Replies

1. 
   MelyndaR | Nov 30, 2006 09:12pm | #1

   Jill, welcome to sewing!  I think you will love it.  As for a machine, I can't speak to the ones you mentioned, but I have a Kenmore that I love.  It's very reliable and I've done everything from drapes to tote bags to faux fur jackets to heirloom sewing. 

   I'm sure that the members here will have more suggestions for you.  You might also look at Janome, I know that they have some machines for some very reasonable prices.

   Melynda

1. 
   JillD | Nov 30, 2006 11:51pm | #3

   Thanks for the suggestion:)

2. 
   Becky-book | Nov 30, 2006 09:56pm | #2

   Hey there, and welcome!

   If you 'Search' through the old messages you will find various comments on lots of machines.

   Hope this helps,

   Becky

1. 
   JillD | Nov 30, 2006 11:51pm | #4

   Thanks for the suggestion:)

3. 
   fabricholic | Dec 01, 2006 12:30am | #5

   Hi JillD,If you go to a dealer, they might have a trade in that you could get for a good price. When people want a better machine, they sometimes trade-up. It's worth a look. Check out Pfaff, Bernina, Huskvarna Viking and Singer. Good luck!Marcy

4. 
   jatman | Dec 01, 2006 11:33am | #6

   Hi JillD,

   There is a website called http://www.patternreview.com.  On it they have all sorts of sewing machines reviewed by the people who have used them.  You may want to narrow down what brands you like first then go to this website and look at that brands' reviews.  Good luck!

   JT

1. 
   JillD | Dec 05, 2006 12:32am | #12

   Thanks everyone for the suggestions.

5. 
   AmberE | Dec 01, 2006 03:04pm | #7

   Hi Jill: Welcome aboard. There are lots of great machines out there for under $200 and I did a good part of my early sewing on an inexpensive machine. I wanted to let you know also that we are publishing a special issue for newer sewers in on newsstands in February called Sew Stylish---I think you would find it very helpful!Keep us posted on your projects!Amber Eden
   Editor
   Threads

1. 
   thimbles1260 | Dec 02, 2006 03:48pm | #8

   Will "Sew Stylish" include tips for how to get rtw looks?  My sewing tends to look "home made" if you know what I mean.  :(

1. 
   Ralphetta | Dec 02, 2006 09:49pm | #10

   About a week ago there was a discussion about "what makes things look home-made."  Without  rehashing the whole thing, I think the #one point was the importance of proper pressing  as you go.  See if you can find the discussion to read and I'll bet you'll be excited be more confident sewing on your new machine.

2. 
   AmberE | Dec 04, 2006 09:45pm | #11

   yes---even beyond rtw to designer finishes

6. 
   katina | Dec 02, 2006 06:05pm | #9

   Hello and welcome!

   I echo Fabricholic's suggestion that you also look at used machines in your search. I've given several machines to friends and family over the years, and finally took my dealer's advice - go for a good quality used machine from one of the top name brands.

   Whatever you choose, you're bound to get a lot of pleasure from sewing.

   Good luck.