{"id":25290,"date":"2022-11-19T11:26:42","date_gmt":"2022-11-19T16:26:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/?p=25290"},"modified":"2022-11-19T11:26:55","modified_gmt":"2022-11-19T16:26:55","slug":"tips-for-buying-sewing-machine","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/tips-for-buying-sewing-machine\/","title":{"rendered":"10 Tips For Buying A Sewing Machine"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"434\" height=\"650\" data-src=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/10-Tips-for-Buying-a-Sewing-Machine-434x650.jpg\" alt=\"buying sewing machine\" class=\"wp-image-25332 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/10-Tips-for-Buying-a-Sewing-Machine-434x650.jpg 434w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/10-Tips-for-Buying-a-Sewing-Machine-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/10-Tips-for-Buying-a-Sewing-Machine-100x150.jpg 100w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/10-Tips-for-Buying-a-Sewing-Machine.jpg 735w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 434px) 100vw, 434px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 434px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 434\/650;\" \/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"434\" height=\"650\" src=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/10-Tips-for-Buying-a-Sewing-Machine-434x650.jpg\" alt=\"buying sewing machine\" class=\"wp-image-25332\" srcset=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/10-Tips-for-Buying-a-Sewing-Machine-434x650.jpg 434w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/10-Tips-for-Buying-a-Sewing-Machine-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/10-Tips-for-Buying-a-Sewing-Machine-100x150.jpg 100w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/10-Tips-for-Buying-a-Sewing-Machine.jpg 735w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 434px) 100vw, 434px\" \/><\/noscript><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">For Me, Buying A Sewing Machine Is A Big Decision<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I know it is the same for most of us. \u00a0If I buy well, hopefully,<\/span> the new machine will be a <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">lifelong investment and even something I can give to my daughter eventually. \u00a0However, I also know that if I choose badly, the new machine may be nothing but trouble and something soon discarded. \u00a0And who can afford to waste many that way these days? \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is more, once I\u00a0get accustomed to using a machine, it's\u00a0a real disappointment\u00a0when things go wrong and this can set me back days or even weeks on my sewing projects. \u00a0Hence we should be extra careful when buying a new one. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A Few Things You Need To Consider Before Buying A Sewing Machine<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Choose Your Features<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"393\" data-src=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-1-500x393.jpg\" alt=\"sewing machine\" class=\"wp-image-25295 size-full lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-1-500x393.jpg 500w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-1-300x236.jpg 300w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-1-150x118.jpg 150w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-1.jpg 700w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 500px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 500\/393;\" \/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"393\" src=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-1-500x393.jpg\" alt=\"sewing machine\" class=\"wp-image-25295 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-1-500x393.jpg 500w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-1-300x236.jpg 300w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-1-150x118.jpg 150w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-1.jpg 700w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/noscript><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The type of machine you buy should depend on the type of sewing projects that you undertake. Even though most sewing machines perform the basic function of sewing, there are certain additional features that you should consider. There are embroidery machines, machines with quilting features, those with options for stretch stitches and some even have specialty feet. Consider if you want to go with a basic model as you are likely to outgrow it once you start doing new projects. Get a machine you can grow into as your skills grow. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Another aspect of the machine's features is what accessories are available for the machine and whether standard accessories like presser feet will fit the machine. \u00a0We've written a lot about presser feet over the years. \u00a0If you want to know all about press feet, please review this article <a href=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/more-presser-feet\/\">More presser feet than you will ever need<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Brand Origins And Materials<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"250\" data-src=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/01\/I-dont-know-but-for-some-reason-most-sewing-machine-logos-seem-to-be-red..-1-500x250.jpg\" alt=\"sewing machine brands\" class=\"wp-image-23436 size-full lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/01\/I-dont-know-but-for-some-reason-most-sewing-machine-logos-seem-to-be-red..-1-500x250.jpg 500w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/01\/I-dont-know-but-for-some-reason-most-sewing-machine-logos-seem-to-be-red..-1-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/01\/I-dont-know-but-for-some-reason-most-sewing-machine-logos-seem-to-be-red..-1-150x75.jpg 150w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/01\/I-dont-know-but-for-some-reason-most-sewing-machine-logos-seem-to-be-red..-1.jpg 600w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 500px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 500\/250;\" \/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/01\/I-dont-know-but-for-some-reason-most-sewing-machine-logos-seem-to-be-red..