I see so many of you ladies sew, and i'd LOVE to have a sewing hobby, I think.

Can anyone suggest a good beginner sewing machine?

I ask because I went to the craft story recently and the clerk immediately directed me to a $200+ machine which, I understand they aren't the cheapest things to invest in but if I end up not liking it, a wasted investment

My boyfriend insisted I seek any suggestions as i'm the queen of bailing on hobbies. Knitting, crocheting, painting, etc. I do have plans to sew blankets for holiday gifts this year so I think that may keep me motivated.

__________________

This is the one I got from Walmart it's $200 but I've had it for 3+ years and use it tons, and it's held up pretty well:
Walmart.com: Singer Fashion Mate 70-Stitch Sewing Machine 7256: Appliances

Here are all the sewing machines at Walmart:
Search results for sewing machine - Walmart

Quite honestly although mine has like 70 different stitches I only use maybe 5-10 if that, with only 1 regularly. So just starting out you could probably get one of the 10 or 20 stitch ones.

__________________

Thank-you Sugarbaby for my awesome siggie!

I recently bought a Singer 2263 for $99 and it was horrible.
I talked to a big sewing center here and the guy told me most sewing machines
in that price range have plastic gears and parts and dont last long.I returned it as it was
really awful jamming a lot and noisy.I bought a Brother 9000 for $200 at Walmart and I am in heaven!!
It came with 5 different feet and a quilting table attachment too.It is so
different and smooth compared to the singer machine.
I say buy the best you can with as many stitch choices and features.
$200 isnt that bad for years of enjoyment and there are machines out
there that cost a lot more even thousands(vikings etc.)
You will be able to make all kinds of stuff and actually save money!
Arent you worth it?? Dont be cheap and get stuck with a headache!!

I have been sewing since I was 16 and that has been over 40 yrs ago.... I use a sewing machine that I bought several yrs ago from Walmart.... brother XL-3030... it has several 'fancy' stitches on it I never use.... but its a sweet machine... I spent my machine money on my Serger....I would recommend when you look for a sewing machine that it has a buttonholer on it.... it will save you alot of frustration....... oh and read and REread the instructions that come with the pattern...... I can remember my first project.... I couldn't figure out the sleeves on a shirt when I first read the instructions so I just sewed the sleeves on... turns out I put the left sleeve on the right arm........lol........ so it didn't 'look' right nor feel right.........

__________________

you could also try looking on craigslist for a machine. especially if you don't want to invest lot of money. i have an old singer touch and sew that i got at the thrift store for $5 that i love. it sews like a dream.

__________________


thank you for my pretty new siggy Holly's mom
Kim Max and Daizy

I got a brand new brother from Walmart to & I love it. As I am also new at using a sewing machine, it's a really nice machine with great directions.

As much as I've sewn....and my hubby even bought me a nice Singer...I most used my cheapy cheapy Brother (don't know the model number off the top of my head) I got from Walmart almost 10 years ago! I had problem after problem with my Singer. And while I need a new foot peddle for my Brother...it's still going pretty well! I self taught myself on the Brother though. I love it & you can't beat the price tag. hehe

__________________

I have a Husqvarna. They seem to work better and break down less than other machines (especially Singer!) The one I have was a $400 one, but I believe they do have cheaper beginner models too. They would be worth checking out. I had an aunt who had one for 20+ years and it never broke down on her!
Good Luck with finding your perfect machine and on your blossoming sewing hobby! It's fun!

__________________