What’s a good sewing thread for my sewing machine?
11/29/2024
Why clothes don’t fit anymore
11/29/2024
My first sewing machine was my mom’s old 1980s Brother. A machine that made me nuts because the thread kept breaking. Later I learned that it wasn’t the machine it was the low-quality threads – but that’s another story. If you want to buy your first sewing machine these points are my criteria to find the best one for you.
For what kind of projects do you need the sewing machine?
What do you dream about sewing one day? Do you want to sew some handmade Christmas presents, thick materials like jeans, or simple clothing?
If you want to sew simple things that aren’t thick, I recommend having an eye open for sewing machines at Lidl and Aldi. These often are simple Singer sewing machines that are under 200 dollars/pounds/euros. I also recommend these if you just want to give sewing a try.
Apart from sewing machines in discounters I can also recommend looking for second-hand sewing machines on eBay or reselling websites. In general, good brands are Janome, Pfaff, Bernina/Bernette, or W6. Make sure that the machine is still functioning.
A sewing machine for thicker fabrics
I own a mechanical Bernina 1008. I love it to pieces. It was my first sewing machine but when it comes to sewing thick materials, I had no chance with her. Everything above 4 layers was hard to sew. That’s why I was looking for a cheap alternative and stumbled upon the “Singer Heavy Duty”.
After sewing with the Singer Heavy Duty for over one year now; I can recommend the sewing machine. It does the job, is easy to use and I never had any problems with the machine. On the internet you often read about negative experiences and that the machine is overhyped but for that amount of money you get a very good machine.
If your budget is higher: I always recommend looking at a more powerful Bernina/Janome machine.
Do you plan to sew elastic fabrics?
When you plan to sew a lot with jersey or elastic fabrics, I also recommend buying a serger. A serger sews together fabrics while leaving a neatly sewn seam. You often see the stitch in your t-shirts, and it saves you a lot of time. Nonetheless, it is also possible to overcast your edge with a normal sewing machine and a zig-zag stitch. I currently use a Singer as serger, it does a good job and also has a good price.
I hope this article helped to make your search for a sewing machine a bit easier. Let me know which machine you have in the comments and if you are happy with it. I am sure it'll help other readers as well.
