I want to get a sewing machine - any recommendations?
#219454 - 10/14/05 08:33 AM
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Hey everyone! I started my quilting class last week. Last night was my second class. I LOVE IT!!!! I've been having too much fun! There are only 3 others in the class so you get lots of one-on-one with the instructor, who is also really cool. I'm so glad I signed up for this class!
Anyway, I really want to get a sewing machine. I've wanted one for a few years now anyway, but now that I'm doing the quilting, I'd really like to get one even more. I'd had a Brother (don't know what model) for about 20 years or so and I finally got rid of that monstrosity this fall! I hated that thing - the bobbin NEVER worked right and it was just a nightmare.
So, was wondering if anyone had one they were happy with or could recommend. I don't need anything too fancy - just something that will not be frustrating! 
Thanks for any input!
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Viking Rocks!
#219456 - 10/14/05 08:45 AM
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Bevvy
Reged: 11/04/03
Posts: 5918
Loc: Northwest Washington State
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Hi Melissa,
I have had my Husqvarna Viking since 1978. Before that, I had a Singer for 12 years. The Viking is a marvelous machine; it's done everything I wanted it to do, and more. After all these years, my Viking is still going strong; I have no intentions of ever replacing it. It's a great machine. It's only needed servicing two times in 28 years. I can't say that much for the Singer.
Recently, when I had my Viking serviced for the second time, the shop said nothing but good things about my Viking, but showed me the new models, and I was blown away. Now, sewing machines are interfaced with computers, such that you can have your sewing machine embroider just about anything you can download off the computer. It's mind-boggling.
For me, I would look into the serger. While my Viking does over-edging, and in fact does it well, I use this feature more than any other. A serger would be my next investment.
If you intend to use the machine for nothing but quilting, then I would talk with your instructor as to her recommendations.
I wasn't real crazy about quilting, but it had nothing to do with the sewing machine and everything to do with my patience level. I hope you enjoy the classes.
Bev
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<img src="http://home.comcast.net/~letsrow/smily3481.gif">Bevvy
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I got mine as a shower gift 2 years ago, and I really like it. I'm a total novice, but looking forward to the next month or so where I have more time to use it. It's a Kenmore 385.16120200, not sure if that helps. It's not electronic, but works really well. My mom, who is a sewing expert, also has a Kenmore.....I think they are good machines, and have good warranties. With the holidays coming you should be able to get a good deal. Sometimes fabric stores sell used ones too.
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I love my Bernina. It was a wedding gift from my Mom. She has a 40+ year old bernina that's still tickin'. They are extremely reliable. Mine has a 10 year warranty. In my opinion, Bernina is the best name out there, but then, I was raised by a Bernina "snob" (Mom's not a snob, she just really prefers B's). I have a Singer serger that I'm happy with, too.
The best thing you can do is go to a sewing store and try out a bunch. There are even sewing machines now designed for quilters - it has a wider berth to turn around large pieces of fabric. Obviously, they're more expensive.
Let us know what you get!!!
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Formerly HanSolo. IBS, OCD, Bipolar, PTSD times 3.
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But I'm also a gadget and features type person, which is why I like mine so much.
Here's mine: http://www.singerco.com/products/index.html
I've had no problems with it so far and even though I know it won't last me a long time, it was a great deal for what I could afford and had all my features.
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- Jennifer
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www.facebook.com/shell.marr
www.myspace.com/shellmarr
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Hey Bev,
I asked my instructor last night and she suggested a few brands. She mentioned one I'd never heard of and I thought it started with an H...maybe it was your Husqvarna. I cant' believe you've been using the same one for 28 years....WOW!!! Guess that was a good investment, eh?
My instructor has the computerized kind too. She said she treated herself for retirement! LOL I'd never heard of that before then. It is mind-boggling! I can't believe they can do that!
Haha! I remember you told me you weren't crazy about the quilting! 
So....what's a serger? 
Thanks for the help Bevvy!
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Oh man...I'm really pathetic! They have ones that aren't electric?!?! 
As a matter of fact, there is a Kenmore here. I found it in a sewing "desk" (or whatever sewing table things are called). It has not been used since my grandmother used it, probably in the 60's or 70's. (This used to be her house.) I considered trying it, but I looked at it and got scared and just closed it back up! LOL We do have one of those antique Singer sewing machines also...that's pretty neat looking! But obviously not for use.
I'll keep my eyes peeled for a good holiday deal!
Thanks!
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Quote:
The best thing you can do is go to a sewing store and try out a bunch.
COOL!!! I didn't even think of that! Thank you SO MUCH!!! 
I'll definitely let you know what I end up getting.
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