What type of sewing machine lives at your house?
Posted by Ashley 
233 Comments
Well, you all know the machine that has served me well for 3 years now.
Click here if you don’t.
I get asked frequently what type of sewing machine I use but every time I answer, I think….“Gee, that doesn’t help much. It’s only one type and one person and one preference.” (oh, and one small budget…..believe me, there are pricey machines that I would love to have living at my house. If you know of any swanky machines looking for a place to live, call me….)
So, I was thinking…..let’s ask the rest of you.
Then I can refer people to this post. And,Why not? You all collectively have a lot more advice than I do.
So share it with me. I’m actually really curious what others like.
- Brand and model of sewing machine.
- Your favorite feature of your sewing machine.
- Something that bugs you about your machine.
- Price range
I’ll start:
- Singer 7444
- It has a wide stitch selection. I love having options. Oh, and I love that it’s computerized.
- The button-hole setting is very finicky. Sometimes it makes me so steamin’ mad. And I mean steamin’. Grrrr……that is the ONE thing that actually makes me want a new one.
- $200
Okay, if you have a minute…….go on and share.
Don’t be shy.
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Full Skirts with Trimmed Tulle peeking out
Janome 8077
Internal metal parts and some really pretty stitch options
I really don't know yet… I just got it for Christmas and have only been practicing with it so far
I think it was around $300?
Brother CS-6000i
I LOVE the fact that it has over 50 stitch options, some of them are very fancy and cute!
I don't really have anything that makes me mad about it, cause when it freaks out most of the time it's something I have done to mess it up.
$175-$200
I have a Bernina 1008. It really does not have a lot of bells and whistles. It basically just have need for the straight stitch and zig zag. I have also used the zipper, buttonhole, and some decorative stitches.
THe only thing that bugs me about my machine is when it needs a tune up…man it groans and moans and lets me know its time for some tlc…It has only happened a couple of times in 3 yrs.
I have not a clue what the price range is…I received it as a christsmas present from my parents. It was used, but barely used. I would definitely go to a sewing machine shop and let them know you are interested in a good machine that is a trade in. All I know is they got a great deal on it.
I'm a beginner so I'll be difficult….all I know is that I have an older Singer (probably 20-30 years old) that I bought off Craigslist. I haven't used all of the stitches and stuff yet since some of it scares me….
But in the month or two I have had it, it has served me well (as I swear and rip seams) :)
1. Brother SE270D
2. Dummyproof time savers like automatic threader, bobbin loader, built in scissors & digital troubleshooting guide AND does embroidery (haven't tried that out though)
3."Safety" feature that freezes machine if something gets stuck
4. Got it for $255
1.Baby lock Decorators choice
2.Lots of stitch choices, reliable, fast, computerized functions and the easy button holes.
3.It's kind of whimpy. It doesn't handle TONS of fabric well. But I think I'm a little tough on it sometimes.
4. $500 ish
my dream sewing machine is a Bernina. Those things are tough!
I have a Kenmore 18221
It has basic stitches and some decorative stitch options.
Nothing bugs me so far I'm loving it!
The price range is $99-$130 (depending on what sale is happening).
1. Singer 'Pixie'
2. 8 different stitch options, small, purple (!!)
3. I tried sewing on some stretchy material and it was just not working – but, I think that was more the user than the machine…
4. $40-$45 (Wal-Mart)
For being a major beginner in the land of sewing, I really didn't want to spend much mony at all, and only happened to buy this machine because it was on sale…and for what I do with it, I love it! It sews cotton fabrics like a dream, and seems to be very 'idiot proof'! (That, and because it was inexpensive, I'm not afraid I'm going to break it, which means I actually use it!)
husqvarna Emerald 183
like all the different stitches, can also stich letters (only one style, but it is nice),
when I put down the feed dog, it sometimes takes a few try and error to put it back.
But that is the only small thing.
And I love the fact that I can choose the speed and that it is computerised.
Love the machine. Costs around 600 euro.
1. Brother CS-6000i
2. I am a VERY beginner sewer, and it's perfect for me, very easy to use. It has a lot of different stitches, which are fun, and it comes with a free motion quilting foot, which I haven't used yet, but I am excited to try it out.
3. At first, I had a lot of problems with the bobbin getting stuck and the thread getting caught and breaking, but I think it was user error with a tension setting.
4. It was a gift, but I think it was around $150-$200
http://www.elaiswhatisay.blogspot.com
brother lx3125
i love that its very easy to use(i'm a beginner-never used a sewinig machine before)
i wish it had the automatic threader
it was $54(its a referb)@ overstock.com
1. Viking Husqvarna 190 Selectronic. It's at least 20 years old. My mom had one like it that I used in my teen years (she still has it). My parents wanted to get me jewelry for my college graduation gift, and practical gal that I am, I asked for a sewing machine instead. And it was used at the time.
2. I love that it's simple, especially by today's computerized standards! I'd much rather embroider by hand than by machine. It's a workhorse, and I dread the day it breaks and I have to wade through all the fanciness that's out there today.
3. Last year I sent it in for a tuneup, and I *swear* the neutral needle position is a little to the left of where it used to be!
4. No idea what it cost. You probably can't get one anymore.
Hi Holly! I think you and I are the only people with the Viking 190! I inherited from my mother a few years ago. I am teaching myself to sew and quilt. The Viking manual is completely, completely useless. If I have questions, can I ask you? I don’t have any in particular now, but it would be nice to have someone to talk with if I need it. I just discovered the few decorative stitches on the left, in green….I never really paid attention to them….who knew you could slide that stitch length selector all the way to the left?! I felt like I won the lottery! Glad I found them b/c I can’t seem to get my zigzag tension right, so I’m using one of them for 154 applique circles that I’m making for my first quilt project. :O I get grandiose ideas sometimes that backfire. I need to have my machine serviced, but I’m using it every day, so I hate to lose my momentum! Anyway, have a great day. If you don’t mind questions, please email me at krschneider@sbcglobal.net. It sounds like you sew a lot and therefore, know a lot more about the machine than I do, but if I can help you in any way, I’d be happy to do so.
—Kim
Brother innovis-40
I love that this machine is quiet, has an awesome button holer, and should last me a long time!
Nothing-absolutely nothing bad about it.
around $400
Ha ha … this assumes I have only one machine!
1. 1920's Singer (electric with knee pedal power)
2. Simple and easy; never any tension problems – I use it only for piecing quilts since it only does a straight stitch in one direction (although there is a fancy buttonhole attachment contraption)
3. Doesn't have a backstitch – I'd use it much more if it did
4. No idea. I think I found mine for $10 at a yard sale about 20 years ago.
1. 1980's Bernina – have no idea what model. I traded my bare bones 1990's Singer for it to a wealthy family friend who doesn't know how to sew but didn't want to be without a machine.
2. Lots of fancy stitches and feet
3. Sometimes has tension issues, especially with machine quilting. Also the bobbin winder is kind of broken so I wind all my bobbins on my Singer.
4. No clue, either what it cost back in 1982 when it was probably retailing, or now to buy used.
I don't do much sewing beyond chain stitching quilt pieces and the occasional machine quilting project, so I actually use the Singer more often. I had to pull out the Bernina when making the last few Cathedral Windows quilts I did because I needed to go backwards and forwards several times when sewing the base squares. These machines do everything I need them to. My mom has one of those fancy Husqvarna Vikings that she puts computer disks into and it sews her embroidery patterns while she works on her serger or standard machine, but with just my quilting and the occasional basic craft, I'm happy with what I've got.
I have a Bernina 440.
I love the needle up/down and the knee lift…
I wish it had an automatic thread cutter…
I can't remember exactly how much it costs, cause I traded in another Bernina and then added some cash…
Janome QC (Quilters Companion) 6125. I don't think you can get this specific model any more. It's a good entry level quilting machine.
What I love – lots of stitches, it came with everything you need to quilt, which is awesome.
What I don't like – it's a bit clunky.
Cost – I think it was $700 (CND).
I wish I had a sewing machine!
1. Janome Sew Precise
2. LED screen tells you what your stitch length/width needs to be when you change your stitch setting = no looking it up in the manual every single time
3. One-step button-hole…argh! Tear my hair out frustrating!!
4. $350, I think (I got it on sale)
Janome (2 years old, step up from basic model)
I really like the automatic button hole and the drop in bobbin.
I wish that it had a curvy stitch.
I think it was around $300.
My Grandmother is an Expert seamstress and she recommends Janome as a good "inexpensive" machine.
I don't have one, but this post is definitely so helpful! I'm thinking about getting one soon.
I still have the Kenmore my parents bought me for graduation back in the early 80's. Have no idea what it cost.
The thing I hate about it is having to buy the needles through Sears. I wonder if they even still make them? The last time I bought needles was probably 20 years ago and I stocked up… BIG TIME.
I love that it still sews. I use it more on my scrapbook pages now, rather than sewing fabric, though I still need to do the occasional mending.
I'm going to need needles soon. Paper really dulls them fast.
You DO NOT have to buy your needles from Sears. Most home sewing machines take a common needle size available everywhere. You should change your needles often, that can make a big difference in your stitching quality. I buy Schmetz by the 100 when on sale at the dealer but you can get them 1/2 off @ Joann’s w/cpn or at Walmart or online. I have about 50 machines including new and old Kenmores and all my machines take this same needle system. Best wishes.
husqvarna viking rose sewing/embroidery machine with quilting attachments
nice included stitches, super smooth and quiet
nothing bugs me, it's a great machine
it's discontinued, you can get it for $300-$500 on ebay now
I own a Singer 2263.
It is pretty basic, my husband bought it for me.
It is perfect for the beginners!
I LOVE it!
It was $100.
Kenmore 19233
Love having many options, especially the needle-down feature and love the computerization.
Wish it went faster.
$450
Also new Brother serger 1034D. So far so good…it just scares me a bit!
Kenmore…actually I am not sure what type of Kenmore but the basic one from K-Mart I bought almost 4 years ago.
It has all the basic stuff I need and it has not broken down once in 4 years or needed a tune-up…and I have been hard on it.
It is REALLY basic. Only like 10 stitch options.
$50.
Jeans Machine by White
I like that it works for the most part.
We bought this about 8 years ago when we were pretty poor. The sales lady told me that "Jeans" was just the name of the machine, and that didn't mean it was for sewing jeans. I hoped it would anyway. It was about all we could afford. This machine does not like heavy cloth. It's so frustrating! I do a lot of sewing with heavy cloth, and it clogs up and breaks needles all the time. I can't even tell you how many broken needles I've had. Sometimes I'll break 4 or 5 on just one project, even when I'm trying to be careful. The button hole function doesn't work either. One of these days…..
It was a long time ago, so I'm not sure how much it cost. Probably between $100 and $200.
*Sear's Kenmore 1316
*It really handles thicker projects with ease.Its a heavy duty metal machine and very plain and simple to use.
*Wish it had more stitches.
