Non-computerized Sewing

Question

I need a inexpensive non-computerized sewing machine... maybe a web site,brand, model? please and thanks :)

Answer 1

Honestly I recommend a Brother machine.

Walmart has a good selection of "beginner" machines. But bear in mind that they are so-called "disposable" machines due to the inability to repair them.

I've had one for 5 years now and if I oil it regularly (every time I use it) and keep the bobbin case and under the needle plate clean and free of lint it runs really well.

I have sewn everything from spandex to leather with it and have used it very hard at times. I have their 15 stitch machine that was phased out a couple years back. Their 25 stitch machine is now the price I paid for my 15.

Also Brother is one of the brands still made in the U.S. I have worked in sewing factories and the machines there are OLD Singer's (pre WWI) or Brother's.

P.S. Stay away from new Singer's. They are not as good as they used to be.  

Answer 2

First you need to read this: http://www.cet.com/~pennys/faq/smfaq.htm

Then you need to go to your local sewing machine dealer and talk to a proper sewing machine engineer rather than a sales droid about what you want to sew,.  A nice pre-loved mechanical machine should solve all your problems.  New mechanical machines, unless you are prepared to pay serious money for something like the Bernina 1008 (goes for about £475), tend to be light weight, clunky, and easily broken.

Answer 3

www.janome.com

i recommend the 313 or the 1022. i am not sure of the price, but they are very good, basic machines.

also, i would not recommend going the cheap route and getting a walmart machine. it will be more trouble than its worth and you will end up spending more money on repairs than if you had just spent a little extra money to begin with

Answer 4

Kenmore machines seem to be made by Janome currently. I've had very good luck with two different Kenmores. The best thing to do is go to the store and spend some time trying different ones - see what feels comfortable, makes sense, and sews straight.

If you have some time to shop, you can get terrific machines at yard sales, thrift shops and 'craigslist' for $20 or less. Bring fabric, thread, and a package of 'universal' needles, so you're prepared to test them out.

Happy shopping and sewing!

Answer 5

Go to a sewing machine store to buy any kind of sewing machine. NOT Sears or Wal-mart. A sewing machine store will give you free lessons on the machine you buy and you will need them. They should have all kinds of machine there and used machines for sale too.

Viking, Bernina, and Pfaff are great machines. White is a lower end sewing machine from Viking. I have a White serger that has worked great for over 10 years