I need help buying my first sewing machine...?

Question

I am deciding between these two machines:

http://www.singerco.com/products/features.html?product_id=1332

http://www.singerco.com/products/features.html?product_id=1407

I don't know what all of the different features mean. I'm looking for something that I can use in college.

Answer 1

Ok....are you planning on majoring in something that you are going to use this machine a lot? Or is it just for fun?  

Singer has not been a favorite of mine for serious sewing.  There are a number of plastic parts that will wear out when used a lot, so if you are planning on a major that will require sewing this would not be my choice.  

If you are looking for a machine that will just do the basics than the cheaper one is the one to choose.

Answer 2

May I vote for "none of the above"?  At this price point, you'll get a far better used machine (repairable, too!) for your money than if you try to buy a new one.

http://www.cet.com/~pennys/faq/smfaq.htm

Here's what I look for in a machine for a beginner:

--very good straight stitch

--zigzag (4 mm wide is fine)

--way to make buttonholes that doesn't drive you crazy

--adjustable presser foot pressure (which helps with fabric handling)

Nice to have, but can be gotten along without:

--blindhem and stretch blindhem (saves you a ton of time)

--a few decorative stitches.

Most importantly, the machine has to be one that doesn't scare you and "just works".  It's absolutely no fun to work on a balky machine, or has to be adjusted every few inches, or just plain doesn't sew well.  It really takes all the joy out of sewing to have to fight with a balky machine.  Many of the cheaper machines, if they can be serviced at all, will have to go in for warranty work at the factory -- gone for weeks or months.  Some of the cheaper manufacturers also don't make repair parts available.  

Always find out who around you can repair the machine.

Please find some local sewing machine stores (typically sew-and-vac) and try out some machine both within your price range (and maybe a bit out of it), both new and used.

If you *must* have a new machine, the best I've seen in the low end machines has been Janome, which Sears seems to handle as Kenmore.

Answer 3

If it's cheaper, go with the 3116; the other has a overcasting foot and a rolled hem foot which you probably will not need in college.  the 3116 is a more basic model, which I'm sure will do everything you 'll need.