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How to chooose a machine?

raleigh54 | Posted in Equipment and Supplies on

My son needs a sewing machine for the class work he’ll be doing in the fashion design program at Parson’s in the fall.  We just came back from the store and I’m surprised by all the new choices.  What do you experienced sewers think about the value of purchasing one of the computerized vs. mechanical sewing machines.  The dealer we visited sells Vikings exclusively.  What do you think of those?   Thanks for the help.

Replies

  1. raleigh54 | | #1

    I can sympathize with your dilema.  There are too many choices.  I've heard good things about Vikings tho.

  2. Weimboyz | | #2

    Hello;

    Vikings in my opinion are excellent machines.  I have a Euro-Pro (my first machine) still going strong; I have a Brother PC8500D and I just just purchased a Designer (Viking) and I have to say I am so happy with it!! 

    I think your decesion will also depend on your budget.  I think you can pick a budget and do some research on the internet to get a machine that best meets your needs within your budget.  Are you in Raleigh NC?  I am in Clayton, NC  There are brand dealers here so if you found a brand that you felt meets your needs; you can go and "test drive it" at their location. 

    Good luck!

    Weimboyz

  3. anniebee1941 | | #3

    I have used Viking, Necchi, Singer and currently own a Bernina 200E. I agree with the other responders but caution that determining what kind of fabric will be stitched is also important. Extra heavy duty fabrics can be a problem with some models of all manufacturers. Brother has a good entry level machine that works wonderfully well on all fabrics. Bernina also has a number of wonderful entry level machines. I bought my granddaughter one several years ago (she was 11 at the time) and it is still going strong. She stiches EVERYTHING! Good luck.

  4. User avater
    Nik-ki | | #4

    I just purchased a Viking (Platinum 775) a month ago and I love it.  It was a little pricey.  I decided to get a good machine because it will probably outlast me.

  5. mimi | | #5

    I've had Singers (2), Kenmores (2), and a Viking Platinum 730 in the past 30 years.  I looooove my Viking!  It makes all the others look like amatuers.

    You don't have to go for a fancy machine with all the fancy stitches.  A basic Viking should do and should not cost an arm and a leg.  Take it for a test drive with some materials he will be working with to get a feel for how the machine works.  At my dealer, all new Vikings come with a series of free lessons so you can learn how all the machine functions.

    mimi

    1. raleigh54 | | #6

      Thanks for the advice - I appreciate your voice of experience.  I think we'll buy an entry-level Viking.

      1. mimi | | #7

        Good luck!  I envy the opportunity your son will have going to design school:)

        mimi

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