Why do you want to sew? Maybe you are like millions of viewers who have been taken in by the hit TV series “Project Runway” and you are inspired to create. Or maybe you haven’t sewn or cut a piece of fabric since junior high, but you have a desire to make your own clothes. Or maybe you are getting into the world of arts and crafts. Whatever the reason, you will be surprised about the many features available on the sewing machines of the current generation. This kids sewing machine guide will help you make the right choice.
With a couple hundred dollars in your pocket, you could easily buy a quality basic sewing machine for kids that is able to handle the majority of clothing and craft projects you will incur. More money will buy more functions that are automated, and machines that are top of the line with all the bells and whistles can run upwards to a couple thousand dollars or more. These machines will produce quality designs that are professional grade even if you have never sewn before in your life!
You may remember in your youth your grandmother’s old Singer machine. Today, you would be quite surprised by the many functions of this generations sewing machine has to offer. Some machines can easily determine the proper tension for threads and the stitch length, some can automatically sew a button hole and can cut the threads automatically.
Best Sewing Machine for Kids Buying Tips
Know Your Skill Level
To find what will be the best kids sewing machine for you depends not only on your budget, but also your level of skill. Before you buy a sewing machine, you need to do an assessment of your skills and needs. You also want to give consideration to how you might use the machine when your skills have improved. Typically, those who sew will keep their machine for at least 10 years, so you want a model that is built to last. If you are a beginner or novice who wants to improve your skills you can often find free classes or classes that are low priced at your local fabric shop or at an independent retailer.
Popular Brands
Some of the top-selling sewing machines are known as Kenmore, Singer, and Brother today. Other brands like Husqvarna Viking, Janome, and Bernina are growing in popularity. It is important to select your retailer wisely. Various retail channels will offer varying advantages to shopping there. For example, a dealer who is an independent shop may now have prices that are very low, but you will find service that is more personalized and repairs are often done in that very shop. Some models are sold through dealers who are “authorized” for sale, which is usually an independent store or shop and they will also offer instruction classes and repair services.
Keep an eye out for what is on sale
Typically around holidays such as Mother’s Day or Christmas you can find a good discount on sewing machine models. It is also important to try before you buy. Test out more than one style and brand of machine and do so using a variety of fabrics. Make sure the stitching’s are even and that the machine overall is easy to use.
When you are sewing, using the right kind of needle is very important. A needle that is not the right kind, or one that is dull could bend and not only damage your fabric, but also the machine itself. For each project or when you switch types of fabrics, you should switch your needle. Your machine should be taken for a tune-up at least every two years, and even more frequently if you sew quite a lot.
Avoid paying full price
You can save on your sewing machine by looking online for coupons or asking the retailer about upcoming sales, discounts, rebates, allowances for trade-ins or financing that is free from interest. Don’t worry about being shy when it comes to asking for discounts or free sewing lessons either.
Stay Up-to-Date on Repair Policies
Most of the dealers will offer repair services in-store. If they don’t they will send your model to a repair center and sometimes even to the manufacturer. No matter who performs the repairs, always inquire about the turnaround time. This can vary from a few days up to a few weeks. Be careful when selecting technicians who are not “factory-authorized” for working on a particular sewing machine because this could cause your manufacturer’s warranty to become void. Always keep the original box your machine came in, along with the packaging just in case you have to ship it for repairs.
Making a purchase of a sewing machine is not something we do every day. Buying a sewing machine is likely the largest investment that will be made amidst any of your sewing tools. When you make a decision that is informed, it will allow you to buy a machine that will not only meet your needs, but can save you many hours of being frustrated. When the machine works with you, sewing can be a lot of fun and you can create almost anything.
Know Your Budget Limits and Make Model Comparisons
• Sewing machines can vary in price from a few hundred dollars to well over eight or nine thousand dollars.
• Don’t buy what you don’t need. It is easy to get overwhelmed and this will only put you in debt and cause you to feel regret for your buying decision.
• Think carefully about how often you will actually use your machine and adjust your spending according to that usage.
• Remember, a bargain is not always just a bargain. A machine that isn’t designed for the way you sew and the things you want to create can be very frustrating and a waste of your time and effort.
