Maureen Fenn - The Spotlight Inspiration Room

Group created by maustu on Nov. 25, 2009

Tags: sewing

I love to sew and like to learn new things and help others if I can and get help from others when needed

Discussion Topics (1)

Poppies

Topic started by Poppies on Nov. 26, 2009

Hi, I'm new to sewing and up until now I have been going to my mum's place and using her sewing machine but now I would like one of my own. Any suggestions for a sewing machine? I would like to buy a machine that is suitable for a beginner but one that I can still use once I start attempting more advanced projects. For example, my mum's machine isn't really suitable for bag making as it struggles to sew through thick pieces of fabric, or more than 3 layers of fabric. Thanks

- - Barby
- posted by Barby on Nov. 27, 2009 Inappropriate
- Poppies, would suggest you do some research on the type of machine you would like and go to each of the various machine shops in your area. Take you own piece of fabric and cotton, and ask for a demonstration, you need to use the machine as well to see how you feel using it. Take into account how well the demonstrator demonstrates the machine and as to how helpful she is. Look for backup lessons or classes.
  Good luck on making your decision.
Flag this item as inappropriate
Please provide a brief description why you believe this content is inappropriate
- - Heather_Dress_Innaloo
- posted by Heather_Dress_Innaloo on Nov. 28, 2009 Inappropriate
- Hey Poppies, I don't know what area you live in but most Spotlight stores have a staff member (most often at Layby) who knows the most about the different machines. I'm not sure if all Spotlight stores do this or not, but I know that if you buy a machine from us you get an hour's free lesson on the machine you bought. One thing I can suggest is that most machines can do the more advanced stuff (like the bag making you mentioned), you'll just need to change the foot from the one on the machine (probably a presser foot) to a walking foot, and the needle (probably a universal) to something like a jeans/denim needle, or you can even get a leather one if you need to. Hope this helps :)
Flag this item as inappropriate
Please provide a brief description why you believe this content is inappropriate
- - Pauline
- posted by Pauline on Nov. 30, 2009 Inappropriate
- Poppy I answered this very question in the machine embroidery group- the same things apply at any level of buying a machine- pop over & have a read-may help you with your search for the perfect machine for you.
Flag this item as inappropriate
Please provide a brief description why you believe this content is inappropriate
- - Poppies
- posted by Poppies on Nov. 30, 2009 Inappropriate
- Hi, thank you for you feedback. I'll make a trip to Spotlight in Frankston have a chat to one of the staff members. Cheers Catherine
Flag this item as inappropriate
Please provide a brief description why you believe this content is inappropriate
- - zoannewall
- posted by zoannewall on Dec. 23, 2009 Inappropriate
- hey I have always found SINGER SEWING MACHINES to be the best . I have been sewing for the last 25 years. I have tried alot of brands, and have always gone back to my SINGERS. good luck with your chose. I have always found it to be what one is comfitable with. good luck and happy sewing.
Flag this item as inappropriate
Please provide a brief description why you believe this content is inappropriate
- - zoannewall
- posted by zoannewall on Dec. 23, 2009 Inappropriate
- hey i have been sewing for the last 25 years. I have used alot of different machines over the years, and have always come back to SINGERS. I have found over the years that SINGERS can sew any thickness and type of material and any style of material.Good luck and happy sewing.
Flag this item as inappropriate
Please provide a brief description why you believe this content is inappropriate
- - kissmekate
- posted by kissmekate on April 23, 2010 Inappropriate
- what do people think of the elna "elena" 40 computerised sewing machine?
Flag this item as inappropriate
Please provide a brief description why you believe this content is inappropriate
- - Bentdragonfly
- posted by Bentdragonfly on May 4, 2010 Inappropriate
- Sorry girls hate to rock the boat was a Husqvana Girl untill my favourite 70s MAchine blew up and started sewing by itself now am Janome fan it does not really matter what brand just find something that suits your needs there are so many options out there
Flag this item as inappropriate
Please provide a brief description why you believe this content is inappropriate
- - tara6858
- posted by tara6858 on June 6, 2011 Inappropriate
- I used to run a sewing business and sell machines. The best advice is to buy from someone who can teach you how to use the machine and make sure you have easy access to purchase accessories - (different feet etc). Using the correct accessories for each project is what makes the difference.
  If your budget is limited I suggest purchasing a good pre-loved European machine (Bernina, Husquvarna, Pfaff, Elna) rather that the cheaper taiwanese models. If you're buying new don't expect to pay less than $1000 and if your husband is having a fit at the price tell him it's an investment!!!
  The machine I use is 18 years old and I paid nearly three thousand dollars for it. I'm sure it's paid for itself ten times over. Not to mention the amount of money I've saved in Therapy - as sewing is my relaxation.
Flag this item as inappropriate
Please provide a brief description why you believe this content is inappropriate

Please Login or Sign up to share, vote, favourite or comment.

The Spotlight Inspiration Room

Group: Maureen Fenn

Discussion Topics (1)

Your Inspiration Room