QuiltinNana

A person could drive themself completely insane trying to figure out what kind of sewing machine to buy!

RedGarnet222

Your so right! The thing you need to start with a list of the things I want on the machine list. Also you need to set a price you are willing to pay for a machine. Then you must ask yourself how many additional feet and attachments come with the machine and what you have to buy. Soon many of them will go on sale in prep for the new models and it should be less expensive to buy a last year's model for a better price.

I had always had a bernina and bought a janome. It was a pill to learn to use the new machine so much, I sold it and bought a bernina again. Now don't get me wrong. The janome was a great machine and the things I had to buy were very inexpensive compared to the bernina's. But, I could not get used to the machine.

I suppose it is best to buy local so that the servicing is easier on you. But, if you want a great deal sometimes it can be found on line. The sew and vac on line is a good place to look.

The free sewing site http://sewing.patternreview.com/SewingDiscussions

is a good place to see what other people think of machines. They review them there and let you know how well they like them and what they don't like about them.

I think you need to test sew on one to really know if you like it.

Neesie

Welcome, from Texas!

When I was looking for a new machine, I read everything I could find, online. It's amazing, how much info you can find, with a simple Google search! If you're looking for something with specific features, ask the folks here for suggestions. Then you can research those machines and see if any seems to "fit" what you want.

jemma

after much research i settled on the horizon janome quilting machine--there were some problems when it first came out but janome set to and fixed them and it seems they listen to us the sewers---but the so the sit down and try out of all the things i want to do was the convincer[?new word!!] my dealer 10 mins away is extreemly helpfull so i feel confident any problems would be fixed

Tartan

When I was buying a machine, I looked for a good local dealer. I wanted to be able to get free classes and have someone to service my machine and honor the warranty. I think the first thing to do is visit different dealer and machines if you can to see what you like and can afford.
I also went with a list of must haves....lower the feed dogs for FMQ, largest harp space I could get for machine quilting, a good buttonhole stitch for machine appliqué, adjustable pressure on the foot, needle up and needle down feature, good lighting were a few of mine. Good luck!

SuzieQuilts

Customer service is everything. Find a dealer that you are comfortable, and is more interested in matching your needs to the right machine instead of selling a certain machine. If you already like a brand, stick to that brand and just upgrade. It will save you a lot of headache.

Tashana

Whatever machine feels right to you is usually the the best one. My singer has many decorative stitches but I use none. I got it because it was made mostly of metal rather than plastic. I like workhorses with no bells and whistles. I may use those stitches one day...

mltquilt

I am a Bernina girl, but they are not for everyone. Go to your local dealers and test drive different models to see what you really want. The selection process is a little like buying a new car. Don't be rushed by pushy sales people. All the brands have websites and you can get an idea of the different options. Most of them do no post pricing. Good luck in your search.

Sally J

I agree that a local dealer that provides classes is a must.... Bernina, Janome, and Viking are all wonderful machines but each brand has it's own "personality" and "features". I have a local Viking Dealer that is GREAT, therefore, I have had 5 Vikings and love them!
Test drive all the machines you can and pick the one that you enjoy and is easy for you to use as long as you like the local dealer that you feel will help you. This is even more important with all the new computer machines. Be sure to take the classes so you really understand the machine. I'm sure you will find the perfect match...

nygal

I am a Brother girl myself. I bought all if my machines from www.allbrands.com. They have a big selection, great prices,Free and fast delivery. My newest machine in my avatar is a singer from 1928. My only so far non Brother. Lol