Choosing the Right Type of Machine
Basically, the function of a sewing machine is to intertwine two sources of thread to make a running stich that is uniform. Today, a lot has changed about sewing. Mechanical models are still available, however sewers that are highly skilled can benefit from other types of sewing machines, such as electronic or computerized models. Here are the kinds of sewing machines to take into consideration:
The Mechanical Model
If you are on a strict budget or only sew occasionally, then this model is a good choice. Most of the controls are manipulated by hand and it is good for basic uses such as repairs, hemming, making simple patterns and small craft projects. This type of machine works on a single motor that creates an electrical impulse that works the needle. The foot pedal operates the feeding mechanism for the thread. Both hands are free so you can guide the fabric and then adjust the speed accordingly. A dial allows you to select the type of stitch and the length. Most home sewers find their needs can be met with a mechanical model sewing machine.
The Electronic Model
If you are a frequent sewer or you have more of a budget available for an automated machine, then an electronic model might be an investment that is worthwhile to you. Many of the sewing jobs that seem tedious are switched over to an automated computer chip. Most units offer controls that are touchpad accessible, LED screens, and many different stitch types.
The Computerized Model
The sewing machines that are computerized are easy to use for the earliest beginners to the most advanced sewers. Sometimes, more experienced sewers will choose this model because it is more versatile. These models work using several motors that control different functionalities of the machines, such as controlling the maximum speeds, the up/down functioning of the needle, and the auto lock for a switch or a pattern.
The Overlocker Model
The Overlocker version of the sewing machine is considered to be a finishing machine. It is used for hemming and seams but it can also be used for decorative stitching as well. The main benefit to this type of model is that it can sew seams, finish edges, and cut away excess fabric all in one step. It is also great for fabrics that are knitted like jersey which makes it very useful, especially if you are someone who is a frequent sewer.
The Embroidery Model
This machine comes with all the options and features you find on any elaborate machine, and it gives the sewer the ability to perform monogramming and embroidery work for projects such as pillowcases, bedspreads, bags, or garments.
The most basic of machines should be able to handle a variety of fabrics like satin, denim, and even corduroy without causing any puckering or stretching of the fabric or producing stiches that are loose or loopy. Avoid paying for features that you are not going to use.
The sewing machine should be very responsive to the foot pedal pressure and not growl or stall when you are sewing fabrics that are thicker or multi-layered. These controls should not only be easy to reach, but also easy to manipulate. The symbols should be easily read as well. Look for models that have more room on the right of the needle because they offer more space for the fabric and for your hand placement.
Consider the Storage and Weight of the Machine
After you use it, are you going to have to pack it up and put it away? Will you be transporting it to classes? Consider the weight appropriately, because you don’t want to lug around a machine that is heavy.
Does it have accessories that require ample storage space? Most machines come with a storage area underneath them, which is very handy when you are limited on space.
The majority of models come with a hard or soft cover that protects the machine from any dust. For safe and easy transportation you should consider investing in a quality machine bag.
For the Beginner Sewer
• Learn all you can about the sewing machine.
• Learn the names of the parts of the machine and have a general understanding of what each part does.
• Visit each manufacturer’s website to learn what type of machines are offered.
• Buy fabric remnants that you are interested in and take them to the machine dealer with you.
• Look for guides for basic seams that are built into the machine. Watch those guides, not the needle when you are testing out the sewing machines.
Popular brands like Kenmore, Brother, and Singer sell about 70% of all sewing machine units. Other brands out there are growing on the market, but can be more expensive. It is important to compare each machine by brand.
Brother Sewing Machines
One of the leading sewing machine manufacturers is Brother International. They have a 29 percent share of the market for home machines. This manufacturer offers basic machines up to the most top-up-the-line versions including those that coming sewing and embroidery. Many models are high tech with multiple functionality and technology that is advanced, however they are still easy to use.
Husqvarna Viking Sewing Machines
When it comes to high-tech electronic and computerized machines, Husqvarna Viking is one of the industry leaders. These machines are developed and manufactured in Sweden. Recently, the company launched Designer Diamond, which is the newest high-end models for sewing and embroidery.
Janome Sewing Machines
When it comes to innovative and more-advanced sewing machines, Janome America is one of the top manufacturers. They offer computerized and electronic models that are from basic entry level, all the way up to high end. To date, the Memory Craft 11000 is the most advanced computerized sewing and embroidery type of machine. It has a patented technology and computer software stepping-motor.
Kenmore Sewing Machines
Kenmore which is owned by Sears, is a leading sewing machine supplier. The offer a variety of mid to low end machines that are multifunction models.
Singer Sewing Machines
One of the top leaders in sewing machines that has been around for years is Singer. They have more than 43 percent of the market share of sales. They offer a variety of models with features that will benefit beginners all the way up to the most proficient sewer.
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