People often ask me for advice in choosing sewing machines for beginners to dressmaking. This article is designed specifically for those looking to make clothing at home, or starting out on the road through fashion or costume training. There are specialist machines for other jobs like quilting and upholstery but I won’t be looking at...
Emily BThanks so much for this detailed investigation This question is asked so often (almost daily) in sewing forums, and I know I’ll be sending people over here to read this. It’s interesting to see that new Berninas didn’t pop up as ‘recommended for those new to dressmaking’; I’ll hypothesise that this is due to their (higher) price point, even for their current entry-level model (the 215). Fundamentally, they’re not unsuitable for beginners; they’re just a bigger investment to begin with.
Meanwhile, I’m thrilled to see some of my favourite machines on this list. Singer 201s (the older cast iron, and newer aluminium body machines) and the smaller 99s are straight-stitch only machines, but the narrower feed-dogs mean they are some of the most beautiful straight stitches you’ll ever see. I picked up my Elna Supermatic from the tip shop for AUD$15, and after a service it runs beautifully. My students love to sew on my Bernina 1001, too!
To anyone reading this and looking for answers: please take notice. This advice is sound, and has your best interests at heart.
Viv WatkinsI like your advice for using a hair dryer on a machine that has been stored for a long time or in a cold place. Years ago, my engineer told me I must always have my machine at room temperature before sewing and I do that without even thinking about it!
RitaPlease is keyser 69 and pffaf 1212 okay for beginners class? Thanks
woozelsmudgeHi Rita
As I say in the article I actually have very little personal experience with any machines except my beloved Bernina 1001. The Elna supermatic was recommended by several people I surveyed as a very nice little machine. Pfaff also scores highly among sewing professionals as a good brand and looking around there seem to be lots of tutorials and demos using it, I would say yes it will do you very well.Googling Keyser 69 didn’t help me know more either as nothing comes up – except an article with the Smithsonian museum. So from that I infer it’s very much an older machine! And, as long as they are good working order, older machines are usually pretty good. If it does a straight and a zigzag stitch and has a backwards function I should imagine you are good to go! I hope this gives you some confidence – all machines will benefit from a service before use!