The handy stitcher ~ as seen on TV
 

Hi Ladies,

My Dad wants my opinion of a portable sewing machine he saw on TV. I went to the website and watched the video but I don't know if it's worthwhile or junk. Has anyone purchased or used one? If so, will you please give me your opinion?
Thanks,
ChrisDee

Is this it? http://www.amazon.com/As-Seen-On-Han.../dp/B000G1G7XM

It gets really bad reviews on Amazon. What does your Dad want to use it for? I would think it's useful only for the occasional ripped hem.

I have one - it does a chain stitch only and not sure how they make it look so easy in the video because you have to hold it in one hand and run it along what you want it to sew. (There is a small plastic sewing machine that is easier to use.) I kept it only because I love gadgets, even if I can't get them to work easily. The big questions is, what does he want it to do?

These are generally a piece of junk, not very sturdy, awkward to use and sort of an aggravation. Get a REAL sewing machine or sew by hand.

Go buy your dad an inexpensive sewing machine at Walmart and teach him how to do the basics, he'll be happier!

A friend of mine has one of these and asked me to "fix it" because I'm a "sewing machine expert" (no, I'm not!).

I was not at all impressed. It's a chain stitch machine, and I couldn't get it to work properly at all. Seems like even if it worked perfectly it would be incredibly awkward to use and difficult to get a decent stitch length. Like trying to FMQ a straight hem.

I agree with the others - a real machine is much more useful and less frustrating. I see decent basic machines at the thrift shops for around $20 all the time - I would go that route. Even hand stitching would be less hassle, I think!

They are not worth the fire cracker to blow them up. A friend of mine sent for one. With the cost of it and the S&H she could have purchased a new Singer at Wally World. She sent it back in Feb. and is still waiting for her 'money back' guarantee.

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It is like the "Smart Stitcher" sold many years ago.
I have one and have never used it.
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Not worth the money. I agree with labtechty, buy a Walmart machine instead.

a waste of money I don't know how I could have been sucked in without seeing a demo, I am hoping that the bobbins will fit one of my three sewing machines. don't buy it.