*I don't know how much it cost. Its a machine from the 80's and my mom got it at a grage sale a long time ago for $15.
1. Bernina 940 (i think)
2. It was my grandmother's machine.
3. Haven't found anything yet.
4. Free (see #2).
Bernina Record 930e. It was my mom's and you can't buy them anymore.
I love that it is easy to use and doesn't get stuck easily.
I just wish I knew how to use some of the fancier options. Also, I don't have a manual so I have to skim the PDF every time I want to learn something.
I don't know how much they run for now (used), but I get the impression it was top-of-the-line in the '80s.
White 2037 (beats my sewing genie)
It has enough stitch options for a novice like me!
I just had to get it fixed because the tension is constantly getting messed up
Around $350
Kenmore 15618
This is a strong, sturdy machine, it handles all kinds of weights and thicknesses of fabrics, it is the best buttonholer I have ever had in a machine, it came with a walking foot which I use a lot!
On the downside I have always had problems with the tension, and after owning it for four years I seem to have run it into the ground (it does get a lot of use though and I do not take it in for "check-ups" so perhaps it is fixable.)
Cost – around $150 (Canadian)
I am still learning about my machine. I know it's an old bernina– like at least 30 years old and runs like a champ. I love it because I know it will run forever if I take good care of it, and it's got all METAL PARTS!
price $50 love the DI!
Bernina 220
It has lots of stitch options, runs smoothly and sews even smoother. I {heart} this machine. Her name is Gigi and she is the newest member of our family!
I wish it had the turtle and hare option (speed control dial) But it isn't that big of deal.
$799-950
I have a Brother CE-5000PWR (Project Runway limited edition). I love that it is computerized and was still really inexpensive. Also it has a lot of stitch options. I hate that if something gets stuck or whatever the machine freezes (it happened in the middle of a buttonhole and I could't pick up where I left off after I fixed it). I bought it at walmart after my Singer bit the dust. It was around $150-$200. It was the cheapest digital machine I could find.
I am having the same problem would you mind telling me how you fixed the freeze up or Error I think it is 6 Thanks
Type: Baby Lock Xscape; Favorite feature: It's only 12 pounds — very lightweight — but it is a workhorse!!! It has 66 different stitches; Bugs me: Nothing. I love it! Price: Around $350-$400.
This machine is meant to be traveler — hence its light weight, but I use it all the time and love it!
(The other day Jodi and I had lunch together and made the connection that you are her sister. I had visited your blog just a few days before for the first time! Small world.)
- Suzanne
http://justanotherhangup.blogspot.com/
Brother (something or other it was grandma's)
I love that it works (and beat the heck out of hand sewing) and was free.
I battle the bobbin (set in kind) regulary, and the spool holder broke before I got it so the spool falls off regulary.
I don't think they make it anymore so it is priceless. :)
1. Baby Lock Design Pro (pretty basic)
2. Love the threader feature, so handy, so fast!
3. There isn't a speed adjustment, which would be really nice for some things when I am trying to be a little more cautious and go slower. My foot just doesn't keep as steady sometimes.
4. $300ish (I have an awesome grandma-in-law who takes sewing very seriously so she helped pitch in with my husband for an anniversary gift our first year!)
Singer 403A
I love that it's not a piece of junk plastic (been there, done that!). It's totally old school, but it gets the job done and is still going strong.
I do wish it had more bells and whistles, but despite it's age, it actually has a lot of stitches and attachments.
I bought it used on ebay for about $75, and that included shipping.
Baby Lock Allure
I can sew ANYTHING with it. I have sewn 5 layers of leather and it acted as if it was nothing. Plus it's an embroidery machine.
There is nothing about it I don't like, I thank my husband for it every week.
Price, ummmmmm…. much more than I would pay for a machine myself. But totally worth it.
I have Singer Inspiration and I think it is perfect for a beginner because of the easy top loading bobbin and it is priced low for around a $100.
Juki Industrial sewing machine
I love it. It can sew through anything. It's actually not as loud as I thought it would be when I got it. And I've used it on many more different types of fabrics than I would have thought too, knits, lightweight satins and leather. You can wined another bobbin while you sew on the side of the machine.
Downside is it only does straight stitch.
I bought it for $300 off someone who was moving out of the country but I think it retails for closer to $600.
I also have a serger and Singer home sewing maching. I use it for the decorative stitchs and buttonholes (it does super easy buttonholes) but I choose my Juki over it whenever I can.
I have a Brother CE5000 PRW. My Boyfriend got it for me for my birthday – and I had no idea what I was looking for, but I liked that it was the "project runway edition" and it got decent reviews all over.
I really haven't had any problems with it, but I wouldn't really know any better? It's a great beginner machine with a ton of stitches and really easy-to-read instructions, all digital, ran about $140.
I've made a bunch of "beginner" projects with it, blankets, pillows and the like – and it's never given me much hassle!
1. I have a Series 8 Bernina 820
2. I LOVE the extra large sewing space, the needle up/down, the thread cutters, extra large bobbin, speed control, really there is so much to love about my machine those are just the TOP ones.
3. My only complaint is that is didn't come with a straight stitch needle plate. I really would like to get one and I think for the price it should have come with one…JMO
4. It was a little pricy, but well worth every penny.
I also have a Singer Ingenuity. I started out with this one, but quickly found it didn't do the things I wanted it to do. I still use it every now and again, and it has been a good machine. It came with all the quilting accessories, and I LOVED that! It was around $300 I think.
Brother LS-2125i
I love that it's basic because I'm still and intermediate sewer.
The thread comes loose atleast once every time I sew.
$100!!
It's a Brother. I call it Satan. It's a year old. Approx $150.00 I like that it gets the job done with limited muss and fuss. Most of the time. There's this knotting issue. With the bogging. It makes me crazy, but I am fairly certain the fault lies with the user and not the machine…
Brother CS6000i
Really easy to to use. Works flawlessly most of the time and it has tons of stitch options. :-)
It does have a small problem going through thicker materials (ie – many layers of fabric being sewn together), but I fixed that by buying a heavy duty needle used for sewing jeans.
I bought mine for $160 from Amazon.
I have a Bernina Artista 185
It is FABULOUS!! It does embroidery, lots of different stitch options, it's really quiet, automatic thread cutter, computerized so I can download embroidery patterns, I could go on all day.
Nothing really bugs me about it. Really!
I don't know how much it cost but it was probably a lot. My mother-in-law gave it to me when she bought a new one. Sweet woman, I love her to pieces!
Type: Singer Ingenuity
Like: Computerized stitching (70 stitches), easy to use, came with a quilting extension
Dislike: Gathers fabric dust inside easily
Price: $200-250
Older Kenmore, Singer Futura, Brother 1034D serger
The first was my first machine after I got married… liked the buttonholer, and it has a good bit of stitches. Price???? it was almost 14 years ago, but I'm sure it was pretty cheap. It has held up great, I still use it, and its just finally starting to act like it could use a tune up.
Second machine is for embroidery, but also sews beautifully. I love using my ruffler foot on it. I think they run around $600. Wish I would have gotten a bigger/better embroidery machine – the hoops are odd sizes, but since it sews as well it will at least replace my Kenmore when it takes its last breath.
Last – my serger, I just got it a few months ago and I was really wanting a serger, so anything would have made me happy. Not the fanciest serger out there, but it was less than $200. I've been very happy with how easy mine is and am loving it.
(I also have an antique singer in a wood carry case, but its just for decoration – and my 6 year old daughter has a tiny little White Sew Quick machine that she adores using)
Now…. if I could just find the time to actually use them more. :)
Brand and model of sewing machine: Babylock Decorators Choice
Your favorite feature of your sewing machine: The auto back stitch/thread cutter
Something that bugs you about your machine: Absolutely nothing. I adore my machine.
Price range: $700-ish
My machine is a Kenmore that my husband bought me about 13 years ago.
My favorite thing about it is that it's simple and it still works and I've never taken it in to be tuned up!
It bugs me that the bobbin winder can be tempermental and that is sometimes come unthreaded for will for no apparent reason.
I think this was somewhere between $125-150 when we bought it new.
Brother CE-5000PRW
several stitch options, computerized, very easy to use.
This is my first machine and I had never touched a sewing machine before last year so all(haven't been many) probablems I've had are because I did something wrong.
It was on sale for $120 (I think)
1. Singer 5050C
2. It has a wide stitch selection. Yet it is simple.
3. I haven't come across anything I don't like. I've owned it for 7 years or so now.
4. $150
1. Kenmore 385?
I have had this machine for 16 years and have only serviced it once.
2. It is just a super easy to use machine. My mom bought it for me as a going off to college gift.
3. It is loud. This doesn't really bug me as much as my husband pointing out the fact that my machine is loud does.
4. Probable $100 or less.
1. Husqvarna Huskylock 936
2. I bought this machine because it was supposed to be one of the easier machines to thread. And it isn't that bad. I bet if I used it more often I would be a champ at it. and a machine that cuts as you sew?? Amazing! Love that about it.
3. I feel like a need a few lessons to fully know how to use this machine. But it has two stiches that I absolutely love to use that makes finishing off clothing look so much nicer.
4. I think I paid about $1400
On my wish list…..an embroidery machine.
I have a Baby Lock BL-40 (Grace)
I pretty much love everything about it, but especially the one step buttonholer.
I wish it had automatic thread cutter on it
It was $399
Just bought it 2 months ago and I'm so happy with it!
My mom gave me her old sewing machine. It's a Singer Stylist 6544. It's about 30 years old but it gets the job done. I don't like how loud it is and it doesn't have very many options. I'd love to have a new sewing machine. It's on my wishlist.
justenoughstyle.etsy.com
justenoughstyle.blogspot.com
I have an Elna 6600 Quilter's Dream 2 (which I saved up for and debated for a long time before splurging on. I would skip little things like eating out and coffee etc. and say it was going toward my sewing machine purchase). It has a lot of fun features, but my favorite thing about it is that I don't have any more "steamin' mad" moments at my machine. My last machine (also an Elna) had a problem with the tension and it would drive me nuts. I seem to have blocked the price from my mind, but I think it was somewhere around $1,000.
–Brother SE350
–LOVE that it does embroidery (designs and letters) and you can download/buy all different pictures and fonts. it has a needle threader, thread cutter, touch screen, and a ton of other features. Not too hard to use either!
–really only thing that has been an issue is every once in awhile if you don't do the thread just right it will pull too tight and mess up the tension.
–around $350
1. Bernina Activa 125
2. Cute extra stitches, simple and easy to use – and does everything I need (except serge!)
3. Never had a problem with it (other than breaking needles when I sew over pins . . .)
4. Around $600 (my parents bought it for a wedding present.)
Kenmore Mini Ultra.
I love that it's small. It's a 3/4 size machine with a full size engine.
There's really nothing that I don't love about it. It has served me very well.
It costs about $100.
Brother HE 240
I love that it does embroidery too! And it has a USB port to connect to my computer, so creating designs and sending them to my machine is very easy.