-1-500x250.jpg\" alt=\"sewing machine brands\" class=\"wp-image-23436 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/01\/I-dont-know-but-for-some-reason-most-sewing-machine-logos-seem-to-be-red..-1-500x250.jpg 500w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/01\/I-dont-know-but-for-some-reason-most-sewing-machine-logos-seem-to-be-red..-1-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/01\/I-dont-know-but-for-some-reason-most-sewing-machine-logos-seem-to-be-red..-1-150x75.jpg 150w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/01\/I-dont-know-but-for-some-reason-most-sewing-machine-logos-seem-to-be-red..-1.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/noscript><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are a variety of brands offering sewing machines like Singer, Bernina, Brother, Husqvarna Viking, Kenmore, Janome, Juki, and even Toyota. \u00a0(One of the best machines I've ever owned is a Toyota.) \u00a0While selecting a brand, you should take into consideration the country of manufacture and the material used for construction. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many of these brands come from large industrial companies with long histories of quality products and some brands have remained true to their origins. \u00a0These brands often, although not always,\u00a0still manufacture in their home countries or countries with reputations for quality manufacturers<\/span> such as Japan (Toyota),\u00a0Sweden (Husqvarna Viking), Germany (Pfaff),<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0and Switzerland (Bernina). \u00a0Sadly, I've not been able to find any machines still being made in the US although there are rumors that Brother might have built a plant in the US. \u00a0Try to choose a machine made in one of these countries. \u00a0It will give you years of trouble-free use.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, other brands have been sold off or licensed to mass retailers\u00a0or\u00a0lower-quality manufacturers and their quality has slipped sadly. \u00a0You often don't hear such good things about Singer, Kenmore, and even Juki these days. \u00a0(I'm talking about the newer machines. \u00a0I'm sure many of us have an ancient Singer that just won't quit. \u00a0I certainly do.) \u00a0I bought a small Juki\u00a0recently\u00a0for light work around the house. \u00a0It was made almost entirely of plastic and has been nothing but trouble, unfortunately. \u00a0Generally, lower-quality machines are coming from China, Vietnam, and sometimes Taiwan. \u00a0Buy these machines with caution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Price<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"362\" data-src=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-3-500x362.jpeg\" alt=\"buying \" class=\"wp-image-25302 size-full lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-3-500x362.jpeg 500w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-3-300x217.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-3-150x109.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-3.jpeg 700w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 500px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 500\/362;\" \/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"362\" src=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-3-500x362.jpeg\" alt=\"buying \" class=\"wp-image-25302 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-3-500x362.jpeg 500w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-3-300x217.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-3-150x109.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-3.jpeg 700w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/noscript><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p>The price of a sewing machine can range anywhere between $100 to $700 or more. Unfortunately, good quality sewing machines are expensive, and the old saying \u201cyou get what you pay for\u201d is definitely true for sewing machines like it is with so many other things.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sewing machines made of plastic tend to be cheaper and&nbsp;may not provide sewing precision or durability over the years. &nbsp;Metal frames and construction is usually a better choice.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Generally, it is advisable to go for machines in the mid-range, where you can often find a good mix of quality and features at a reasonable price. \u00a0The absolute cheapest machine is rarely the best option, but of course, only ever buy what you can afford. \u00a0<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400; color: revert; font-size: revert; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, Roboto, Oxygen-Sans, Ubuntu, Cantarell, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, sans-serif;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Buy From A Dealer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" data-src=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-4-500x334.jpeg\" alt=\"buying sewing machine\" class=\"wp-image-25303 size-full lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-4-500x334.jpeg 500w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-4-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-4-150x100.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-4.jpeg 700w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 500px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 500\/334;\" \/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" src=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-4-500x334.jpeg\" alt=\"buying sewing machine\" class=\"wp-image-25303 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-4-500x334.jpeg 500w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-4-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-4-150x100.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-4.jpeg 700w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/noscript><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p>When you buy a machine from a big chain retailer\u00a0selling lot of other items, the salesperson is very unlikely to know the detailed ins and outs\u00a0of each machine. \u00a0Whereas when you buy directly from a dealer he will be able to guide you in selecting the right machine based on\u00a0your exact requirements.