New sewing machine
#1
New sewing machine
I'm thinking about buying a new sewing machine and looking for suggestions. I don't want to pay the price of a used car, so $2,000 would probably be my top price. I have 2 kenmores that I love, but the newest one is 12 years old and I'm interested in any new features that are now available. I know I can't get a better kenmore, mine was top of the line 12 years ago, but I want to be able to learn how to use it, is there one that is similar? Also, I don't need embroidery, my Brother machine is only 2 years old.
#3
i have this one and just love it! it has a lot of features for quilting http://www.sewvacdirect.com/juki-exc...RoCPo0QAvD_BwE
#4
Super Member
Join Date: Aug 2011
Location: Asheville, previously Lake Vermilion, Tarpon Springs, Duluth, St Paul, Soudan
Posts: 1,651
Before you buy, you should know what you want. A bigger throat? Built-in alphabet fonts? Make a list and match that to machines. Then test drive them. If you want to know who really made your Kenmore, look here:
Sears Sewing Machine Manufacturer list addition
Sears Sewing Machine Manufacturer list addition
#5
Super Member
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: Pacific NW
Posts: 4,394
I wanted a built-in walking food (IDT on my Pfaff), as well as a larger harp space. I looked seriously at the Bernina but due to price, I purchased the Pfaff Quilt Expressions 4.2. I don't think it's really the quality of the Bernina, but has many features that fit me, and the price was right. Good luck with your purchase!
#6
Before you buy, you should know what you want. A bigger throat? Built-in alphabet fonts? Make a list and match that to machines. Then test drive them. If you want to know who really made your Kenmore, look here:
Sears Sewing Machine Manufacturer list addition
Sears Sewing Machine Manufacturer list addition
#7
Super Member
Join Date: Oct 2012
Posts: 1,131
I have 2 kenmores that I love, but the newest one is 12 years old and I'm interested in any new features that are now available. I know I can't get a better kenmore, mine was top of the line 12 years ago, but I want to be able to learn how to use it, is there one that is similar? Also, I don't need embroidery, my Brother machine is only 2 years old.
#8
Super Member
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Central NJ
Posts: 5,572
My first suggestion - as others have mentioned - make a list of your needs vs wants. I am the spreadsheet queen so when I was machine shopping years ago, did this and made room for the various machines/models so I could just do x or check marks for those features. I ended up with Viking Husquarvana and am extremely happy. Absolutely love the auto-tension feature. Never have to fiddle with that setting regardless of what I am sewing!
#9
There were certain things I wanted when I went machine shopping: needle up/down, thread cutter, auto needle threader and a larger throat. I should have also gone for an even feed foot.
Be sure the machine has the ability to FMQ and take a ruler foot, if you are interested in that.
An extension table is a must if you aren't planning to have a built in table made for it.
I have the Singer S18 (built by Janome, 6500) and love it. My Mom has a Janome 8900 and I love that one, too.
Test drive a bunch a your dealers and be sure you are comfortable with the dealer and know you are going to get great service from them in the event you need help.
Watson
Be sure the machine has the ability to FMQ and take a ruler foot, if you are interested in that.
An extension table is a must if you aren't planning to have a built in table made for it.
I have the Singer S18 (built by Janome, 6500) and love it. My Mom has a Janome 8900 and I love that one, too.
Test drive a bunch a your dealers and be sure you are comfortable with the dealer and know you are going to get great service from them in the event you need help.
Watson
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