The thread tension is VERY picky. It has taken me 9 months to perfect it and it is different for each function.
I spent about $350 for it.
1. Viking Designer 1
2. the "fix" button (no backstitch required) and the "cut" button and the presser foot comes down when you start and lifts up when you stop automatically. makes me lazy and I love it!
3. it makes me mad that I haven't used the embroidery as much as I should have
4. $1200 refurbished…but shhh….my husband gets embarrassed when I tell people how much I spent. And again, I really should be embroidering every day with the price I paid for it!
Bernina!! I have had a few and love, Love LOVE them!! No jammed bobbins–runs forever. It will be the last machine you have to buy. I have even purchased 2nd hand and the are awesome!!
I have an old industrial 830; a basic one (I don't know the #) that I got second hand. My daughter got one for her wedding and my other daughter got one in high school with her money then. All run so great–never a problem!!! I am a true blue BERNINA lover!!! It will last your entire life!!!
1. Bernina Activa 220
2. I love how easy it is to use as a beginner and that there are a variety of stitches.
3. Haven't had it long enough to discover any problems.
4. $700-$800 I think. It was a christmas present – My in laws took pity on me since I had been sewing on a Singer my mom let me borrow. She bought in 1961 that only did a straight stitch.
I also have an Elna Quilters Dream but I bought it for the features not quilting. I killed 2 machines in college sewing nonstop projects, I have had this machine for 9 years now and no issues. My husband and I move every year and I haven't needed to get it serviced, yes I know I should but I use canned air on it every time when I am done. It is my baby. I also spent around $1000.
Machines I have used:
Several older(1960 and 2000) and newer Singers, I killed them both.
White, this is my moms and is almost 30 years old. It still works great and even for an older machine has some great features.
Bernina, numerous models. I used them in college in the sewing labs, in the theater department in college and for traveling broadway shows. They are ok but not as smooth as my Elna. This brand in my opinion is just better known, but not better.
My Elna has an automatic buttonholder, put the button in it and it pretty much is done. It has an automatic threader but I rarely use it. It does some great embroidery stitches I love this machine! I also have a Necchi serger that I am not sold on.
Sorry that was so wordy, I spent a lot of time trying out everyone I knew's machines before I splurged on mine. That is what I would suggest.
Brand and model: Singer 776 Stylist (I bought it in high school with money I received when my grandmother died)
Favorite feature: it's strong and sturdy
Something that bugs me:
Nothing really bugs me (except I wish I could buy a $800 Bernina!)
Price range: it was around $200 in the mid 70's
Husqvarna Automatic
It's som damn good looking! From the 60's, green and elegant, I love it! And it makes very nice looking seams as well, right stitching and zig-zaging that is.
It doesn't sew seams that works for stretchy fabrics. That's why I ordered an overlocker (today actually)
I think I payed 300 swedish kronor, thats about 40 USD.
Brother Innovis 1200.
It's a sewing/embroidery machine in one so I guess the best part about is being able to "kill 2 birds with one stone" haha!
I purchased this machine mainly for the embroidery part but since then have upgraded to a Brother PR620 commerical machine so now I use my Innovis mostly for general sewing. It has an array of beautiful decorative stitches. However, this machine has good days and bad. Some days I want to beat it with a bat but other days it sews like a dream!
Innovis cost around $1200.00
PR620 $7000.00
Bernina 830, born in 1976.
Good workhorse of a machine. It's getting pretty old though.
I bought it used about 12 years ago for $450.
I like its reliability and sturdiness.
It makes me mad that it's old and many parts are no longer available. I need to be very good to it.
I am also offering a comfortable home to a swanky, homeless machine.
1. bernina aurora 430
2. it has 4 thread cutters! plus an optional embroidery module (that i purchased!). also, it's computerized and has tons of stitches.
3. it doesn't have a drop in bobbin
4. more than i care to admit ;o) but worth EVERY penny!
Brother CS-6000
favorite thing: the button hole maker! It is so simple!!!
something that bugs me: nothing really, I usually do something wrong.
Price: $50!!!!!! I bought mine refurbished from a brother dealer and it has been the BEST $50 I have ever spent :)
1. 1961 Singer Slant-O-Matic… old school! But it works like a champ :)
2. It has some great stitching settings, but I never use them!
3. It's in a stinking table! I can't ever bring it over to a friend's house for the day. No fun!
4.I found it at a yard sale for $15 about two years ago – I've seen them on Craigslit and eBay for around $200-$300
I have a Bernina. It is old and had no other distinguising model number.
It sews like a dream and gives me no trouble.
The cord is old and doesn't like to stay in the outlet. There is no button-hole feature.
My mom picked mine up at a garage sale and there's no way she would've paid more than $20. She had it refurbished.
Mom has had an industrial-quality Bernina for 30 years and loves it and loves the brand.
brother cs8072
only problems with this have beenn user error.
funny story on how if got it-one decemeber i open the trunk of hubbys car and there is a sewing machine! so there was my christmas gift. so to make him feel better, i started hinting that id really like one for christmas. he felt so good about himself-and that has been 7 years and i havent told him the truth!
1. Babylock Espire
2. I LOVE the automatic thread cutter
3. I wish it had a sensor to tell me when the bobbin was out
4. $1200 (8 years ago)
Brother 50 Stitch Computerized Sewing Machine-Limited Edition Project Runway
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Brother-50-Stitch-Computerized-Sewing-Machine-Limited-Edition-Project-Runway/8798084
I like that is computerized and easy to use.
What bugs me is that it doesn't remember my stitch setting when I turn off the machine.. But then this is probably a good thing too so I don't leave it on say zig zag stitch when I need straight stitch.
My machine is $139.97
Hubby got it christmas 2008 as a gift for me when I was learning to sew.
1. Singer Futura (CE-350), Singer confidence (7470), and Janome 8077
2. I love all three, especially the Janome… That's my machine for the RV. Runs so smooth and quiet! all have awesome stitch options. Also love the speed setting on the Janome.
3. The Futura is a finicky machine
4. $700, $400, $300 (both singers were factory refurb models)
I have a 35 year old Kenmore that still works perfectly. It has served me well all these years. I love the fact that it is metal – not plastic – a heavy machine. I dislike the buttonhole maker – it has templates and is hard to use. I cannot remember what I paid for this machine back in the 70's but I know it was not much! I would not trade this machine for anything – too many memories.
Oh my…I have two now.
1. Janome Threadbanger TB30
2. Real basic and easy machine to use, with decent number of stitches
3. I didn't know it at the time, but I disliked not having a threadcutter on the machine. I found out later how much I hate cutting threads.
4. Got it for about $600 but I think it can be had for about half that now.
Annnnnd the other…
1. Janome MC11000SE
2. I have only had this machine a few weeks, but so far I just sit and stare while it embroiders, i LOVE playing with all the available sewing stitches, and one of these days (this weekend?) I am going to sandwich some scraps together and watch the quilting functions. Seriously I can push a button and it does almost everything for me.
3. I actually find the "automatic" threader to be more difficult to use than the slightly less automatic threader of the threadbanger. It's fine but I prefer the other.
4. *ahem* I believe retail is about $8000. I got it as a gift or I would still be using the Threadbanger.
I love this new machine. I was at a craft show looking at gifts for a friend's new baby and thinking "I could totally do THIS if I had an embroidery machine." So I started looking and kept coming back to the MC11k because of all the features. I jokingly put it on my christmas list (along with a refridgerator… didn't get that…darn) and my Mother started looking at it for herself. So now we each have one… mostly so I can be tech support when she gets stuck I think. ;-)
Brother Disney embroidery version…
I love that I can embroider and sew with the same machine…
Embroidery sometimes doesn't work…
$230
I have some kind of Viking Husqvarna – I inherited it from my grandmother about six months ago. It's at least 30 years old.
I love that it's all metal parts, easy to thread, and so far has handled thick fabric layers pretty well.
The bobbin thread gets tangled quite often, but I'm pretty sure that's my fault. I had never sewn anything in my life until six months ago.
Price: for me it was free!
I have a Kenmore that I found at a yard sale 5 years ago for $50. It has been a great machine. I still don't know how to do button holes on it. I tried it once and couldn't get it to work. I like that it is still working and that I got it for so cheap.
1.Brand and model of sewing machine.
Singer Confidence
2.Your favorite feature of your sewing machine.
Super easy bobbin threading!! The easiest I've ever used and 70 different stitch options.
3.Something that bugs you about your machine.
Nothing really, I've heard that it can be hard to find extra bobbins but I haven't found that annoying yet.
4.Price range
$350-400
1. 1941 Singer Featherweight
(looks like an old fashioned black/gold treddle machine)
2. Love that its tiny, can stitch through 9 layers without breaking a sweat and has the easiest hand wheel – I can get that sucker anywhere! I LOVE the attachments for ruffles, making your own bias tape and a rolled hem (super easy).
3. I wish it could do more than a straight stitch and I also wish it had seem allowance marks near the needle.
4. My MIL got one for all of her girls so I'm not sure. You can find them on eBay for $200-$500.
Janome quilter's companion 6125.
Love the decorative stitches,(computerized), up/down and speed features. Also came with various feet – love the walking foot.
I only feel it isn't as smooth when I use it after running my MIL's upper-end 10 year old Pfaff (which is the most amazing machine I've ever used, hands down). I don't notice a difference in the quality of stitch, however.
About $700 7-8 years ago.
1. Husqvarna Viking Emerald 118
2. It's a workhouse and has never failed me.
3. I wish it had a few fancier stitches
4. $480ish
Janome Memory Craft
It does everything except wash the dishes
It's like all women, it has it's off days.
£899.00 (no idea how much that is in dollars)
I would be lost without it and when it needs attention (again, like all women do) I have to make do with my old (3 years) Brother machine.
1. Viking 118
2. I love that it is so user friendly. I even have a cheat sheet attached to my machine that shows you what foot to use for each stich, and suggestions to what stich lengh and width for different stiches. I don't know what I would do without that.
3. I don't like how heavy it is. I just started taking a sewing class and packing it in and out of my car isn't the easiest thing.
4. $300
I love my sewing machine :)
Bernina Virtuosa 153, Quilter's Edition
I love the auto button hole, the huge stitch selection (which I havent even begun to play with , and I've had it for 8 years, and sew regularly!)
My least favorite feature is the plastic cover without a bottom (to protect the machine) and the plastic machine body. All the parts are great Swiss engineering :)
I received it from my parents as my HS grad gift, and 8 years ago it cost them upwards of $1200. It's has some fun computer options that I am embarrassed to say I haven't tried yet.
I LOVE my machine!
Singer 7462
Easy to use, blanket stitch, top drop in bobbin, and you can adjust the stitch width
I hate that the needle doesn't stop in the down position. This is something I didn't realize was even an option in machines till recently.
