What is the best sewing machine for beginners?
A good sewing machine for a beginner is one built in a simplified design, offering a straight stitch, backstitch, zigzag stitch, and buttonhole. For any more advanced features, it’s best to wait until one has more skill with the machine.
A straight stitch, as the term implies, goes in a straight line. Generally there is a button or switch on the machine that, when engaged, will make the fabric feed backwards through the machine, towards the user; this is the backstitch mentioned above. With a zigzag stitch, the needle moves back and forth in a diagonal motion. This gives a wider, more stable stitch. With a buttonhole, it is necessary to stitch both sides of the slit itself so that the fabric doesn’t ravel. The user stitches the buttonhole, then goes back and cuts it.
Another important thing to take into consideration is the threading. The hardest part of learning to use my first sewing machine was learning to thread it. An important factor in this matter is the type of bobbin used. A bobbin is a metal or plastic spool, significantly smaller than the purchased spool, onto which thread has to be wound. Most machines have a mechanism to do this. After winding the thread, the user puts the bobbin into its compartment under the needle, then has to catch the bobbin thread with the needle from underneath so that the stitches will catch on the side facing down. Not all machines use exactly the same bobbin, so it’s important to make sure that the bobbin for your machine is readily available. It also helps to have a drop-in bobbin, which helps with the threading. If possible, it’s best to buy a sewing machine from a dealer, so that the salesperson can demonstrate the threading process, because every machine is slightly different.
I would recommend buying a machine that is designed for beginners. Don’t get fooled into buying a “mini” machine for $30-$40 US Dollars, because the smaller, cheaper machines are really hard to use for heavier fabrics, and they don’t last as long. However, a first-time buyer should avoid machines that have more features than he/she knows how to use. The more complex machines are more complicated to learn and generally more expensive, and it’s generally best to become comfortable with a simpler sewing machine before buying a fancy one.
Brand is also an important consideration in purchasing a sewing machine. Big box stores will sell brands such as Singer and Brother, and while those are respected companies, it’s often best to pay the extra money and buy a brand that comes from a dealer. These companies include Bernina and Viking Husqvarna, among others. There are several advantages to buying in person from an authorized dealer. First, the customer will have the opportunity to try out the machine prior to taking it home. Secondly, as with any piece of machinery, there is some risk of damage to the sewing machine through normal wear and tear. Many authorized dealers will be able to perform minor repairs on site.
As with any item intended to last for years, it is important to research one’s options before buying. A reputable dealer can point any beginner in the direction of his/her ideal machine, depending on the buyer’s individual needs.
All dealers sell good brands of sewing machines, or they would not be in business. Make a list of what features you would want on a sewing machine. Great buttonhole maker, adjustable needle position are two of mine. Include the type of sewing you would like to do – for quilting, you want a walking foot and 1/4″ foot. For garment making – a easy to adjust blind hem foot and zipper foot. Include your budget when making the list. Visit as many sewing machine dealers as you can. If you are a minor, take a parent or guardian. Try out as many machines you can at as many dealers as you can. Take notes. Buy the machine you like best from the dealer you like best – you may be visiting them again and you want someone you can rely on for help and assistance if needed. The dealer will give you at least one free lesson in using the machine. Many dealers offer additional classes, if interested.
