Choosing a Sewing Machine
“My mother had bought a sewing machine for me... and she did that for me.”
‒ Alice Walker.
This quote is a beautiful display of a mother’s love and effort to equip her daughter with resources that will serve her well. Alice’s sewing machine was given to her, along with a typewriter and suitcase, when she left for college. In more depth, her words expressed the sacrifice of her mother’s time and income, having made this gift more valuable to Alice as the recipient.
Whether or not we invest in a sewing machine for our child, I think it’s important to consider areas of their unique interests. If your child has taken an interest in sewing, let me help explain what to look for when purchasing your first sewing machine. While considering your budget and what you hope to sew, this will help determine a good fit for your needs.
I recommend to shop local, support small businesses, and purchase from a storefront that can service your machine. I attempted this by seeking out a sewing shop that was out of state as there is not a local retailer accessible for the machines I wanted! I didn't feel it was necessary to purchase from this retailer other than wanting to support a small business. Finding a local machine repair service for regular maintenance will be necessary with any machine in time.
Some retailers offer instruction included with your purchase as well as other services if this is a priority to you. My particular machine of recommendation is not available locally near our studio and is available at my link provided.
This affiliate link does support our studio with your purchase. Here is what I like about this machine, along with a few other considerations for any machine you purchase:
Speed Control- This is a very important feature. Especially for the safety of children learning to sew. An adjustable speed control makes sewing more peaceful when you can choose your pace and be unhurried.
Free Arm- Most new machines have this but it is essential when sewing pant legs or sleeves that slide onto the arm of the machine. It is a removable piece on the sewing machine base that also can serve as storage for machine accessories.
Stitch selection- Straight stitch and zig zag are essential but also look for a button hole stitch and stretch stitch that looks like a lightning bolt. Decorative stitches are a matter of preference.
Weight and size of the machine- If your machine remains stationary this is less of a concern. With a heavier machine, you can expect it to have quality parts made of metal vs. plastic.
More features to consider- lighting on the machine, electronic vs. mechanical, automatic needle threader, on/off button, thread cutting feature, needle up/down button, pressure feet that are included (buttonhole, zipper foot for example) and a warranty.
Our Sewing Machine Recommendation : what we use in our studio!
My friend at Fashion Camp in Orange County, CA introduced me this Elnita by Elna sewing machine. I have been really delighted with their quality and capabilities! I’d love to hear what sewing machine you enjoy and what features you look for in a machine.
