Something I feel makes my home feel cozy is personalizing it. I like filling my home with things I have made, whether it is a pretty cross stitch pattern to adorn the wall, or an aromatic meal to fill the air and our tummies.
Which is why I think investing in a sewing machine is worth doing for your home and yourself. Having a sewing machine you will be able to take care of any fabric issues (i.e. clothing or upholstery) in your home and gain a new skill.
Buying a sewing machine can be a bit of a minefield if you don’t have much experience. Here are some things to consider before you make that investment.
- What type of sewing do you want to do?
Sewing machines come in all shapes and sizes, with varying specifications. The best machine for you will depend on what your overall goals are.
Do you want to make clothes?
Do you want to make quilts?
Or are you looking to gain general sewing skills?
Having said this, if you are a complete beginner, all you will really need is a machine that has a straight stitch, a zig-zag stitch, stretch stitch, blind hem stitch and a buttonhole of stitch. Most modern machines will come with a lot more stitches, and they are nice to have, but not necessary.
- Get experienced opinions and/or see if you can ‘try before you buy’
I was fortunate my first sewing machine was gifted to me by an experienced sewist who really knows her stuff.
Having said that, I’m currently looking to buy a heavy sewing machine and I will definitely be going somewhere local.
Smaller, local shops will have knowledgeable, experienced sewists at hand who will really be able to help you pick the right machine for you.
I have found local places that repair/restore sewing machines that often have models on display, and are open to letting customers try the machine. It may be worth seeing if you have a similar service in your area.
You may also have family and/or friends that have experience with sewing and have access to a machine you could try. It’s worth asking!
- Budget Conscious/Consider buying secondhand
Good quality pre-owned sewing machines are available at reasonable prices, at places like thrift stores, FB Marketplace, eBay and sewing repair shops.
You will likely get a great bargain and be in a better position to test the machine. Having said that, be mindful to make sure parts and accessories for the machine are easily available.
And on that note….
- Sales
If you live in the USA, I feel like Joann’s always has a sale on.
I know people in the UK who have picked up their sewing machine from a supermarket and it works great.
Thankfully, sewing machines seem to be widely available (in the USA anyway), so it is worth keeping an eye out for sales.
- What does your machine come with?
Most machines will come with some sort of accessories, but bare in mind you may need more.
When I started sewing, my machine came with spool holders, a lint brush and a seam ripper, but I needed a lot more if I wanted to actually make anything!
I ended up buying one of these kits, but didn’t end up using everything in it. It was still handy to have around.
Is there anything else you think we should consider when buying a new machine? Did I leave something out? Let me know below
Or if you have any other questions, please message me with it. I would love to help!
As ever, may your home full of cozy magic.
Blessed Be!
Amrita