Sewing Machine Shopping 101

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Today we're going to take about sewing machines. I'm sure you've all seen the displays at the big box stores. Purchasing a sewing machine is a lot like buying a car. Each brand has a variety of features, makes and models. Prices will vary according to features and such. When looking at machines it's important to make a list of what you'll need versus what you may want to have. One example is embroidery, while I would love to have a machine with the feature it's just not realistic to drop $700- $10,000 on a machine. ( yeah, you read that correctly. $10,000). The big thing to me when buy a machine is service and support. Having work for a sewing machine dealer, I know that you get what you pay for. When selecting a machine go to a dealer. More often than not, the machines have been tested so they know the work. They can offer classes, so you can learn how to use all the features and proper maintenance. You also may be able to score a good deal on a gently used/ traded in machine. Like I said it's a lot like car shopping.

Here are my does and Don't for sewing machine shopping

1. Shop around. This is an investment, you want to take your time and find the right one for you. Look at different brands models and features. If possible ask to test them out, there's nothing wrong with wanting to give it a test drive. 
2.  Don't be talked in to more than what you absolutely need. Bells and whistles are nice but are you really going to use all of those Decorative stitches or self cutting thread feature?? You can always upgrade later if you feel that you need to do more.
3. Ask about Perks. I touch on this at the top there, but if your purcasing from a dealer they often offer perks and incentives for buying from them. Whither it be basics classes, discounts on notions and accessories or machine servicing. The other nice thing is that if for some reason you have a warrenty issue they can take care of it for you.
4. WARRANTY. Find out what it is, what it covers and what to do in the event that something were to happen. Believe me, you'll be thankful that you did.

Next week I'll touch on Machine Basics and how to handle the little problems that come up most often. So stay tuned for our next chapter.