....Sewing Machine

Quackers

Any ideas what to look for?

My daughter is 11 going on 17 and has asked for a sewing machine for her Birthday in August.

I have no idea at all what to look for and was wondering if anyone out there could recommend some models from experience?

I haven't got a price range in mind as I really have no idea whatsoever how much they cost! I think it will end up being a good investment as she is really creative so I dont mind paying for something of good quality. At the same time I want the best of both worlds and would like something reasonable :rolleyes:

Here's hoping there are lots of fantastic machinists on MSE

kittiwoz

I don't know a lot about sewing machines and someone else will probably reply with better and more detailed information. However here's what I do know:

Sewing machines are expensive; like £100 odd, but they last so you can get them second hand. In my experience sewing machines hold their price quite well since people buying them are generally more concerned with functionality than whether it looks new and shiny. However it might be a way of getting a slightly stronger or better featured machine than you otherwise could for the money.

Basic features that you definitely need are straight and zig-zag stitching with variable stitch length and tension control. If you are really looking to the long term and thinking your daughter might want to make her own clothes using stretch fabrics like jersey or lycra then you might want an overlocker but they cost a lot.

Also sewing machines can be quite dangerous. You should always make sure that when the needle is at the highest point it is only just above the surface of the fabric. I recall being told in secondary school textiles classes that a machine needle will shatter the bone in your finger if you get it in the way. In middle school we used to use the old-fashioned manual sewing machines where you turn a wheel to work it rather than the modern electric foot-pedal type, presumably for that reason.

nuttywoman

Tesco do some good sewing machines for about £50 or there about.Have a look on their website.Or try coopers.co.uk , they`re really good, free delivery plus extras, thats were i got mine from.
val

honey123

Quackers wrote:

Any ideas what to look for?

My daughter is 11 going on 17 and has asked for a sewing machine for her Birthday in August.

I have no idea at all what to look for and was wondering if anyone out there could recommend some models from experience?

I haven't got a price range in mind as I really have no idea whatsoever how much they cost! I think it will end up being a good investment as she is really creative so I dont mind paying for something of good quality. At the same time I want the best of both worlds and would like something reasonable :rolleyes:

Here's hoping there are lots of fantastic machinists on MSE

Hi
I was looking for nice sewing machine and i found tyota sewing machine in tesco extra on line, you can see it via this link
http://www.tesco.com/electrical/product.aspx?R=8229528
and as you can see the price is £79.99. but when i went to tesco extra in swindon i foung the same sewing machine for £59.99
I bought one and it is very good and i think there is 4 left in the store