Overwhelmed by machine choices
08-29-2012, 10:09 AM
#21
Member
Join Date: Jun 2012
Location: Washington, DC
Posts: 85
I just got a Singer Quantum 9960 for just over $300 on Amazon. It works wonderfully so far - quiet, fast, and it has a ton of decorative stitches to choose from. If you're not doing any free motion quilting, I think this would work great for all of the other things you do!
08-30-2012, 02:43 AM
#23
Power Poster
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Somewhere
Posts: 15,506
Well, I'm going to weigh in on getting a real nice vintage sewing machine. You can get one very inexpensively in most any city if you are patient. There are so many out there and many run just fine but may need a little cleaning. If you search this site you can find a massive amount of information on cleaning and fixing up a vintage machine. We have a whole section of QB dedicated to vintage machines. Browse that before you spend good money on a new plastic machine which will not last more than about 5 years with out breaking.
08-30-2012, 03:02 AM
#24
Super Member
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: Midwest
Posts: 5,051
I agree with BellaBoo. Start by making a list of your 'needs'; 'wants'; 'dreams'. Then let your fingers do alot of walking on your keyboard. I use a spreadsheet for this type of effort. A list of features down the side and then the various machines across the top. Color code your categories if that helps. Then just put checks, x's or whatever in each spot that the machines you select in the appropriate boxes. Put the price on the bottom. Then see which machines fit your needs and your budget. And certainly consider the dealer(s) you have local to you. Test drive the machines that best fit your needs and see how you get along with the dealer and all of their staff. Talk to the person who actually does the service and repairs on the machines. Talk to a couple different repair folks if you can. See if you can determine if they are 'brand loyal' to the dealer they are working for or if they give you an honest opinion regardless of brand. And don't be afraid to consider a used machine. I know there are a few older high end machines on CL in my general vicinity for some really good prices. As long as I could make arrangements with the seller to have it ok'd by the service person of my choice, I wouldn't hesitate. It really shouldn't be any different than buying a used car from that perspective. All that said, I bought a new Viking Platinum when I was in the market a number of years ago now. I do all the same type sewing that you mentioned and have never had an issue with it. More $$ then than your current budget but wouldn't hesitate to recommend the brand.
Once I figure out what features etc I want, I find myself gravitating to the machines that ffer that and one that that has good ergonomics. If it feels comfortable for me to sit and sew, that helps me make a decision. Dont just watch a dealer demo the machine, tell them that you want to do a test sew. When I was shopping for a machine, the dealer rarely offered to let me sit down and sew on it. I should not have to ask to do so.
You will be spending hours with the machine...you have to feel comfortable with it. Like buying a car, get familiar with different models you have determined to be in your top 3-4 contenders . Don't rush into your Decision. Once you decide what machine to purchase...."sleep on it". The next day, If you feel that you have made the right one, then start negotiating price with the dealer. They have wiggle room on the price. Don't be shy!
Oh, check out Pattern Review to read machine reviews of the ones you are considering. And search this board for input.
Sandy
Last edited by Sandygirl; 08-30-2012 at 03:13 AM.
08-30-2012, 03:14 AM
#25
Super Member
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: Australia
Posts: 4,116
I have a check list, and narrow the choices as to whether the machine meets the check list. My list (for me) is:
1. Able to lower feed dogs.
2. Stop/start button as well as foot control
3. Variable foot pressure
4. Thread cutter
5. Good button hole method
6. Needle up/down function
7. Twin needle sewing
8. Good needle threader
9. Wide harp - 9" or more
That's about it for me - if it has all of those things it is considered.
1. Able to lower feed dogs.
2. Stop/start button as well as foot control
3. Variable foot pressure
4. Thread cutter
5. Good button hole method
6. Needle up/down function
7. Twin needle sewing
8. Good needle threader
9. Wide harp - 9" or more
That's about it for me - if it has all of those things it is considered.
08-30-2012, 03:54 AM
#26
Super Member
Join Date: May 2011
Location: Phoenix, AZ.
Posts: 1,342
The advice given has been excellent, I can't add anymore to it, but have fun shopping!! And let us know how your search is going. Oh I do have one suggestion, ask about floor models. You can save a bunch of money, and still get the warranty, and all the parts, manual, etc with it.
08-30-2012, 04:15 AM
#27
Senior Member
Join Date: Oct 2011
Location: Barling, Arkansas
Posts: 828
I just recently bought a MC6500 from my local shop, it was a trade in and I love it, I also tried out a 7700 they have on special right now. I would love to have it not in my budget at this time. I think later on I might get one. I love Janome Machines, they are great. I had one for years and never had any problems with it.
08-30-2012, 04:25 AM
#29
Junior Member
Join Date: Oct 2011
Location: Madison, Ohio
Posts: 226
I now have four machines in my collection: My 1972 Bernina 830 Record that I still use daily. (It's a workhorse). I have a BabyLock that I like for free motion. Now for the important info: I bought a used Bernina 1230 that is awesome for piecing. Also have a Bernina 165 Sewing/Embroidery machine that I use mainly for embroidering names. For your $700 you can get an awesome used Bernina. I would not even consider buying a new machine. There is good value for your bucks in getting a quality used machine. I've bought my used machines on ebay and am totally satisfied with both of them. Good luck.
08-30-2012, 04:27 AM
#30
Junior Member
Join Date: Oct 2011
Location: Madison, Ohio
Posts: 226
PS: Have someone craft an acrylic table for your machine regardless of what machine you decide upon. Go to Home Depot, purchase an 18 x 24 sheet of 1/4" acrylic and have someone make the cutout and add legs cut from a wood dowel. I made my own for each of my machines. Wouldn't dream of sewing without these awesome table extensions!!
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