$150…HSN special :)
1. Brother CS6000i
2.lots of stitch options, easy to thread needle (major help for me), user friendly manual
3. not sure yet – usually it's my own lack of knowledge with a sewing machine
4. bought it 2 years ago for a little less than $200.
I use a Singer 99k from 1954. It was my grandmother's machine. It only has a straight stitch, but you can buy different feet if you need other things. The free motion foot was only $8.50
I love the simplicity of the machine. I've had to teach myself to sew and this machine is very forgiving.
The only thing I don't like is that there is not very much room between the arm and the needle of the machine.
Found you through a Friday Follow blog and LOVE your blog! Can't wait to read more!
Bernina Activa 135 S (it also says it's the "Patchwork Edition")
I has not and likely will not ever die! Lots of stitch options, automatic buttonholes, needle threader… ETC!
The only thing I could ever hope for (on any machine, really) is some kind of indicator to tell me when my BOBBIN IS ABOUT TO RUN OUT!! ;o) Could someone invent that for me?
I originally paid — deep breath — about $1K. YIKES! But it has served me well, and will for many, many more years. I cannot imagine ever using another machine!
1. Singer Quilter Confidence – 7469Q
2. It has so many stitches (98). It's supposed to be for quilters I guess, but I'm definitely not a quilter. Still all the options available are fabulous for the many projects I do. I LOVE it!
3. Something that's a little annoying; well the machine I used growing up had the option to move the needle to the right or to the left without doing the zigzag stitch. This one doesn't have that option. But that's way minor 'cause of course I can just move my fabric.
4. It was on sale at Joanne's before Thanksgiving, then it went further on sale before Christmas. We got it for somewhere around $250. Super steal!
Elna TX Electronic
Seriously, there is nothing that I don't like about this machine. I have never even had to use the manual because it is so easy to use. No oiling, not too heavy, great.
It isn't goat proof though. LOL, I did have to replace the pneumatic foot when my goat chewed through the tiny hose.
I can't remember what it was used a million years ago when I bought it, but Ebay has them for about $900.
I only saw one other Elna in all of the comments. Bummer, they are great.
lol@ not goat proof. im gonna check out this model, thanks for the review and the joke!
Brother CS-6000i
I love that it is soooo simple to use! And, it has so many stich options…most of which I've never tried!
I haven't found anything that I do't really like about it.
$150-$200
1. Singer 1120
2. Backstitch lever is conveniently located. Very basic. Easy-load bobbin.
3. The bobbin winder broke after a few months and never really worked well before it broke. I use a Side Winder now.
4. <$100
I would definitely recommend this machine for beginners and beyond, as it has many useful stitch options and is easy to use. Plus, at less than $100, it's not much of a loss if you decide you hate sewing. However, if you decide you love sewing, you will have yourself a great little machine for not a lot of dough. I have sewn likely over 100 items so far with no significant problems.
WOW so many machines!
I got a basic beginner's.
SINGER SIMPLE.
It comes with a Martha Stewart recommendation and a free subscription to her magazine (i don't like her but she's got some cool stuff)
AND it was only $89 +tax
It has been wonderful. Really easy, the only mess ups have been my own mistakes. 22 stitches, perfect for a crafter like me, not needing a big fancy hardcore one.
I have pictures of my Singer, and talk about it here:
http://sorayasceruleancharm.blogspot.com/2010/01/thinking-of-spring-so-i-made-apron.html
Brother CS-80. Bought it at Costco about 5 years ago after my dog sat on the pedal of my Bernina while I was sewing. It burned out the motor of the 20 year old machine.
Reliable and inexpensive.
No real complaints.
$180-$200.
I am adding this for Jan, who was having problems posting her comment. (Let me know if anyone else is having a problem…….. makeitandloveit@gmail.com)
Pfaff Synchrotronic 1229
Favorite features: IDT (integrated dual feed system), speed control, variety of stitches, easy buttonholer, and it is non-computerized
Nothing bugs me about my machine. I bought a Bernina 1260 several years ago, thinking that it would be a better machine. I have gone back to my Pfaff. I did some trials recently with different decorative stitches. Even without interfacing, the Pfaff's stitches had no puckering while the Bernina did. I never got used to the knee lift lever on the Bernina and didn't use it. The Pfaff feeds fabric evenly. I purchased a walking foot for my Bernina and it does not work as well as the Pfaff's IDT. Of course, take into account that I do not consider myself an expert seamstress. I just want a machine that works and is simple to use.
I do not remember the price as I purchased it approximately 25 years ago. I had it tuned up 3 or 4 years ago and the man told me that they don't make machines like that anymore. It is German made. I have seen a couple of Synchrotronics for sale recently for around $200.
Sincerely,
Jan G.
Singer Simple 3116
~The different stitches at a turn of a knob
~The button stitcher, if you bump it it turns on and you are sewing backwards!!! Ugh!
~FREE My grandmother in law has bought to many and needed to get rid of one!!
I used to work on a Singer Treddel circa 1916. I loved that one but oh man is this easier!!!
What a treasure trove! Thanks for all of this input…..and keep it coming!
Ashley
Brother Embroidery & Sewing SE 350
LOVE THE EMBROIDERY UNIT!
I wish the embroidery unit was even bigger, but I'm happy with what it can do.
bought it for $260 (normally retails for I think $360, but I bought it refurbished on overstock.com w/a coupon code)
Brother Ce-5000PRW (Project Runway)
Like – Easy to use. Several stitch functions.
Don't like – Umm. Sometimes can get jammed up – but that could just be the idot using it ;o)
Price – Believe it was around 130-150ish.
Wow…thanks Ashley!! I am shopping for a new sewing machine and this helps a ton!!!
I have a Janome Sewist 521. My in laws gave it to me for Christmas about five years ago so I don't know how much it cost. I hadn't used a Janome before, usually I would use my moms Singer or old Bernina but I would recommend a Janome to anyone!
Now I just need to get a serger :)
1. Bernina Activa 145s
2. I love how easy it is to switch feet and stiches. Also doing buttonholes is a breeze!
3. boy… i dunno. It has been such a good machine.
4. Not sure, my parents got it as a gift for me 6-7 years ago.
I have 3.
A1. Viking 116
A2. Feet. Not as many available as the higher end models, but more than my others.
A3. It gets finicky in the threading…gotta be just right.
A4. $300
B1. Kenmore top of the line circa 1976. (My mother's)
B2. Cams, so lots of stitches.
B3. Daughter messed up the tension, and I haven't fixed it yet.
B4. No clue.
C1. New Home Model A, circa 1915
C2. Will sew ANYTHING.
C3. The shuttle pops out of place if I'm not careful when pulling the fabric/thread away after a seam.
C4. $200 (more for the cabinet than for the machine).
Brother (I don't even know the model #)
I love the fact that I actually have a machine and even though it is basic I can use the magic ruffling technique with tension and length to get great ruffles instead of gathering.
I hate the fact that is is just a basic machine with only straight and zigzag stitches of varying lengths and tensions and no accompanying feet.
Free- my mother in law gave it to me when I married her son instead of throwing it out…She really loves me.
Bernina 730E
I love the wider opening for quilting, the BSR rocks, the needle up/down, 4 motor speeds, automatic thread cutter and the touch screen display…oh, and it does embroidery.
I hate that I am not closer to a dealer to take the mastery classes.
I love Ms. Nina and hope to have her forever. Thanks to the DH for buying her for our 15th Wedding Anniversary.
I think it was around $4500.
Brother, idk specific model.
It works, has a ton of features and see #4
The bobbins are sometimes fussy and fall off :/ (I think thats actually MY error tho)
It cost $25 whopping bucks!
Tip: I picked mine up at a repair shop, the owner had left it there for over a year after a 'routine tune-up' so they sold it to me for the cost of parts! They didn't advertise it, I just went in for vacuum parts or something and made small talk about the stack of sewing machines sitting there. Maybe you or one of your readers can get lucky and find a swanky machine?
I've got a Husqvarna Viking Embroidery machine.
I love that it embroiders stuff.
I dislike nothing about it.
It's expensive – around $5,000.
Elna Quilter's Dream ultra
I LOVE this machine!!
99 stitch options plus an automatic button-hole stitch.
Has an option to do freehand (without the feed dogs) quilting but it takes a lot of practice.
I actually don't know how to use everything this machine can do.
$900 two years ago
Bernina 230
Never fails or breaks. Up/Down needle selection. Tons of Stitches. I LOVE this machine!!
It is pretty expensive.
800 dollars
Sorry for a slightly unrelated comment, but I HAD NO IDEA there were so many inexpensive sewing machines. I have wanted to start sewing for years but thought I'd have to make a major investment for something I'm not even sure I'll have the patience to keep doing. Thanks for all the comments! I may start this sometime soon.
Pfaff quilting machine
WITH A WALKING FOOT.
ONLY WAY TO GO – THE WALKING FOOT, HOLY CRAP IT'S BETTER THAN CHOCOLATE.
OK maybe not.
Brother CS6000i Sewing Machine
I love all the decorative stitches it does.
The thread has issues sometimes. I can have it sewing just fine, and all of a sudden the thread starts globbing up on the back of the fabric I'm sewing.
I think it was under $200 at Walmart.
Overall it's been a pretty good machine.
Brother XR9000 (the special model they make for Costco)
I love all of the stitches that it has. It has several buttonhole options and it is SOOOO easy to do. It also has a great big surface for fabric and came with a ton of different feet.
I think that the light could do with being a little brighter and I wish that you could add additional fonts to it instead of just the one that it comes with.
I paid $169 (after $30 instant rebate at Costco).
I actually have several machines. The one I use the most is the same one that Care mentioned in her comment above.
A1. Bernina Activa 135 Patchwork Edition – This machine was available with and without the alphabet embroidery option. I have it without.
A2. I quilt a lot, so I like my 1/4 inch foot and walking foot which are optional purchases. I love that you only have to press a button to tell the machine to stop in the up or the down position.
A3. I've never figured out how to use the button hole. It only has 30 stitch designs.
A4. $1000 for machine, $100 for walking foot 8-10 years ago.
B1. Janome Memory Craft 350E – this machine does JUST embroidery, NOT regular sewing.
B2. It has a USB port, you can edit embroidery files in the machine. It has an automatic thread cutter that you can turn on or off. You can vary the stitching speed.
It has an indicator for when your bobbin is about to run out. I know I saw several people wish for one in their posts. It really does exist!
B3. ???
B4. $1200 brand new with as many lessons as I needed to learn the machine, some thread, stabilizer, and a flash drive to start me out. I bought it about a year ago.
C1. My third machine is a serger. Bernina 700D. It literally sits in a box in a closet and I've used it only a few times in the past 3 years.
C2. It's useful for rolled hems and fixing clothing. There are color coded diagrams right on the machine to show you how to thread it. They are very clear.
C3. The tensions that you need depend on the type of stitch you want. These are only listed in the owner's manual, so I always have to refer back to it.
C4. $600 about 5 years ago.