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The sewing machine dealer will also be able to provide you with useful information on how the machine works, demonstrate it and teach you<\/span>\u00a0<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">how to clean the sewing machine. \u00a0For additional information on <a href=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/how-to-clean-sewing-machine-video\/\">how to clean your sewing machine<\/a>, please check out our article on the topic.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some dealers still even offer trade-ins or trade-ups which can be good value. &nbsp;Dealers are also the contact point for warranty claims which can save you time and headaches in the future. &nbsp;Many dealers offer used machines that could save you a lot of money too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After-sales support and access to spare parts is also important consideration. \u00a0A general or mass retailer will not likely provide much or any support and almost certainly not stock spare parts, but your local sewing machine dealer makes their living on such often-needed services.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Test The Sewing Machine<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" data-src=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_295909892-500x333.jpg\" alt=\"sewing machine\" class=\"wp-image-25315 size-full lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_295909892-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_295909892-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_295909892-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_295909892-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_295909892.jpg 1000w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 500px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 500\/333;\" \/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"333\" src=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_295909892-500x333.jpg\" alt=\"sewing machine\" class=\"wp-image-25315 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_295909892-500x333.jpg 500w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_295909892-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_295909892-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_295909892-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_295909892.jpg 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/noscript><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p>Before finalizing on any one brand or machine, you should always test the machine. \u00a0You'll almost certainly be able to do this at a dealer but probably not at a mass retailer. \u00a0Take some swatches of fabric and thread with you to the store and stitch the fabric to see <a href=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/how-a-sewing-machine-works-video\/\">how the machine works<\/a>. \u00a0Does it do everything you want it to? \u00a0How does it work with the fabric and thread you use most often?\u00a0 How is the quality of the buttonhole? \u00a0This is one of the keys to a garment looking professionally made or not.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>You should pay special attention to the smoothness, noise, stitch quality, and stitch options of the machine. \u00a0If you don\u2019t like it, try another one until you find a sewing machine that you like. \u00a0The more types of fabric you can test with the sewing machine, the less likely you're going to get any surprised later when you use it for the first time say on a <a href=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/sewing-stretchy-knits\/\">stretchy knit fabric<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/hem-sheer-or-lightweight-fabrics\/\">light sheer fabric<\/a>. \u00a0<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Buy Local If Possible<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" data-src=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_3224268081-500x334.jpg\" alt=\"buying sewing machine\" class=\"wp-image-25313 size-full lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_3224268081-500x334.jpg 500w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_3224268081-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_3224268081-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_3224268081-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_3224268081.jpg 1000w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 500px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 500\/334;\" \/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"334\" src=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_3224268081-500x334.jpg\" alt=\"buying sewing machine\" class=\"wp-image-25313 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_3224268081-500x334.jpg 500w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_3224268081-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_3224268081-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_3224268081-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_3224268081.jpg 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/noscript><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is often advisable to purchase your new sewing machine from a local shop. This way you are not only supporting a local business<\/span> but<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> also making sure that help is at hand if you need it. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you purchase the machine from a big shop or through an online store, you may not always get the after-sale service as expected. \u00a0You also won't have anyone to turn to if you need help and guidance on how the machine works or to make repairs. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We know it's not always possible to find a local sewing store anymore, unfortunately, but it's in all our interests to continue to support the trade when possible.