Like many DIYers I’ve tried my hand at sewing various projects over the years ranging from curtains to duvet covers all with varying degrees of success. I found myself sewing more over the past year, but my hand-me down machine just wasn’t cutting it so I decided to take the plunge and buy a new one.
Buying a sewing machine is like buying a car; there are so many models with various features that research is key to making an informed decision. With research in mind I headed over to see Joe Murphy at The Sewing Centre (2144 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON) to look at available options and to test drive a few machines. Joe has some key tips to keep in mind when looking for a new machine:
- Have confidence in the machine. Always try out the features and various machine functions to ensure they meet your needs and you are comfortable using them.
- Make sure the machine has a button hole attachment and zipper and stretch stitches. Most new machines should have these capabilities, but some are more advanced than others. Go with what suits your sewing level and needs.
- You want to buy the best machine you can afford so as your skill level increases and projects grow in size your machine will still be suitable for your needs.
- Don’t ‘out feature’ yourself. Although some machine have a wide array of fancy stitches, chances are you won’t use half of them and will have spent a large chunk of change on something you’ll never use. Save that money to buy gorgeous fabrics!
Once you get your new machine home you should never have to touch or correct the tension – EVER! The machine should be set to the correct tension when you get it and if you are having any troubles or questions, take the machine back to the pros.
Also, make sure you read through your owner’s manual as it tells you how to properly maintain your machine so it stays in great working order for years to come.
So, after all my research and test driving was done I’m happy to write that I settled on a lovely Babylock machine that should keep up with my DIY projects for years to come!
Do you have pictures of your DIY sewing projects? Post them to our Flickr group!