I have a Bernina 630E which I dearly love! Not a minute of trouble and it sews through everything.
I have had it 1 year having traded in a Bernina 430E
It cost around $4000, but it was a 31st wedding anniversary and actually maybe anniversary presents forever. LOL
Cathy
Husqvarna Lily 555 – LOVE it. I can't really think of anything I don't like other than it doesn't have an automatic needle threader. I don't know how much it cost – my mother-in-law bought it for herself and used it once. When she found out I was sewing again (kids got old enough for me to have a little time to myself!) she gave it to me. Great gift!! :) However, I had a cheap Brother sewing machine before, and the one thing I finally realized is that if you will use sharp needles and come to understand how to manage your tension settings, they all actually work pretty well. For a long time, I was frustrated by my 'machine' when in reality I just didn't know how to use it. I finally got a serger – the entry-level husqvarna Huskylock s15, and it has been great as well. As with most people, now that I have a serger, I do as much with it if not more than I do my machine. I can't tell you how pleased I am with both machines, and how fortunate I feel to have them.
1. I have a Brother CE-4000
2. It came with a ton of different feet for it. which I have yet to use like the button stitch and stuff. too scared.
3. The tension! (But that's probably me not knowing what I'm doing. lol
4. 150-170 (I had to Google it because it was a Christmas gift in 07)
I have not read all of the comments left (there are 100+ already) but I just wanted to add, if you are wanting a certain type of machine, but it is too expensive, try looking into a refurbished machine. Though it's not "new", I feel they are better than new. Any part that would have gone out on it already has, and has been replaced with a brand new part. Just something to think about.
1. White 1510 Heavy Duty
2. The fact that it works. My previous Singer manchine (Goodwill find) would not stitch fleece very well. Or anyt type of fabric, really.
3. I don't have a manual (if anyone has one, I'd love a copy)
4. $15 on Craigslist
I love my Janome Memory Craft (I think that's what it is). My mom has a Viking and LOVES it. Don't know which version. I'm always happy with the basics. Mine was around $700, but I got it at a cheapo store for 250 or 300.
My mother's old Riccar. She used in through high school and college (for a Clothing & Textiles bachelor's degree) in the late 60's. It's solid metal, heavy as the dickens, and stiches straighter than you'd believe. This thing is indestructable.
It also has a bunch of special "gears" that you can enter to do all manner of fancy stitches.
To me, it was free. Back in the day I have no idea.
1. Singer 2932
2. It is fairly basic, which means not confusing!
3. Nothing really bothers me with. It has it's issues from time to time, but things I have been able to correct. It is usually, ahem….operator error.
4. $150ish
Pfaff Expression 2036
Automatic button hole setting, automatic needle down setting and a smooth, quiet stitch.
Not much, the thread cutter is dull and doesn't work well.
Expensive, it was a graduation gift, but I think over $1000.
Janome 720
SUPER lightweight, easy to transport, never binds up- love it!!
Not a lot of decorative stitches
$469
Bernina 770 (1965)
I LOVE everything about my machine. I sewed EVERYTHING for my 4 girls.It has lots of fancy stitches. Easy buttonholer and is ALL metal.
Last summer my bobbin winder broke. When I took it to get it repaired the tech told me to just get a small bobbin winder. I did but DO NOT like it. It only puts about half of the thread on bobbin as my Bernina.
I hate to say we paid $389 in 1965. That was a lot of money then but I figured I paid for it a hundred times over by making all the hundreds of things I have over the years.
One things I WISH I could do is embroidery with the fancy discs. I can only do machine embroidery on mine.
1. Bernina Virtuosa 155
2. Lots of stitches, needle-down, half-speed, long neck, computerized display, automatic button holes, memory, mirroring, auto needle threader, sturdy machine, not made in Asia. Great starter machine for quilter, garment maker, crafter, etc.
3. My thread does this odd "peek-a-boo" along the thread guide every so often. It doesn't really affect the tension and the repair technician says not to worry. I also don't like that it doesn't have a USB port on it, it has an old serial port for uploading different sets of extra stitches. If I could buy a new machine, I'd buy the Bernina Aurora 440 with the stitch regulator. So want one!
4. I believe it was in the $2400 range.
Husqvarna Interlude 435
I ADORE my sewing machine, it is GREAT at buttons, has enough fancy stitched to make me happy and not too many to make it hard to choose, I can even do a SMALL amount of embroidery on it (I put RWH on a tie for my bros going away present and it turned out beautifully!)
I don't dislike anything other than the fact my machine is WAY smarter than I am. I really need to take more classes to learn all the my machine can do!
No idea what it cost, my wonderful husband got it for me before we were married and I think it would be bad to look up the price on a present.
I love hearing about everyone's machines, I don't know much about different sewing machines and this is a REALLY neat idea! Thanks! This should totally be a website about "if you are thinking of buying a sewing machine read this!"
Pfaff tipmatic 6122
Does some fancy stitches, but it's forte is doing the basics really well.
I wish the cord were longer.
$800 almost 10 years ago. My first big adult purchase. Bought it before I bought my car.
Husquvarna 990S
About 20 years old I love it all.
I like the way Husquvarna marks their preure feet so you know what you are doing. I love how it sew's over anything.
I don't like hos heavy it is to take to classes. It was about $1,000 new and has tons of stiches.
Becayse I didn't like how heavy it was I bought a
Janome Harmony 8080 to use in classes
I love the needle down, and the needle threader that is new since I got my old machine. I love that it is light weight and easy to run. I don't like that I have a hard time remembering how to use it since I don't use it often. It has several stiches andcost about $400.
Hmmm, oodles of machines out there.
Hubs was the dearest of hubs and I was given a BabyLock when it first came out for my birthday.
Enough said because I love everything about it.
with love,
Olivia
I have a Bernina 930. It is over 20 years old. It is a work horse. It will sew 5 layers of denim then soft knit with no problem. (After changing the needle, of course) I have several other machines, but this is the one that gets work done, a lot of sewing in the last 20 years.
Hi, Here's mine.
1. Janome – super secio (secio PC) maybe it's only available in Japan.
2. All in one – normal sewing, quilting, embroiderry, 100s of stitches, metals parts – which I've yet to discover the full potential
3. Up to now, I haven't yet had a chance to get mad at it, the only thing that bothers me is the Japanese manual and that I cant seem to find anything on the machine outside Japan.. :(
4. it's 375,900yen, which is equivalent to about 4000USD
Singer Professional 2010 Sewing Machine
Over 400 Stitches (hope I get to use them all one day LOL)
Wanted to use embroidery function for Christmas gifts but needed the hoop (will have to order that)
Received as gift
I have a old Viking Husquavarna 610, My favorite part… that it works! The worst part… the bobin always gets stuck. I didnt pay anything for it, it was my grandmas and when she passed away I inhereted it. I love sewing and have used it a lot, it will always be special to me because she taught me how to sew, I feel like Im carrying on her legacy! (But a new one would be so nice!)
Bernina 1630
Lots of decorative stitches, tons of options for extra feet, can do some embroidery/monogramming
Some of the symbols on the computerized screen are not intuitive, so I just don't always remember what they mean and how to work certain features.
I inherited mine from my grandmother, so I don't know about price. I know this is an older model (mine advertises that it has the '96 update), so it's probably only available secondhand at this point.
Well, I won't be much help answering the four questions, but I definitely have my sewing machine for a reason.
I have a brother (don't know the model or any of that). It doesn't have many (if any) features other than zig zagging & stitch length adjustments.
The reasons I picked this particular machine is because I got it brand new in the box at a yard sale for $5.
I've been using it for 8 years and it's still going strong.
Janome Sewist 625E
I love this machine.
It is a workhorse, meant for home dec and craft sewing. It has all the zig zag stiches you'll need.
It is not computerized.
I love the auto tension, and espiecially being able to set the needle in the down or up position automatically when I stop the machine.
I would love it if it had decorative stiches. Waa!
It cost $365 from a local dealer.
Bernina 1080
I love everything about it….but I love the button hole button :)
I don't have any hang-ups with it and I have had it for 15 years!
It cost WAY too much but it's worth it because it's a great machine and my Mom bought it for me for graduation!
First off, let me say I'm a quilter. I have begun sewing for my daughter (a few dresses) but mostly I quilt.
A Janome Memory Craft 6500 is my main machine to sew on. LOVE IT!!!
I have a few favorite features – one touch thread cutter, easy peasy needle threader, a button you touch to lock the stitches at the beginning of sewing, (no backstitching needed) and variable speed sliding button, so if you need to slow the machine down you can. I also LOVE how wide the hole is between the machine motor and where the needle is – can't remember what that's called, but it's super handy when sewing or quilting large projects, such as queen sized quilts.
The only two thing that bugs me are the width of the zig zag could be a bit bigger at the max width, and you have to get creative to sew something small such as a kid's dress armband, because the "bed" of the sewing machine is deep, front to back.
Not sure on the price range – I bought it from a friend when she upgraded to the 6600 (which has a start/stop button, so you don't even have to use the foot pedal!)
I also own a Bernina Bernette, which is my class machine. I bought it thinking I would be getting the Bernina quality like my mom's 1130 (great machine!) but unfortunately, t wasn't. It is cheaply made. Clackity-clack. Noisy!
I <3 my Bernina 430. I have had it just under a year. It is the best investment I have ever made. I decided I will have it for at least another 20 years. I purchased for $1800.00 ouch I know..and that was after saving 600.00.. but i have not regreted the purchase one. Prior to that I ruined a Singer and I still have a Brother that I have the cheapy walmart project runway machine.It does a decent job. I occationally like to bust out my Brother and sew something up with both machines just to compare with my Bernina… Huge difference.
My favorite features on Bernina. all metal parts, front load bottom. lot of fun stitches. bernina make amazing attachments. perfect stich every time. never any tension issues.. KNEE LIFT. I can sew so much faster with this. i could go on. but the best thing is I purchased from a Bernina dealer who offered free classes for a year on mastering my machine.. Always take atvanage of any classes you can take even if it is not a high end machine. My class had machines from 100-7000 and made me super confident in using my machine and taught me things i never would have learned on my own following the user guide.
Bernina Activa 135 S Patchwork Edition. Love this machine. Plenty of cute stitches a blanket stitch (which was the whole reason I picked this exact machine), automatic buttonholes.
I don't think I could wish for anything more with a machine. I'm sure it will last me for many more years.
I paid about $1000 for it 8 or 9 years ago. Pricey, but so worth it.
-Singer Fashion Mate (I can't remember the number and it's not out)
-Computerized, 70 stitch options, really easy to thread, etc.
-It's hard to get the top thread through the thread guide (there are other machine parts in the way)…I have to use a pair of tweezers to pull it through. Threading the actual needle is really easy and if you don't have the best eyes, the machine has an automatic needle threader (I prefer not to use it).
