations, but you can also choose machines with a touch screen and navigational assistant because of the user friendly interface it will make sewing much more convenient for you.

bernina touch screen

  • Adjustable Speed Control - While learning you are going to make mistake so might want to take it slow hence the sewing speed needs to adjusted hence look for adjustable speed control.

sewing machine speed control

  • If you’re going to work on intricate designs don't forget sewing light.

bernina sewing machine with light

  • Also if you’re learning and are attend sewing classes then choose a lightweight and portable sewing machine

3. Type of Machines - 

  • we have extensively covered the types of machines, which machines are ideal for beginners, or advanced sewists and businesses, click here to have a look. 
  • For beginners machines that are recommended are -
  • Mechanical Sewing machines
  • Computerized Sewing machines
  • Refurbished Sewing machines

4. Top Brands For Sewing Machines - 

Bernina - Bernina, a Swiss company, is renowned for its high-quality, durable machines. While they are often considered a premium brand, Bernina offers models suitable for beginners, such as the Bernina B325. This model provides a selection of 97 stitches, an LCD display, and a semi-automatic needle threader, making it user-friendly for newcomers.

Janome - Janome, a Japanese brand, is known for its user-friendly and affordable machines. Models like the Janome J3-24 offer 24 stitch styles, a stitch width dial, and a twin needle facility, providing versatility for various projects

Bernette by Bernina - Bernette, a subsidiary of Bernina, offers machines that combine Bernina's quality with affordability. The Bernette B77, for example, offers a large extension table and throat space, making it suitable for quilting and garment sewing. It also features a hopping foot for free-motion quilting and a user-friendly interface

Brother - Brother is known for its versatile and budget-friendly machines. Models like the Brother XR3774 offer 37 built-in stitches, an automatic needle threader, and a wide table, making it suitable for various sewing projects.

SOME PRO TIPS FOR BEGINNER SEWISTS - 

  • Buy from a local dealer rather than buying from a big store, because they provide regular maintenance, service and repairs. Topstitch is one of the largest dealers of Bernina and Bernette sewing machines in Missouri , so we welcome you and we promise that you’ll have a great buying experience at out store.
  • Bring in some fabrics and try on the machine before you buy it 
  • Buying refurbished sewing machine is not a bad idea, you get advanced features at low price and these machines are checked, maintained and repaired so you will find them in good shape.
  • Don’t go behind buy machines with fancy decorative stitches, ask yourself what stitches you’ll really need and ensure your machine has all basic stitches

We hope this was helpful, if you still have questions or you simply want to know more, just contact our experts at Topstitch. 

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