Tashana

I am at the point where I need to buy another sewing machine. The machine that I have is mechanical, very simple Singer about 12 years old. It is a good little machine that never had a temper tantrum. But, If it dies I will be in a pickle. I have never worked on an electronic (digital) sewing machine before. What are its pros and cons? I do not like overly sensitive machines that throw a fit if I use a thread that is not high end. I would be using the machine primarily for piecing and occasionally for quilting small projects. I have my Bailey for bigger quilts. The options that I like but do not have are automatic threader, thread cutter, dog feed lowering, and maybe a few decorative stitches. My budget is small, about $400. What are your thoughts - stick with the devil I know and buy a mechanical or join the 21st century and buy a digital machine? Help!

slk350

Can you even find new mechanical sewing machines ? I got my daughter a Brother sewing machine at Cosco last june (2011) for under $200. Nice little machine. She's just learning to sew & quilt. I just got myself a HV Topaz 20, but that was $2000. I was also using a very old Kenmore (30+ years old), but can't kill it. There are some Singers also that are pretty reasonable, don't know how reliable they are. Maybe buy a used higher end machine. Sometimes people trade them in for a better one or there is Craigs List, E-Bay and Sew & Vac repair stores sell used machines. Good luck.

Dolphyngyrl

I have both, but prefer my electronic, they make things easier for me. My brothers have never been fussy about the thread they use. Do you want it as you main machine or backup. for your price range I recommend the brother PC-420 off amazon. Its higher quality, more metal, and has a lot of nice features that you will love and not find on your mechanical, knee left, needle threader, thread cutter, pressure adjuster, lots of neat stitches

Tartan

I have 2 old singers that I can maintain and fix myself (not electronic) I have 2 Bernina electronic machines that go to the shop when the notice comes up on their screens. My Berninas are middle of the price range and have worked well for me. I have had my Activa for over 10 with only 1 small part needing replacement. I bought my Bernina 440 about 2 years ago and I love it. Go try a few brands out from dealers in your area. Good support and customer service are the biggest advantage when buying a new machine no matter which brand you choose.

GrannieAnnie

Something you may want to consider------------the electronics MAY die in an electrical storm. Now, if you don't sew 24/7, that may not make a difference. At any rate-----------keep the old work horse for times when it's rough outside.

sewbeadit

I have sewn and I own both, and like them all, they have each their own qualities. Go try some out. I have my electronic machine on a good strip protecter and have never in 15 years had a problem with it.

jcrow

I would take the $400 and buy the best mechanical refurbished machine I could. I received a 401 Slant-O-Matic Singer for Christmas in Original case with original manual and original box with feet and accessories for $198. Just think what you could buy with $400!!! Go to a 2nd hand store or a sewing machine store that deals in used machines!!

rush88888

my local vac and sewing machine repair place always had a few sewing machines for sale. you might want to visit them, too.

mommessy

I have both. Really love my old Singers for just plain sewing. They are so reliable. But the new computerized machines are awesome.

Sandygirl

I would not buy a car without power steering...would you?

Computerized for me! (Electronic).
My 2 cents
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