-$200 at Walmart
:)
-Sierra
http://creativekdesigns.blogspot.com
Janome Harmony 8080
I love the on the fly speed control. It's great to be able to adjust that up or down while I'm sewing.
50 stitches and the only way to switch between them is an up and down arrow. Not a big deal unless you're switching between #1 and #27, like I was earlier today.
$400
I have a Viking Designer 1. It is my dream machine! It has many stitches, auto thread cutter, does embroidery, makes buttonhole automatically, sews through everything (16 layers of denim!) and even tells me when the bobbin has run out! ;o) Ther are loads of different feet for different things and they are all marked and then the machine will tell you which one to use. I don't really have anything I don't love about it. I paid $1900 on ebay for it 2 years ago.
I inherited my Grandmas machine when she past away about 5 years ago. I'm a beginner and self-taught. It's a Baby Lock 'Golden Anniversary' 3800. I don't know too much about it but I like that I can sew through several layers and I've never had it get stuck. It does what I need it to and that's all that matters. Oh and I have no clue what it cost.
Bernina Activa 220
Many stitch options and easy to use
Nothing really to complain about
$500-$600 (It was a gift)
I have a Bernina Activa 145. I am a die hard Bernina fan and won't sew on anything else. It never gives me problems and I absolutely love it! I think it cost me like $500 dollars used and came with a ton of feet.
1. Pfaff tiptronic 1171
2. I LOVE LOVE LOVE the walking foot, it will change your life! Easy to use!
3. the bobbin casing is difficult to get the tension right but when its right everything works smooth
4.I had to save up for two years for this baby. They aren't manufactured any more they run around $400. But to me it was TOTALLY worth it. These are the kind of machines you can pass down from generation to generation.
Ashley, this is such a fun idea.
Bernina Sport 801
It is an old school machine. As a matter of fact, it still has the school district information carved into the side (along with a few other carvings from loving students). I love that I have this trusty sewing machine scratches and all. We've been through a lot together.
I don't like that I can't find a manual for it (at least not for free)
The machine was free, found in a next door neighbor's dumpster (with permission of course). My sweet Mom had it tuned up and bought a new foot pedal for it and gave it to me when I graduated from college.
1. Janome 4800 and Janome Harmony 8048
2. 7 feed dogs for smooth feed (both machines), 8048 has 2 stitch lock modes, high quality (both), needle down, 4800 lots of stitchdesigns, 8048 plenty of stitch designs, rarely have problems–usually my fault, Janome is the Honda of sewing machines.
3. 4800 one-spot stitch lock is not my favorite (6 slow stitches) but works fine.
4. Janome 4800 was $799 (worth every penny), Janome 8048 at Hancock Fab. $300 and a twin to the 4800. Love 'em both.
1.Bernette 66
2.All the stitches I need, quiet, smooth. Button hole mode is awesome! Upper thread threader is so easy to use. Way easy to thread! Convenient thread cutter.
3.One speed sewing, could be a little faster.
4. $250-300
I started out w/ the most basic Singer possible that I got for $60 at Target. I wasn't sure how much sewing I'd do. I outgrew it pretty quickly–when I moved up it was to a Babylok Decorator's Choice. I really, really love it. It's so smooth, has a great variety of stitches (more than I use at this point), great buttonholer. The singer I've passed down to my son to start learning on. The only downside so far with the Babylok is that the threader punks out sometimes–but that's pretty minor. It was a splurge at about $800.
1. Singer "Genie"
2. Only basic stitch options–straight, zig-zag, blind stitch
3. No buttonhole option. UGH! But I've managed–pretty much never do them. LOL
4. My parents bought it for me when I turned 16. That was in 1972, so it was probably under $100. This little machine has been amazing, and I've never even thought about getting a new one. It's compact, super sturdy, easy to use. I take it in to be cleaned & oiled every few years. Great little thing!
A VERY old, circa 1987, Bernette (Bernina)330. It is a very servicable machine but I sure drool over the new Bernina's.
However, this one is pretty basic, all metal parts and nary a bit of problems in the 23 years I have owned it.
1. Singer 5825C
2. It's so easy to thread. So straight forward, no hassle, AND singer's website. I can figure out who to do something on my machine for free and no trips to the sewing store to find out.
3. Confession – I'm a PFAF girl. That's what my mom and grandma use. It's hard for me to get used to things like, bobbins on top instead of on front. Other than my learning curve and a few tuneups, it's been great.
4. $60, You heard me. I got it used from my local high school when they were upgrading their homeEc classroom. Keep on the watch for good deals like that if you need machines for kids and friends just learning.
Huskystar 224
It doesn't really have many features but it's very simple and easy to use — a great beginner machine.
It eats the fabric I'm sewing sometimes right when I first start to sew. I don't know why it does this and I can't figure out how to make it stop.
I think I bought it used about 10 years ago for $600 but that seems obscene. Is it possible I paid that much for it? Ah, but 10 years later and only one "well-baby" visit for a cleaning and tune-up, I haven't had any problems.
Singer Advance 7442
It is a great starter machine with tons of stitch options (it was my first machine!)
The feed dogs do not drop, you have to cover them with plastic to do free motion quilting
$150
After reading many, many reviews. I decided to go with the brother cs-6000i. I love it. Everything that i have used has worked perfectly. I had a very basic old Kemmore. I got my brother cs-6000i thru Walmart.com was on sale for $125.something back in september with the case…is not the kind that snaps close but I didn't care for that…it was a great deal. It's very easy to use. I really do love my machine. This machine had negative reviews about the light not being bright enough but it's perfect is to me…I can see my work perfecttly.
My machine: Singer 2662
Favorite feature: I love the one step buttonholer.
Something that bugs me: I have a hard time guiding it on small tight curves…but that's probably just a problem with me and not the machine.
Price range: $400? I'm not completely sure, actually…got it as a gift for Christmas one year from my mom…who most likely had help from my dad, because he's great at finding anything at discounted prices.
1. Brother Pacesetter (?) Ult 2001
2. It's awesome!
3. Hoopin issues when doing machine embroidery (may be due to the operator…)
4. Ummm, too much prolly. DH bought it for me years ago – well, actually he bought a previous model, which I traded in for full value and got this one.
1. Viking Husqvarna 940
2. You can wind the bobbin without unthreading the top thread.
3. No auto buttonholes.
4. USED $250, and it's a really high quality machine. It's about 15 years old, I think, but all refurbished from the vac and sew place. I think they're more than $1,000 for the new models.
a REALLY OLD (1964) Brother machine… not sure of the model
– I frickin LOVE it. Quiet, reliable, I have never had issues with it.. and it's 46 years old! Now how's THAT for awesome?!
–I DON'T like that is has pretty limited stitch selection, and sometimes it takes a bit to get the hint that you have switched stitches, but it has the ones I need, so I'm okay with that…
I got it for FREE from http://www.freecycle.org. Yes, free.
I also have a SInger Simple, but I really really dislike it, so I never use it. It's kind of a piece of junk. Which is sad, because my first machine was a Singer and it was great. They're $130 at WalMart…
1. Janome 6600
2. Love the extra bed space. LOVE the automatic thread cutter. I also love the easy automoatic buttonhole.
3. It's a perfect quilting machine but when using it for sewing clothing I miss the free arm.
4. Around $1800?? Steep price but this workhorse should last me the rest of my sewing days.
I randomly came accross a Bernina 730. It is an absolute cadillac. I haven't had one problem. Everyone should have one like this.
1. Singer Simple
2. It consistently works and the price was right.
3. It's very no frills and figuring how to do extras takes a lot of work.
4. $115
1. Singer Confidence 7470
2. Tons of stitch options, powers through layers like a charm . . . to be honest, there's not a whole lot I don't like about my machine!
3. Lack of a real basting stitch. Not a dealbreaker for me, but I kinda wonder with all the other bells and whistles on it why there isn't one.
4. It's a $600 machine, but I usually see it on sale for $400-450. I got an amazing deal on mine with a sale online that I haven't seen since for $350.
WORTH EVERY PENNY!
I ditto Carrie's comment.
Brother CS-6000i
LOVE that it's computerized and the stitch options are awesome!
Wish the basting stitch is longer.
between $150 and $200.
1. Brother. I don't know which model.
2. It was free.
3. It's old. And the bobbin tension lasts for about 5 minutes before I need to adjust it.
4. Free. But I so desperately want a Bernina (which is so expensive).
I hate my sewing machine I run across the street to my mom's house to use hers.
She's a professional seamstress and has had her Bernina for well over 10 years and it's still going. They are meant to last, and seem quite user friendly.
(Can I say how surprised I am that there aren't more Bernina's. Perhaps it's that they cost so much. They are definitely not in my price range.
I got the Brother SE350 for my birthday last May.
We got it at WM for about $350.00
I love it because it's computerized. It walks me through each and every step. Trust me, I need it!
It also monograms. Hello cute, cheap gifts!
God's blessings,
Sarah :D
BabyLock Decorator's Choice
~I love that it has metal parts, tons of stiches, automatic backstich and thread cutter (seriously – this function is amazing to me!), and sews smoothly.
~Lately it has sounded kind of 'clunky'…but it has been a long time since I cleaned and oiled it…so I think that's the problem.
~About $800 – more than I planned on spending, but I love it!
Husqvarna Emerald 118
Self threading needle! :)
Sometimes the needle won't go down to the down position. I'm learning more daily about it tho since I've only had it about 6 months.
I think I paid around $400 or so for it.
1. Baby Lock Crafter Choice
2. I love how easy to use it is. My 2 year old has even figured it out.
3. I seriously love everything about it. I LOVE the features and threader and cutter.
4. $550
My Best Friend just bought a…
1. Baby Lock Grace
2. Loves the ease to transport and that she has never sewn before and she immediately felt comfortable with it.
3. Sometimes runs a bit slow on reverse.
4. $375
alison
maggiemoosmom.wordpress.com
OK, all I gotta say, is that it must be time for me to upgrade. A lot of you have machines that cost way less than mine, yet you seem to have WAY more stitches and options!
I bought mine ten years ago, so maybe that's the thing!
I have a Husqvarna "Romeo"
It's very basic, gets the job done
I have NO COMPLAINTS. It has worked perfectly all 10 years and I ask a lot of it. I only wish it had some pretty stitches to choose from.
$400.
1. Pfaff Creative Quilter
2. Love it's dual feed; the standard feed on the bottom plus one just behind the foot. It keeps multiple layers together which is great. I also love that it is computerized and has a very large selection of stitches.
3. I can't think of anything that I don't love.
4. Around $2200, I know it's a lot. I received a gift of $ for my 25th birthday and used almost half just for this machine! I huge splurge for me, especially because I was in nursing school at the time, but I will never buy another machine. It will live with me forever!
1940s Singer Featherweight: it was passed down to me from my great grandmother. I LOVE it. It is such a trooper, has hardly needed any service beyond a tune up. As Nike said it has several attachments for ruffles and bias tape, but I have also used aftermarket buttonholers and zigzag attachments with great success. I have found that I can do most everything I need with a straight stitch most of the time. I wouldn't bother using another machine and I would be heartbroken to lose this one; the small size, simplicity, and toughness of this machine just fits the bill for me. And it is super cute.
