I’m going to be full timing in my Class C RV, and I want to purchase a portable computerized sewing machine. Don’t need embroidery, but do want something sturdy w/free arm, stretch stitch, one step button hole, auto threading and clear bobbin case for viewing thread volume.
I’m going blind reading all the research out there. I have an OLD Pfaff 230 embroidery machine now which I love but it’s in a cabinet and way too heavy to take along-[all metal–cams etc.]. It’s about 50 yrs. old so you have an idea of how out of touch I am!
Any help, suggestions, warnings…? My budget isn’t very high either! Probably looking for something under $300.
Replies
I would look at Husqvarna Viking dealer and see if they have display models or trade-ins. That's not much money unless you want to buy a Singer or Brother and I don't know which one would be good. Good luck.
Whatever you buy, get a roller bag (as low as $35 at Hancock's) so you can store it easily and take it out to sew in the rec room at stops that have them. This is a good way to meet new people. The roller bag will have extra pockets to store things and in many ways will take the place of the cabinet you have now.
As for the machine itself, I have both a Viking and a Brother. The Brother is sturdy and quite usable, but feels like a tank. It does have the advantage of being quite cheap.
I love my Viking and give it lots of use but am a little leary of subjecting it to the abuse of travel.
Thanks for the advice, all. I went ahead and purchased the Brother CS6000I 60-Stitch Computerized Free-Arm Sewing Machine with Multiple Stitch Functions...sounds pretty fancy, but it will at the very least be able to handle most of my sewing--some projects, mostly repairs, etc.It came with a case tho not an attached one. [seems silly not to be able to latch it to the machine for carrying...???]. The suggestion of the ? Bag? is something I'll have to look into.I am going solo, the rig is 31 ft. and I will be pulling an enclosed 5x8 trailer so things I want to take along don't have to be stuffed in the rig.I just got delivery of the Brothers--will post a review from my functional user point of view. Who knows, if it really is as versatile as the info on it, I may get motivated to do more projects!
Congratulations on your new machine, it sounds just great! This is so exciting! I hope you will enjoy your adventure! If my dream ever comes true, maybe I'll see you out there on the road! You are blessed to be able to do this! wahoo! Sweet Freedom! Mary
That sounds great. You're a lot braver than I. Backing my car is about all I care to take on. Hope you enjoy the sewing machine. Tatsy
"going solo, the rig is 31 ft. and I will be pulling an enclosed 5x8 trailer" Wow, I'm impressed. Blessed and safe travels to you.
Look to hear and your dispatches from the road!
If you find yourself in Colorado, let me know, I'd be happy to tell you some cool places to see and maybe meet somewhere! The Great Sandunes are incredible to see and they had a nice campground. Steamboat Springs has several natural hot springs pools. I could go on.... I love any excuse for a roadtrip. Mary
I would recommend finding a dealer that sells several kinds instead of one make preferably a company that is just sewing machines. People upgrade machines all the time and use their old machine as a trade in, also if they are moving or closing out merchandise, you can get some great deals. Hope you find what you are looking for and is feasible with your RVing.
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