Check out the Sewing Machine before you buy

A sewing machine can last a lifetime if you are careful before and after your purchase. This should not be an impulse purchase, nor should you allow a sales person to talk you into a machine you do not want. There are many different manufactures offering dozens of different types of machines. When you take your time and do your homework you will find the perfect machine for your needs. Many sewing enthusiasts start with a very basic machine and over the years upgrade to more complex machines. There are some basic features that should be part of any sewing machine you try. Other more advanced machines will have additional features. Use the following list of characteristics as your checklist of features you want in a sewing machine.

THE BASICS

*    Machine starts & stops smoothly and is jam-proof if you sew off the edge of fabric .

*    Bobbin is simple to wind & easy to insert into the bobbin case.

*    Bobbin doesn't vibrate while sewing and feeds thread evenly.

*    Automatic bobbin winder shut off which prevents bobbin from overfilling.

*    Threading of machine is easy to do and easy to remember.

*    Needle is easy to remove and insert.

*    Fabric feeds evenly under needle.

*    Variety of utility stitches to join seams, overcast edges, topstitch, hem, sew over elastic, sew stretch fabrics and darn.

*    Variety of easy-to-chance throat plates, feet and attachments for use with utility stitches.

*    Needle plate markings to guide seams width.

*    Accurate reverse stitching.

*    Controllable stitch lengths and widths.

*    Adjustable tension and pressure knobs.

*    Sews over extra-sheer fabrics without puckering.

*    Variations in speed controls for stitching accuracy.

*    Light that illuminates needle area without shadows.

*    Thread cutter.

*    Foot or knee pedal is easy and comfortable to operate.

*    Sturdy one-piece body construction.

*    Sews over two or more layers of thick fabric.

*    Easy to clean, limited amount of oiling.

*    Instruction book is easy to understand.

*    Bobbin has large holding capacity, eliminating frequent rewinding.

*    limited amount of readjustments when changing stitch types.

*    Stitch memory for self-repeating stitch patterns.

*    Built-in buttonholer verses buttonholer attachment.

*    Feed control adaptation for darning and embroidery.

*    Multiple needle position control, increasing stitch possibilities.

*    Automatic needle threader for easy threading.

*    Solid-state foot control that allows slow stitching without limiting piercing power of needle.

*    Free-arm for access to tubular sewing area, with a convertible flatbed surface for regular sewing.

*    Up-down needle position switch

*    Ability to adapt to sewing at the push of a button without use of a foot or knee pedals.

*    Decorative stitches & monogramming capabilities to add personal touches.

*    Self-releasing reverse  control.

*    Built in carry handle or easy to carry case.

*    Lightweight, easy to travel with.

Once you have a list of exactly the features you want from a sewing machine, it's time to go out and try a variety of machines before selecting just one. Ask your friends what they like about their machine and what they might want in a machine if they were going to purchase a new one. It is important to shop around, but don't do all your research in one day. Take your time and really listen to the sales-person about the machines they are selling.

Buy the best-quality machine that you can afford without going over your budget. Your skills and interests will build as you learn more about sewing, so think ahead as you consider different machines. Narrow down your choices to the top three machines you like. Step back from the decision process for a few days to review your top choices. Then go for it! Pick your top choice and make your purchase. Find a place to take sewing classes in your area.

The best way to really learn the possibilities for you and your future sewing projects is to learn as much as you can about the machine you now own. Most of all, enjoy your new sewing machine knowing you look the time to purchase wisely!