Janome DC3018.
Love how it sews – beauitful and smooth, with all the basics and not too pricey.
Annoyed there was no quarter inch foot with it like some of the other machines in the price range, but on the whole it sewed more neatly so it was worth buying the extra parts.
Worth $699 AUD but got it on sale for $399 yay!
Viking Husqvarna Emerald 116
Really easy to learn on with lots of stitch options
So far, the auto-threader really bugs me because I'm no good at it! (which is OK because I can thread it by myself just fine!)
$300
1)Bernina Activa 220
2)I love all the stitching options, functional and decorative, and I love that it's computerized. I also LOVE that I can stitch one stitch at a time. The Singer I had was 0-60 when I barely touched the foot pedal! Gah!
3)I really wish my machine had an automatic buttonhole. I'm a newbie sewer and since having my daughter I've begun making most of her clothes. It'd be really awesome (and yes, terribly lazy on my part, I suppose) if my machine would memorize the length of my button holes!
4) $700!! It was a Christmas gift from my parents and my husband. I nearly died at the thought of spending that much money. I do love it though and would like to upgrade someday a long time from now. :)
–Viking Husqvarna Emerald 116
–hm…It is really quiet, and automatic button hole!
–It is pretty basic–only 16 stiches and it's not digital
–$500 range (got it on super sale at Joann's for $275!!)
I got it back in August for my birthday, and I love it! I have made rag quilts, skirts, aprons, you name it! It works great!
5 sewing machines live at my house at the present time, all Husqvarna Vikings.
My main squeeze is my Designer SE. I previously had the Designer 1, which I loved, but wanted to hook directly to my computer for embroidery rather than use the discs, so I sold it and bought the SE. I got it on ebay for about $2300. I never pay full price for machines. It was barely used and I believe was $7000 new. I have had some hardware problems (covered under warranty) with this one but I'm sure it's a flukey thing because I had no problems with the D1. Also, the auto buttonhole feature is really cool but doesn't like to go over seam allowances, which leads me to believe that a man designed it. I love the embroidery and can do most anything with it. I WILL own the Diamond one day, used, of course!! I also have an older, non-electronic 6440. I have used this model (been thru 2 of them) for over 30 years. They are awesome and still available on ebay for $200-$400. They have cams that go in the back to expand the stitch variety. I have 3 Huskylock sergers, one I'm going to pass to my daughter-in-law. I've had my original one for 27 years (model 430), and have used it TONS, as I am a professional seamstress. It's still going strong and has never been in the shop. I recommend them to anyone who asks. They are easy to thread, which is a plus for the occasional seamstress. I prefer the 3 spool because I always do a seam on the machine anyway. Viking should be paying me for advertising, huh?
Ashley,
since i follow your blog and get so many cute craft ideas from you, i thought i'd show you this little make up/trinket bag i just made with my Handy sewing machine! It's kind of different
http://sorayasceruleancharm.blogspot.com/2010/01/zipper-bag.html
Brother LS2000. It's my first little machine. It's pretty basic. I got it at wal-marts after Thanksgiving sale for $50.
I love it. I's easy to use and it forgives my ineptness.
Janome Harmony Serger and
janome DC2007LE Decor Computer.
"Harmony" and "Jenny" and I love them.
Bernina 1000 Special
It is a very basic all metal machine. I love it.
The only thing that is bad about it is that it has a different bobbin than any other Bernina (maybe that's what makes it "special"). I have to special order them and it is rare to find someone that can order them and get the right ones in the first time (I would settle for right the third time even =] )
It was $700 (15 years ago)
1.Bernina Activa 125
2.No frills machine, basic stitching only, but that's all I use. I don't do the hearts and stars stitching kind of stuff. I LOVE having the most basic machine of a "high end" brand. So it has great bones and is backed by a fantastic companny, it just doesn't have all the bells and whistles.
3. Doesn't like super cheap thread- it can mess up my tension.
4.I got it for my 21st birthday from my parents, but I think it is in the $500ish range…I'd recommend it in a heartbeat!
Singer 1507- Great for Beginners
1. I've just started sewing, so I will have to get back to you about the rest of the features on this bad boy:-)
I have been asking for one I saw at Walmart for about $80.
Simple stitches for crafts is what I need it for. I would love to learn how to make pillows.
I haven't got a machine yet….like I haven't received my Cricut either.
We are on a strict budget so I don't expect to get either one soon, even if we receive a tax refund. :(
Viking Designer I
I love almost everything about it. It can sew through anything and love all the fun stitches. I also use the embroidery features quite a lot.
I don't love that it takes a disk instead of a memory stick. It makes it a little harder to get designs online.
Cost around $3500 a few years ago.
I have two sewing machines.
The first one is one my mum gave me. Over 20years old.
Janome ???
Like- it is made with a metal case- very sturdy
dislike- the dials for stitch they sometimes don't want to slip in.
cost- ?????
2nd machine Janome dc 3050
Like- ease of use, stitches
dislike- makes the buttonholes too large- I just use a smaller button- but still annoys me
Cost- $500
Husquavarna Viking Platinum 750 Quilt
I love that it has oodles of stitches to do on quilts, bags or what ever I make. I also love the fact that it always puts the needle back up.
I don't like that it tends to bunch up when I start sewing sometimes – although that might just be operator error.
I know we spent just under $1000 for it – my husband bought it for me after he did a side job for a friend. I love it but I am a bit embarrassed by how much we spent and that it sat around for about 2 to 3 years and didn't get used. Now it has been used almost weekly for the last year or so. It is running great – could use a tune up though.
1. Singer 7422
2. The threading steps printed right on the machine… sad, but threading the machine was always the most intimidating part of using my mom's sewing machine!!
3. Not much I don't like. One of the decorative stitches that has potential to be my favorite (Greek eternity band pattern) doesn't turn out quite as nice as I'd like.
4. ~$175
Janome 6500
I love all the stitch options and the fact that it is computerized and easy to set up any stitch. Easy to sew on.
I have a problem with the auto thread cutter breaking all the time.
$1200.00
Kenmore from 1974
It wsa a workhorse as I made all of our clothes back in the 70's and 80's. I got it out a couple of weeks ago and it needs to be tuned up. I was going to compare the stitch to the Janome.
I believe I paid about $79 for it and that was alot for me at that time.
i have 4 {blushing}
my beast is my Husqvarna Viking Desiner Topaz embroidery/sewing machine in one.
i love it..sewing like a beauty…very quiet, lots of stitch options including some cool decorative ones like a bicycle…yes that's right…lol
price range for that one is $3400.00
then i have the el cheapo brother project runway that i use to sew on (mostly paper) but an occasional mending of simple stuff.
price range 150.00..it's okay but can't handle much.
brother serger
price range 200 and i love that one
then i have my old old kenmore machine i think 5 or more years ago i paid about 150.00 for and it served it's purpose but i wore it out…now i only use it to sew with the elastic thread cause i can change the tension on the bobbin much easier than any other machine i have
:)
Hi! I'm a new follower of your blog. Love. It!
1. I have an old (1965ish) Viking Husqvarna 6030.
2. Favorite thing? That it was my mom's and I inherited it. It runs like a dream and has a bunch of decorative stitches. Even though it's a tank, my sewing repair/tuneup guy said that it should last until my grandkids can fight over it!
3. It's a pain to carry around, because it is a HEAVY beast!
4. Priceless. To me, anyway. I have no idea how much it would fetch nowadays, probably not much. My dad said it was a pretty penny back when he bought it for her, but I don't know the dollar amount.
Ashley – I have the exact same machine as you and I love it! I just had to let you know. I remember when I first found your blog, I got a glimpse of your machine in a picture and was like, "We have the same machine!!! I must be able to do what she does!" So far, so good!
Singer Advance 7422
I love having control over needle position, it also has 30 really nice stitches that I can adjust to my liking.
Like any other machine the tension is always the first problem. And I haven't figured out how to use the button feature yet (it has been years)
$180 (Walmart)
Singer Curvy (?)8400 (the blue electronic one)
I love everything about this machine. If I have to pick only one thing – I guess it would be the self threader.
As of yet, nothing irks me about this machine. It's been absolutely wonderful to use.
Price for just the machine – around $750.00 at JoAnns. I got a screaming good deal on it through Costco online and bought it for $380.00 – this also included $300.00 in accessory feet.
Brother LS-2125i
It was just about idiot-proof to learn on when I first began sewing
It seems pretty flimsy; if I have more than 3 layers of fabric, it doesn't really feed well. I'd like something more heavy-duty.
It was a gift, but it is refurbished, so I think it was about $50.
1. Brother Innovis 4000D
2. First let me say that I'm sure that this is the machine that all sewers receive when they arrive in sewing heaven!!
LOVE everything about this machine!! Sews and embroiders with so many awesome features for both that I couldn't possibly begin to list them for you!
3. If I had to list a downside to the machine, it would be the weight – It's a bit on the heavy side, but luckily I have a dedicated sewing room so the only time I have to lift it is to take it in for an annual tune up and cleaning!
4. Price – $5000. ( But worth every penny!!! )
A little basic Janome which I LOVE. I bought it used for 100 a few years ago. I also have a Viking Desinger 1 which I only use for embroidery but it is supposed to be an amazing sewing machine. maybe one day I will sew on it for now I love my Janome and monogramming on my Viking.
Janome Memorycraft 9000
Love the embroidery function although I don't use it as much as I should cause I'm lazy. Up/down needle option, ability to control speed on the machine, ability to set a certain distance of stitching and repeat it over and over again (very handy when sewing quilt blocks)
Not much I don't like about it I have to say- have never really had any trouble with it.
Bought for about $800 on ebay with all sorts of extras, not sure how much they went for new but think I got a great deal!
Also have an old singer that I use mainly for heavy-duty sewing and a Brother serger that I just got for Christmas
Janome MC11000
As a new sewer, this machine works great! I've used it for about 2 years now, done a variety of things from embroidery to sewing.
Only complaint is how heavy it is. Hard to take to classes.
This was a gift from my mother so no idea on the cost. She got one too, and I've been tech support for embroidery projects for her.
Bernina 1090
Favorite feature the knee presser foot lift it makes small jobs quick and easy!
What bugs me would be that I see all these snazzy new ones and I really would love it to cut my thread! I hate pausing to find my scissors and snip thread
Price – I (borrowed) more like kidnapped my sewing machine from my Auntie and it's going on 2 years now!
I am NOT a sewer… yet… just a wannabe and I stumbled upon your blog today and this is JUST what I needed!
I have my grandma's old Singer 750 Touch and Sew.
I like…that it sews? It has an auto threader and a few different stitch options.
I don't like… A LOT. It is nearly 40 years old… very moody, heavy, and confusing. I've read reviews on this thing that it just is the way it is… so I'm not going to accept user error.
