Basic Machine for stretch fabric alte…
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I need suggestions. I have a VERY limited budget (under $250, the less expensive the better) and yet need a machine quickly to replace a 1950’s Singer that still works but not on the stretchy fabrics I am trying to sew I need a basic machine that can sew a basic straight stitch on stretchy fabrics–i.. jerseys, lycra-blends, light cottons. I don’t do anything fancy like embroidery, quilting, etc. It would be nice if the machine had a one-step buttonhole– but maybe that is to much to ask on a limited budget? Please, any suggestions are more than welcome, and the sooner the better. I don’t really have the time to scout out too many alternatives or used machines since I have some alterations I want to make now. Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks!
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It is not so much the machine you need as the needle you use. Any machine (at least in the current market) can sew stretch fabrics with a stretch/jersey needle. You may also need to adjust the presser foot presser if possible. I have a TOL Viking and two entry level Kenmores (both Kenmores were under $250) and they will all sew knits, stretch jerseys, etc. just fine.
*Victoria,To add to Shannon's advice, there is one more thing you can do to sew knits on any machine, and that is to stretch the fabric as you sew. Increase the stitch length, since stretching the fabric will make the stitches closer together when the fabric is relaxed. Note that it becomes harder to gauge your seam allowance so you may want to mark your seamline with chalk and practice on a scrap of fabric first.
*Thank you both for the feedback! I appreciate any hints on sewing this type of fabric. I am looking at Kenmores on the Sears website since they seem to be reasonably priced and I have read decent things about them.
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