Replies

1. 
   carolfresia | Dec 08, 2004 05:59pm | #1

   Joe,

   I'd recommend determining your budget first (at least $200, probably, to get a good starter machine), and find a good local dealership. Visit the dealship and ask what's available in your price range--and don't be afraid to refuse to spend more. If they pressure you to do so, this might not be the place to buy. If you purchase the machine from a dealership (as opposed to a department store or discount warehouse), you'll be insuring that the machine can always be serviced locally. This can be a lifesaver. Also, many dealerships offer classes and clubs, which might be fun for your daughter, even though she's taking sewing in school.

   A machine that does embroidery and sewing will cost you a lot more than just a sewing machine, although there are some mid-range models that have basic alphabets for personalizing things. You might want to stick with a sewing-only machine to start with, and if she's really into embroidery, you could consider an embroidery-only machine at a later date.

   GOod luck--a sewing machine is a terrific present!

   Carol

1. 
   jduggan | Dec 08, 2004 06:06pm | #2

   thank you great advice.  I will look for a local dealer.  You aren't aware of any on-line rating service are you?

1. 
   FitnessNut | Dec 08, 2004 08:48pm | #3

   Another option you may wish to consider is buying a reconditioned used machine from a reputable dealer, maybe even the same one you shop at for the new machine. Often these are higher priced machines when new and have been traded in for a top of the line $$$ machine. You can find some excellent bargains on what were formerly top of the line machines. That may be a way to get some of the extra bells and whistles while preserving your budget. A good dealer will offer a warranty with such a machine, so you can take it back for servicing if there are any problems.

2. 
   Elisabeth | Dec 08, 2004 09:51pm | #4

   You can look at the reviews at http://www.patternreview.com Lots of machines reviewed there.

2. 
   Alexandra | Dec 12, 2004 10:26pm | #5

   If she likes sewing don't get her a cheap machine, nothing is more frustrating than fighting with the machine.  If budget is a consideration, get a used machine, there are many available because of trade ups, and you will get much more for your money.  Make sure to get a rotory bobbin, they work much better than the cheaper shuttle type (not sure if that's the right term).  A good machine will last for years and years and years if she takes care of it, cleaning, oiling, and regular maintenance by a professional.  I started at a young age and had a rotten first machine that regularly reduced my to tears.  I guess the sewing gene was too strong for that to stop me, but having working tools is more conducive to creative expression.

   Good luck