This cost about $350 back in 1970 (pre-me) but it is built into a desk that I have also.
I am looking for a low-mid priced Brother or Singer next.
Pfaff Creative Vision 5.5
Many, many stitches. Lots of feet options. Easy embroidery.
My machine doesn't always pick up the bobbin thread when it's doing the embroidery basting stitch – drive me nuts but that's about the only thing that bugs me.
$$$$$ (way too much for the amount of sewing I do).
I own a 1952 Singer, that I received as a high school graduation present from my aunt, who owns a quilt shop. It runs like top, and it's very easy to use, in fact, it's the machine that I learned to sew on, hence why my aunt gave it to me. It also looks splendid with my more gothic decor, and I get comments on it regularly. My least favorite characteristics about it it that A: It weighs a TON, making those quilt guild meetings and craft classes a little embarrassing. Also B: It only does straight stitch, so if I'm working with knits or otherwise need a zigzag, I need to borrow a machine from elsewhere. It's worth $350-$500 dollars.
1::
KENMORE model:: 385.11206300 {sheesh.. talk about a mouth full!! :-P }
2:: FAVORITE FEATURE:
SHES GOT ABOUT 13 STITCHES :D AND SHES PRETTY COMPACT {its the small things that make me happy! lol}
Its a BASIC sewing machine, but ole Betsey has gotten me threw many started project and even more advanced dresses and what not, You know… for being so darn basic.
3:: DISLIKE:
Its soooooo BASIC! NOT TO MENTION SOMETIMES SHE DOES WHATEVER SHE WANTS TO DO!! :-X
4:: PRICE RANGE:
i think it cost almost $100 when my parents bought it! It was my 18TH BDAY GIFT!! :D back in 2006. the machine i REALLY learned how to sew on my own! [well, with the help of many blogger sites!! :) ]
<3
-MARITZA
I have a very simple USHA sewing machine. It is a fully metal body. It does just straight stitch..good for beginners..
I have a Singer 201 which is used most often along with buttonholer/Zigger. I love this machine because it is a treadle,
Its only drawback is needle threads from right to left & I’m left handed.
Also have Singer 128 again a treadle-tend to use this for delicate stuff don’t know why.
Did have a wonderful 401G until the motor burnt out, replacements are no longer made- even if I could get the old motor out (seems to have welded itself in) -It had THE best neat stitch and so quiet.
I have a Janome 625 E Sewist and I am relearning how to make lovely things for my granddaughter who is now almost 2. I love the clear bobbin cover so I always know how long I have before I rewind that bobbin. I love the little feature that drops off the presser foot and easily puts on a different one. The needle threader thing is pretty cool and it does offer a decent range of stitches. I only recently discovered it has an overlock function.
Something I don’t like….reading manuals to try and figure out how to make the most out of my new machine. I paid 450 euro for it.
I have a Pfaff creative 1471 and it DOES IT ALL! The machine is probably nearly 20 years old now and I’m sure the newer models have even more “state of the art” features, but I’m perfectly happy with the one I have. It’s incredibaly user friendly and does everything from simple stiching to embrodry, to serging, and beyond. It has 99 preset stich patterns and enough memory for a few hundred more “custom” stich patterns. It even does pattern mirroring. I love my machine!
My husband (at the time) bought it for me about 20 years ago and I think he paid around $1200 dollars for it. Pricey, I know, but it did come with every accessary available at the time.
I have a horse.. Kenmore 158.13450
I just bought the machine not to long ago at my local thrift store, because I REALLY wanted to learn how to sew. I like that it actually works.. But how??? I am still learning.
I am getting frustrated because I am not getting it at all, it has a foot pedal, 8 stitches, very basic but yet it still frustrates me.
Price: $50 (from my local thrift store)
I’m a beginner so I thought I’d just buy a used machine from Gumtree. It took me a long time to shop for a sewing machine counting all the reviews I read and being a beginner I just thought buying used machine to help me practice is better than nothing. So I got a Necchi 270 for £20. I bought it because the previous owner had used once and kept in storage for a year and hadn’t used it since. Despite the bad reviews, the only thing that drives me mad is the noice it makes. I love everything about it (despite the noice! grrrr), my first machine and I’m still learning.
Bernina
I bought it in 1987 for $900
I LOVE everything about it! It is virtually maintainence free and can do anything I ask it to do!
I have a New Home (now Janome) Memory Craft 6000. I bought it at the Los Angeles County Fair in 1985 ( or there abouts) for $1100. It seemed allot at the time. But it has been a dream machine. I was a beginner when I bought it. So I gradually grew into it, and all of it’s features.
It was one of the first computerized machines. It came with 10 different feet. I found buying a walking foot for heavy fabrics made it just perfect for all fabrics. What I truly love about the machine is it was very intuitive. It made learning to sew a joy. 27 years later I now love to heirloom sew and make smocked dresses on it. It has grown with me.
I also recommend adding a serger when you can. It definitely make your garments much more professional looking.
I have a PFAFF Hobbylock 776 that I also bought at the fair. You can try out 100′s of machines at the fair. They have experts there to demonstrate to you. Then you can decide which features you want or will use.
Hi
I doubt anyone is reading this far down, but wanted to be involved anyway :P
I have a Brother BC-2100 also known as something else in the project runway edition, but identical machines.
Sells for between $300-$400 in most stores, but I got it off Amazon for around $160! So look around :)
I’m a very beginner sewer, but it has been such a dream that I’ve actually started making clothes to sell in small quantities. That’s how easy this machine makes sewing! The manual is my best friend and it comes with a decent amount of feet and accessories in my opinion.
It’s computerised, which I LOVE! Has 1 step buttonholes, drop in bobbins, needle threader and 40 stitches!
I HATE that I can’t use cheap thread in it…every time I do it snaps or I get an error or it tangles like crazy at the bottom of the garment, but pop in Gutterman or similar thread and it runs like a dream!
It doesn’t “need” oiling…I don’t know if this is going to mean it needs more frequent shop maintenance, I guess time will tell.
I’ve just bought a Brother 1034D overlocker/serger to complement my machine, so hopefully soon I can tell you about that too :)
Feel free to follow my sewing adventures on FB and let me know that you came from here for a special bonus :) http://www.fb.com/MyLittleOwlHandmade
Thanks,
Jacqui
I have the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960
I love the stitch selection, and the large sewing platform.
This machine is fairly new to me and I havent found anyhting that I dislike about it yet.
I purchased this machine off Amazon and it was 389.00.
I guess I should have posted all my machines–
“A”
Singer Quantum Stylist 9960
I love the stitch selection, and the large sewing platform.
This machine is fairly new to me and I havent found anyhting that I dislike about it yet.
I purchased this machine off Amazon and it was 389.00.
“B”
Brother Embroidery and sewing LB 6800
When I bought it, one of the options was 22,000 extra embroidery patterns. I have made some cool stuff with it and very cute designs.
I have not played with this alot, and so far I have not found a way to reduce the image size, although it apears to be an option, but this may be user error.
I purched this off Amazon as well for 500.00.
“C”
Singer Seger’ I love the finished edge look
I struggled with rethreading the machine with new thread as it has four spools of thread, but got it finished.
I purchased this at Sears for 300.00.
I love all my machines, and use them all on specific progects.
My three best friends, Sergio, Broidery, and Singer. Love my men!!
TECHNICALLY- I have 4 machines. I really only use 2 though (the others are old Singer machines that run great, but are tough to adjust the settings)
1. Brother LX2500
2. Easy to work
3. Stupid tension and breaking thread! (I’ve had it for 13 years and I still can’t get it right!)
4. Less than $100
1. Brother Innov-is 1200
2. Love the embroidery designs. Love the quality. Love the easy needle threader!
3. Nothing so far (I’ve only had it for a couple weeks)
4. Found it used for $250- retail value of $1200.
1. I have a Singer 9940. I wanted to go with a computerized machine, my first computerized machine.
2.For the most part I like it, I like the computerized ability to flip and or rotate the stitches.
3. However, I have yet to make multiple buttonholes on a single garment with out one or two going horribly wrong to the point of having to rip out the entire failed buttonhole, and it is maddeningly frustrating have to rip out a buttonhole. It is also a bit fussy with bobbins, full bobbins of either the type 15 or 15j will run fun, but once some bobbins get about three-quarters empty, the bobbin will jam from the bobbin lifting up enough for the needle thread to catch on the bobbin. This seems to be less of a problem with the 15j bobbins. It took me a while to figure out what was happening, and I haven’t had a chance to figure out if using the 15j bobbins are the answer.
4. $600
1b. My serger… I’m another Brother 1034D owner. I first used a serger at a garment factory, many years ago. I likened it to getting thrown off a bridge to learn to swim.. but it made owning my first serger easy to use, I guess I got the hard part out of the way… My first serger was a Singer 3/4 thread with no differential. I love, love, love the differential on the Brother 1034D. I also like the ease of changing to a rolled hem, no changing the needle plate like the Singer. The Brother has handled everything I have thrown at it.
3. downside? I really haven’t found one.
4. $200-$230 I forgot. I asked for giftcards that year and used those towards it.
Husqvarna Viking Sew Easy 320. I think that it is about 16 years old. I put it on layaway and remember the day I got to bring it home.
I absolutley love the machine. My mom had a White and I think I learned four-letter words while she sewed on it. My Husqvarna has never ever (knock on wood) given me a single problem. It just keeps on sewing. It has a great amount of stitches and a powerful motor.
I still don’t use the button hole option very well, but I am sure that is operator error.
I think that I spent between 200.00-300.00 for it. I really don’t remember.
I also have a:
Husqvarna Huskyloc 901. I think that it is about 5 years old. My husband gave it to me for a Christmas present.
It is a great machine for serging, hemming and sofourth.
The thread guide is a little small to see for rethreading.
I am not sure how much it cost. If I had to guess I would say 300.00.
Babylock Elizabeth
It can do almost everything and has a ton of feet inclued.
Everything is perfect!
$700-$1000. I got it for $1000 but with 3 years of free classes included at “Eddies’s Quilting Bee” in CA, San Jose (I think)
Brother CS-6000
I LOVE LOVE LOVE that I don’t need the presser foot. It has a start stop button that’s just such a help seeing as how I don’t have a lot of space and my sewing table is my computer table AND my makeup table and underneath I store boxes so half the time I end up sewing with my legs propped up on a box so I can scootch my chair closer to the machine.
One thing I don’t like about it is the broken bobbin winder. Not sure what’s wrong or how it happened but it happened and I hate having to wind bobbins… I need a side-winder thing.
I actually don’t know how much it cost. Couple of hundred maybe. My mom had purchased it years ago thinking she was going to get back into sewing but she didn’t and it ended up sitting in the cupboard for years. Last year she brought it out to actually start sewing again but the machine was too much for her and she traded me for my simple $80 machine… made me so happy.
I love my machine <3