Sewing machine recommendations

Trixsie1989

Hi all, I'm looking to invest in a good quality sewing machine but have no idea where to start. I am a beginner so will be using it to learn but don't really want to buy a cheap one to have to replace it again when I want to do more advanced projects so it would need to be a good all rounder. At this point cost is not an issue but quality is and I would be using it to do everything from dress making to quilting and anything else I like the idea of any advice welcome, sxx

Katiehound

I love my Pffaff, but others love their Berninas!
Get the most expensive machine you can afford. However make sure that you are likely to use all the fancy extras! The one thing I wish my machine could do accurately & neatly is to make a perfect buttonhole- that said my older machine is now 40 years old and doesn't owe me a penny! It has sewn everything from leather and denim to fine fabric and is still going strong! It was the top of the range when I bought it, probably the dearest thing I owned except for a car.
Find an independent sewing machine shop which will let you play on their machines for as long as you want. Ask their advice.
I would say you don't buy a car from an advert you have a test drive, so test drive the sewing machines too. You don't have to make a decision then and there- be prepared to go back more than once until you find a machine that does all you want and that you enjoy using.

Trixsie1989

Thank you I will find an independent shop and go there next week on my days off I saw one online that was all singing etc but don't think,I'd use half of it lol xxx

Katiehound

A shop may well have expensive second hand models which might be worth considering if they come with a good guarantee. Any shop will be wanting you to return to get the machine serviced etc so they should be nice to customers!
You can always check prices on line and see if shop can match or if they can't reduce price then improve their deal- free lessons? free thread?

miffy257

Love, love, love my Janomes. I have 2 and share a third with my friend which we use on our quilting frame. As previous advice go to an independent shop and play. Enjoy