Any sewing machine recommendations?

Anekirr

Hi all,

I would love to get a good second hand or cheap sewing machine. There are so many types out there the mind boggles so I would love some advice...

What I would like to do initially is to be able to adjust clothes - remodel old ones and charity shop bargains. I don't think I would need one for curtains, upholstery or anything of that nature. I presume a very standard model would be the best thing?

Also could anybody recommend a good book for learning how to alter clothes? I would like to be able to size down skirts and trousers to fit and shape blouses in particular (I have terrible trouble with gaping blouses - small frame & a large chest!). I think I'd also like to take on small projects such as a simple skirt, summer top, etc. Many thanks.

horsechestnut

First. Buy a sewing machine that is "free arm" as opposed to a "flat bed".
That means it is easier to sew around cuffs and hems or very small areas of fabric and they tend to be of better quality!
Sometimes charity shops have sewing machines cheap.Around £30.
Argos sell them from £58.69 upwards, for a reputable make. Don't buy one from Aldi/Lidl etc, not because the are poor quality, but,purely because they are unknown makes and you can't buy spare parts for them.

Good sewing books are: Simplicity sewing book or The Readers Digest Sewing Book. These can usually be picked up at charity shops. The fashions shown in them will be old, but the information is still acurate.

natc

Hi,

I found this whilst looking for one for myself, it has 15 years guarantee and free scissors (!) and free delivery, seems to do everything you'd need for a basic model, and says even does denim, suede, leather, so thinking it may be strong.......anyone got any views on this or had/know about toyota machines? Im thinking of getting this for myself!!

s4aRainyDay

Excellent I was just going to ask this question myself!

natc

Lol! Just hope someone replies....!!!

ormus

dunelms sell sewing machines from approx 50-100 quid. leading brands too.
my MIL has an industrial quality machine, (bought used) for the same price as a typical domestic machine. this is what you really need for serious work.

vivw_2

The Book People have this book at the moment. Its brilliant. Definitely to be recommended

Rikki

Does anyone else sew their own clothes

Loads of sewing advice and tips there.

natc

That is really cheap! Its £18.99 on play.com (not dissing play.com though, love it!) but good find!

natc

Just found this its free site.