Kenmore Sewing Machines– Advice needed!
bartleby | Posted in General Discussion on
I am looking to buy a first basic sewing machine and am thinking about purchasing a Kenmore at Sears. I will use the sewing machine to piece quilts (which I will quilt by hand) and stitch pillows, drapes, and the like. I am confused about the options and could use some advice! I see three types in the $100-$200 range: the Kenmore 15208 (8 stitches), 15212 (12 stitches), 15218 (18 stitches). Does anyone have experience with any of these? One of the main points of difference seems to be the number of stitch types. I am going to be sewing pretty simple things– will I need so many stitches? Thanks for the advice!
Replies
For the type of sewing you describe you probably will not need any more than a straight stitch and zigzag which also includes buttonholes usually and a blind hem stich, possibly handy for hemming curtains. I don't have experience with today's Kenmore but I suggest you take samples of several types of fabric, light to heavy, that you typically would sew to the dealer and sit down for a relaxed sewing test of these fabrics on the machines you are looking at. If you use specialty threads take some of those too. Does the machine do what you ask it to do? Are the adjustments easy? Does it feel good to you? Are the stitches even and does the thread tension adjustment create good stitiching? You might also test drive another brand in your price range just to get a comparison feel.
Thank you very much for the advice. I actually decided to take the plunge and bought the thing-- but it has a good return policy in case there is some trouble. So I'll be testing it out at home!
Generally, there is no stitch width adjustment on the machines under $250 in the Kenmore line. If you need this then you may have to raise your price range.
Also remember that you have 30 days to try a Kenmore. If you do not like it it can be returned for a full refund.
Ginna
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