My daughter and I, (she’s 10 yo) are interested in STARTING a sewing hobby. We have made a quilt with a friend but nothing else. My daughter is facinated by the different kinds of stitching on the computerized machines. I just want something that is easy to navigate and has essential bells and whistles. We have looked at a variety of Pfaff models, the Kenmores at Sears and a few Berninas. What would you recommend for beginners? I think our price range is under $1000, though it would be smarter to go lower since we are so new at this.
Thanks,
Celery
Replies
Have you looked at the Husqvarna/Viking Saphire and Emerald machines? They are very nice and much less expensive the last time I looked. I own the Designer 1 and the Huskylock 936 Serger, I passed the Rose down to my dear grand daughter 13. We love sewing! My grandsons aged 11 and 16 also enjoy it when we can tear them away from the Xbox and computer. My daughter has never had the patience for it, but my son has done a bit both by hand and machine.
You two will have such special times sewing together. She is the perfect age! I suggest that you test drive the machines, expect "learn your machine" classes for free, and find out about the maintanace. You can go online to the different companies and research the machine features.
http://www.husqvarnavikingUSA.com, http://www.bernina.com, http://www.pfaff.com, etc. Best wishes in your search.
Thankyou for the other ideas. I have recently read about the computerized vs non-computerized discussions here in discussions. Now I am wondering if we ought to start with an entry level Pfaff or Kenmore and then later think about a more elaborate machine (ie Computerized). The Pfaff dealer said we could trade up with a full trade in amount.
I know we need to take lessons also...... I think it would be fun to take a class together!
I think the Pfaff machines are great too. I think it is definitely a plus to be able to trade up if you want to later.
Have fun sharing this wonderful adventure! Will they let you borrow one of thier machines for the classes? Some dealers allow this. Especially if you've purchased from them. (That way, for the classes, you and your daughter would each be able to use a seperate machine at the same time.) Mary
I bought a Sew Precise from Janome for my granddaughter last fall. She loves it. It is computerized and has a ton of stitches as well as a nifty buttonhole gizmo (they work really well). They run around $300........at least when on sale. I think Janome is running a sale now. I have had Janomes and liked them.......good solid machines. Now I have Designer SE and I love them ........but they are also high end and expensive.
I'm so happy to hear when girls want to sew. That's what it was with my granddaughter. She wanted to make things and had her great-grandmother's old, old mechanical straight stitch. It wouldn't stay adjusted and they were having an awful time. Jess' mom doesn't sew but is interested enough to help where she can. I just couldn't see them fighting that old machine..........bought her the new one and she's going to town!!! She and girlfriends made pirate costumes for Halloween last year!
Have fun looking and Happy Stitching!
Kay
I haven't seen a Janome yet, although I have read that Kenmore is a Janome in disguise. I will check and see if anyone sells Janome in my town. Thanks for the ideas!
I will enjoy the experience of sewing with my daughter no matter what!
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