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Read The Reviews And Do Your Homework<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"408\" data-src=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-7-500x408.jpeg\" alt=\"buying sewing \" class=\"wp-image-25307 size-full lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-7-500x408.jpeg 500w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-7-300x245.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-7-150x122.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-7.jpeg 700w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 500px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 500\/408;\" \/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"408\" src=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-7-500x408.jpeg\" alt=\"buying sewing \" class=\"wp-image-25307 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-7-500x408.jpeg 500w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-7-300x245.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-7-150x122.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-7.jpeg 700w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/noscript><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There\u2019s an enormous amount of information available these days on the internet. \u00a0The web has become the primary information source for many, if not most, people these days and it is a great tool to use when trying to research a new sewing machine. \u00a0There are a number of good review sources for sewing machines. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I've always found that Consumer Reports is a good place to start when looking for relatively unbiased reviews and information about a product. \u00a0You may want to check out their section on sewing machines <a href=\"http:\/\/www.consumerreports.org\/cro\/sewing-machines\/buying-guide.htm\">HERE<\/a>. \u00a0They also have a useful video on understanding the different types of sewing machines available. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<center><iframe loading=\"lazy\" data-src=\"\/\/players.brightcove.net\/1078702682\/2ab51b8c-6ce0-4c90-beb2-9a8912cc085e_default\/index.html?videoId=9138121001\" width=\"300\" height=\"150\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" class=\"lazyload\" data-load-mode=\"1\"><\/iframe><\/center>\n\n\n\n<p>Another great resource is reading through the comments on Amazon from people who have bought particular machines in the past. \u00a0If you have a look at the machine below, at the time of this writing, nearly 6,000 consumers have left reviews and comments on the <a href=\"http:\/\/amzn.to\/1SphwZv\">Brother CS6000i<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<center><a href=\"http:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/B000JQM1DE\/ref=as_li_ss_il?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-4&pf_rd_r=1HD279W9SV836ERAQ1PG&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=2416106202&pf_rd_i=12899461&linkCode=li2&tag=soseea-20&linkId=5c9c7b0a0e7bb9fe514d9408a7abb195\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/\/ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com\/widgets\/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B000JQM1DE&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=soseea-20\" border=\"0\"><\/a><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" style=\"border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;\" src=\"\/\/ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com\/e\/ir?t=soseea-20&l=li2&o=1&a=B000JQM1DE\" alt=\"\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\" border=\"0\"><\/center>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Ask Your Friends Or Join A Chat Group<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"400\" data-src=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_375639154-500x400.jpg\" alt=\"sewing machine\" class=\"wp-image-25314 size-full lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_375639154-500x400.jpg 500w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_375639154-300x240.jpg 300w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_375639154-768x614.jpg 768w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_375639154-150x120.jpg 150w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_375639154.jpg 1000w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 500px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 500\/400;\" \/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_375639154-500x400.jpg\" alt=\"sewing machine\" class=\"wp-image-25314 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_375639154-500x400.jpg 500w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_375639154-300x240.jpg 300w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_375639154-768x614.jpg 768w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_375639154-150x120.jpg 150w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/shutterstock_375639154.jpg 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/noscript><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p>It is always advisable to seek the help and advice of someone you know\u00a0who knows about stitching and sewing machines before zeroing in on a particular model. \u00a0There's usually nothing better or more trustworthy than first-hand information and feedback from an acquaintance.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>If you don\u2019t have a neighbor you can ask, and join one of the online chat groups about sewing. \u00a0Here at So Sew Easy, we think we have one of the best online chat groups around where you can get the opinions of nearly 19,000 members (at the time of this writing)\u00a0and which you can find on Facebook at: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/groups\/soseweasychat\/\">https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/groups\/soseweasychat\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This group is extremely active and I'm sure you'll find someone with information about pretty much any sewing machine you're thinking of buying. \u00a0However, to keep the group focused and useful to its members, the chat\u00a0is a &#8220;closed&#8221; group which means you have to request to join. \u00a0Because we review every new potential member, there can be a short wait to get in from time to time, so please accept our apologies if there is any delay. \u00a0We always do our best to keep up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Shop The Sales<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"500\" data-src=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-10-500x500.jpeg\" alt=\"buying \" class=\"wp-image-25305 size-full lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-10-500x500.jpeg 500w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-10-300x300.