Do not think that because you are just starting out, any sewing machine will do. Do not think that there’s no need to be painstakingly scrupulous when selecting your very first sewing machine. Know that just like choosing your child’s first bike or first learning tablet, choosing the right beginner sewing machine matters a lot. This is what will mold you as you continually enhance your skills as a seamstress. Your experience with your first sewing machine will also be a huge factor for you to either pursue a more serious sewing career or not.
Factors To Consider When Choosing The Right Beginner Sewing Machine
Projected Frequency Of Use
Why is this important? Because if your purpose is doing occasional sewing for maybe school costumes or making curtains every few months, then an inexpensive sewing machine with the basic function may be good enough for the job. However, if from the get-go you already know that you will be using your sewing machine quite often then you’d want to opt for a more reliable and sturdy machine with both basic and advanced functions.
Mobility
Do you have a designated sewing station where you plan to do all your sewing? Or will there be a need for you to move your sewing machine from room to room or maybe even farther, to a workshop maybe or performances? Knowing if it needs to be moved around or fixed to a workstation matters for you to decide if you need to get a light portable machine or if you can go for a fairly sized, a bit heavy but more sturdy one.
Work Space
After you have decided if you are getting a portable machine or stationary and you choose the latter, it’s time you consider how much space you have available at your sewing station. Be sure to have enough elbow room so that your movements wouldn’t be limited.
Power Requirements
Power supplies can either be 110 or 220 voltage, depending on the country you are in. You have to make sure that the machine you are getting is compatible with the power supply. Although of course you can always get a power transformer but it’s wiser and convenient if you wouldn’t need one.
User Friendly
You should take time to test and try to navigate a sewing machine before purchasing (some shops have test units that you can try). You’d want to make sure that you are comfortable with operating a machine and it’s not too complicated to use. Some machines offer a wide variety of advanced function but they can be too complex, that may be fine if you are willing to go through the manual and spend the time to study and get yourself familiar with every feature. However, you can opt for something that also has the advanced capability but also user-friendly and can be easily operated.
Your Budget
I truly suggest you buy the best your allocated budget can afford. Do not compromise the quality and reliability over a few dollars you can save. Investing a sewing machine that you can use for several years is well worth it as opposed to buying cheap and needing a replacement after a short while.
