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I need an inexpensive sewing machine to take to class. I tried a viking for about $100. I took it back, it never worked right. I don't want to spend more than $100 if I can help it for something to ride in my car but I hate having to lift my 30-40 lb machine in and out of car. Any help, thanks.
Unless you need fancy stitches, how about a vintage singer? Some of the 15's have the nice wooden case and are not overly heavy. Or keep your eyes open for a featherweight at the right price. I got my fw for $40 and she's perfect. Great for classes.
It is very hard to find a machine with any quality or flexibility in that price range, but you may want to check out used machines on Craigslist etc. It is out of your price range but I hear one of the class machines of choice these days is the Janome Jem Platinum.
Definitely check out Craigslist. I had the same problem as you - my trusty 35-year-old Kenmore is far too heavy for me to take to classes and for only $65 I found a newer lightweight Kenmore made by Janome (box says it's a 12102). Only draw-back is that FMQ is a pain because the feed dogs don't drop, but for sewing blocks it's fabulous.
A fabric stash is always missing that one fabric needed to finish the quilt on which you're working.
I never drop the feed dogs on my Janome 6600--just set the stitch length at 0. That works really well, have had no problems. It's what Leah Day does, she never drops her feed dogs.Originally Posted by ArtsyOne
The Trike Riding Quilting Diva
Oh my! I never knew we could do that!
I immediately ran to my machine, change to a FMQ foot and tried. It really works! The stitches look better with feed dog up than down. Thanks, I learnt something great today
I don't think any dealers will have a machine in that price range that you would like to be honest with you. What didn't you like about the Viking?
I agree with the others - check Craigslist but also check your local thrift stores - make sure you bring a needle, thread and a bit of fabric to try it out before you buy itIn my area, you can get a used sewing machine - even newer ones for less than $50, usually half that. If the weight is an issue, I'd suggest getting a wheeled case to take it to and from the car
I love Brother machines, they are very reasonable, lots of stitches on the new ones. Older ones I love the best from the 1950's.
I also love my mechanical Walmart version of the Brothers. I hear so many comments about how bad they are, but, I don't think lots of the comments come from people who even use them!!! I am VERY happy with all three that I use. One is over 8 years old and has given me zero problems and sews through anything. I also have three vintage singers and like them, but really do enjoy my Brother.
My embroidery machine and my every day sewing machine and my new quilting machine are all Brothers and I love them! I tend to agree with you~
When it seems like the world is falling to pieces remember that the pieces are falling into place. We are nearing closer to the End Times.
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