Machine Maintenence Blues
 

I finally bit the bullet and took my 6600 in to be serviced. She wasn't behaving when fmq (tension) and it was time for a checkup anyway. But now what do I do? I don't have a backup machine and am simply lost. I already have my next quilt cut and ready to go, I guess I will have to start cutting strips for the one after. I don't do applique as I really despise hand sewing. Maybe it's time to cleanup and re-organize the sewing room....LOL

Yep a good cleaning and organizing is the way to go. I finally bit the bullet years ago and got a second machine ( used for $40.00) so when had to be without my main machine I still had some capability. Not that it my favorite machine.. once I get used to one machine I don't like to switch back and forth .. but just knowing I can still sew is very comforting.

Sorry that your machine is not well!!!!!! This delema is a good reason to have a back-up machine. You might consider getting one or maybe a friend has one you can use in a pinch! Probably with the cost of reapir you may want to delay the buying of a new machine but perhaps you could check Craigs list for a used machine. My machine was just in the shop for 2 weeks. I am really glad I had another machine! Remember--- A clean house is the sign of a mis-spent life!!!!!!!!!

when you pick up your machine, ask the dealer or repair person if they have any used machines available

I always take 2machines to quilt classes,in case one gets sick. I get more upset if my sewing machine has problems,than if the car does!

I would get a smaller cheaper back up machine for this purpose. I have my cheap walmart brother for classes, travel, and back up when machine is in the shop. My dealer can take up to 3 weeks if they have a lot of machines in for servicing

Now is a good time to look for an older machine like a Singer 301. Perfect second machine. I take two machines when I'm going to a class or workshop. More then likely someone will have machine problems and can use it. Many forget their power cords! I did that once and it made me feel so bad. If a nice quilter hadn't let me use her back up machine I would have been there all day with no machine to use. I now take an extra machine so I can be the nice quilter. LOL.

Terrific time to clean and organize. Hope your machine is not in the hospital long. Really is great to have a back up machine, saves from having so much downtime.

Buy another machine! There are tons of homeless old gems out there, waiting for a little TLC...

Ask them to give you a loaner. A lot of times they will loan a new model to get you to like it and want to buy it. It's like a car, most places will give you a loaner for free.

You know, it isn't too late to ask if they have a loaner. I suspect they might. Just call and ask. I hate to think of a quilter not being able to quilt, and the owner of the repair shop may feel the same way. It would certainly be a good business move!! (If you lived close to me, I'd lend you my spare...)

Dina

You can spend time calling all the thrifts stores in the area to see if they have a sewing machine for sale - if it is in your budget. For me, not having a spare machine when one was in for repair would have me shopping for more fabric!!

. Our guild has a shelf of machines for members to use if they are needed. Someone will find a great used machine at a yard sale or thrift shop to good to pass up and bring it to guild for anyone that needs one to use or borrow. We have two 301s, one Kenmore and two Janome Jems in our closet now. We sell all but four of the machines at our yearly sale if we have over four. Or donate them to Scouts, 4-H or Women's Shelter if they don't sell.

I agree with finding a good used machine. But I make appointments for my machines and know the pick up date before I drop it off. Always just a couple days.

Save a vintage machine! $20.

Check out your local Craig's List (Kijiji here in Canada). I've found a 301 Singer for $35, two Featherweights for $60 and a Singer 201 with a great cabinet for free. These were all from family members trying to clean up estates. My son who buys a lot with Kijiji says not to worry about buying machines from this source as no one sells sewing machines except other sewers or their poor families trying to clean up after they are gone.