How exciting! You are looking for your first or a new sewing machine. Does it feel quite daunting though? You don't really know what to look out for, what to ask about......
I have you covered....
Below is a handy printout that you can take with you which covers the most important factors to think about.
| Category | Considerations and Questions |
|---|---|
| Type of Sewing | What types of projects do I plan to work on? (e.g. Basic sewing, quilting, embroidery, garment construction). |
| Am I interested in any specific sewing techniques or features (e.g. Buttonholing, free-motion quilting, embroidery)? | |
| Skill Level | What is my current skill level in sewing? |
| Do I need a machine with basic features for beginners, or am I comfortable with more advanced options? | |
| Budget | What is my budget for a sewing machine? |
| Are there any additional costs to consider (e.g. Accessories, needles, thread, sewing table or cabinet)? | |
| Testing in Store | Can I test different models in the store? |
| How does each machine feel in terms of ease of use, noise level, sewing speed and overall comfort while sewing? | |
| Stitch Options | What types of stitches does the machine offer? |
| Is the stitch length and width adjustable? | |
| Accessories | What accessories and attachments are included with the machine? |
| Can I easily find additional accessories for the sewing machine? | |
| Features |
Does the machine have a larger arm for sewing larger quilt projects? |
| What additional features are important to me (e.g. Automatic needle threader, adjustable presser foot pressure, speed control)? | |
| Durability | Is the machine built with quality materials and construction? |
| What is the warranty and customer support like for this model? | |
| Reviews | Have I read online reviews from other users, especially beginners? |
| Are there any common pros or cons mentioned in reviews? | |
| Recommendations | Have I sought recommendations from friends, family, or online sewing communities? |
| Brand Reputation | Is the brand well-known and trusted for producing reliable and user-friendly sewing machines? |
| Size and Portability | How much space do I have for a sewing machine? |
| Do I need a machine that is easily portable or one that can stay in a dedicated sewing space? |