Tips for Buying a New Machine.

General tips for buying a new sewing machine.

There is no one sewing machine that is perfect for everyone. Therefore, it is best to test your dream machine in advance. In many cities there are specialist dealers who offer many models from different manufacturers and can show you exactly what advantages each machine offers. You will also receive instructions on the spot and have a direct contact person if you have any questions or problems. If you do not have the opportunity to go to a specialist shop, you should find out in advance what your new sewing machine should be able to do and what the prices of the different models are. Look out for ratings of individual machines or manufacturers and ask seamstresses you know which sewing machine they are happy with or what they find lacking - you might even try sewing there.

A simple home sewing machine - truly versatile.

Every creative household should not be without a regular home sewing machine. It is versatile, usually has a variety of stitches and can be individually adjusted. It is ideal for joining two or more layers of fabric together. You can also use it for hemming, applique, cloud edging and much more. A distinction is made between mechanical and computer-controlled sewing machines. Mechanical machines are often more robust because they contain no or very little error-prone technology. If you work a lot with thick materials and like to sew bags, a robust mechanical machine is suitable. Many models can sew multiple layers of denim, webbing and even leather. On the other hand, computerised sewing machines tend to have more setting options. Depending on the design, they are of course also able to process thicker materials. Stitch selection, length, width, thread tension and other parameters can be changed at the touch of a button. Many modern machines also have numerous decorative stitches with which you can add pretty seams.

What does a sewing machine need to be able to do?

What a good sewing machine must bring varies greatly from person to person. Firstly, you should consider what you are concentrating on. If you often sew thick fabrics or sometimes leather or several layers of jeans, there needs to be enough space underfoot. If you often sew delicate, thin and stretchy fabrics, a walking foot makes sense. Usually the sewing machine only transports the base fabric. In the case of thin or stretchy fabrics, layers of fabric then shift or ripple. The walking foot transports the outer material and ensures a more even seam pattern. If you don't have an overlocker but sew a lot of clothes, an overlock stitch makes sense. You can also finish with a normal zigzag stitch. Automatic stitches, for example for buttonhole hemming, are a nice touch. These are particularly practical when the machine sews the hole itself to fit the button. The buttons themselves can also be sewn on by some sewing machines. When buying a sewing machine, it is a good idea if all the necessary sewing feet, such as a zip foot, are already included. For garments, a free hand is helpful. You simply slide the sleeves or trouser legs onto this arm and roll them up so easily. The extension table can often be removed to use the free arm machine. 

The fold-out table usually has space for sewing feet, screwdrivers or spare needles. if all the necessary sewing feet, such as a zip foot, are already included. For garments, a free hand is helpful. You simply slide the sleeves or trouser legs onto this arm and roll them up so easily. The extension table can often be removed to use the free arm machine. The extension table usually has space for sewing feet, screwdrivers or spare needles. if all the necessary sewing feet, such as a zip foot, are already included. For garments, a free hand is helpful. You simply slide the sleeves or trouser legs onto this arm and roll them up so easily. The extension table can often be removed to use the free arm machine. The extension table usually has space for sewing feet, screwdrivers or spare needles.

These details are useful when deciding on a purchase:

Does it have lighting and is it bright enough?

Can the sewing machine thread automatically?

Are all the necessary stitches available?

Are automatic functions such as locking or buttonholes available?

How high is the foot stroke?

What accessories will I receive with the machine?