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-10-150x150.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-10.jpeg 700w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 500px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 500\/500;\" \/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-10-500x500.jpeg\" alt=\"buying \" class=\"wp-image-25305 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-10-500x500.jpeg 500w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-10-300x300.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-10-150x150.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-10.jpeg 700w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/noscript><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Like with any other product or commodity, sewing machines will go on sale quite frequently and you can save a bundle. \u00a0Sometimes prices can be cut in half or even more for brand-new, modern sewing machines. \u00a0Figure out what machine you want and then keep a look out for when it goes on sale. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Consider the Second-Hand Market <\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"257\" data-src=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-11-500x257.jpeg\" alt=\"buying\" class=\"wp-image-25309 size-full lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-11-500x257.jpeg 500w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-11-300x154.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-11-150x77.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-11.jpeg 700w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 500px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 500\/257;\" \/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"500\" height=\"257\" src=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-11-500x257.jpeg\" alt=\"buying\" class=\"wp-image-25309 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-11-500x257.jpeg 500w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-11-300x154.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-11-150x77.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/04\/buying-sewing-machine-11.jpeg 700w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><\/noscript><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p>While new sewing machine prices have come down a lot in recent years, sometimes you can get a lot more for your money if you buy a good used machine. \u00a0There are plenty of ways to find a second-hand machine from your local classifieds or bulletin boards to Craig's List or eBay. \u00a0As mentioned above, sewing machine dealers often recondition and sell used machines.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>You can even potentially buy a good quality industrial machine that will last you a lifetime for a fraction of its new value. \u00a0We wrote an article about this recently so you may want to review it: \u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/do-you-need-to-buy-an-industrial-sewing-machine\/\">Do you need an industrial sewing machine?<\/a>\u00a0for more ideas about this. \u00a0I bought an industrial Pfaff 563 machine made in Germany a few years ago. \u00a0It's an absolute workhorse and I have no doubt it will help me sew thick fabrics like denim,\u00a0multiple layers of fabric, and even leather for many, many years to come.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p>Hopefully these tips will help you with your choices when next you're thinking of buying a sewing machine. \u00a0If you have any other good ideas that we should share with everyone, please leave your thoughts in the comments below. \u00a0We always love hearing from you!<\/p>\n\n\n<h2>If You'd Like To Support Our Site<\/h2>\r\nIf you want to help us continue to bring you a wide selection of <a href=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/free-sewing-patterns\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">free sewing patterns<\/a> and projects, please consider buying us a coffee.\u00a0 We'd really, really appreciate it.\r\n\r\n<center><div class=\"ko-fi-button\" data-text=\"Buy me a coffee!\" data-color=\"#ff5f5f\" data-code=\"\" id=\"kofiShortcode46Html\" style=\"float: none; text-align: left;\"><\/div><\/center>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>For Me, Buying A Sewing Machine Is A Big Decision I know it is the same for most of us. \u00a0If I buy well, hopefully, the new machine will be a lifelong investment and even something I can give to my daughter eventually. \u00a0However, I also know that if I \u2026 <a class=\"continue-reading-link\" href=\"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/tips-for-buying-sewing-machine\/\"> Continue reading <span class=\"meta-nav\">&rarr; <\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":309,"featured_media":25332,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","wds_primary_category":0},"categories":[6,15,4,163],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25290"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/309"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=25290"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25290\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":74945,"href":"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25290\/revisions\/74945"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/25332"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=25290"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=25290"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/so-sew-easy.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=25290"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}