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Machine recommendations

What do you want to look for when buying a machine? You can do a lot with just a straight stitch and zigzag, but I recommend getting a machine that has at least a 4-step buttonhole function, which usually costs about $80 to $130. For $50 to $100 more you can get an electronic machine with a 1-step buttonhole, automatic needle threader, a variety of stitches and the strength to sew through thick material.

I don’t recommend “mini” or “toy” machines as they usually break easily and don’t have much strength. Also, while used or vintage machines are great, be sure you test one thoroughly before buying. Here are some of my specific recommendations.

Many of my students have used this Brother Project Runway machine. About $370, it has a lot of bells and whistles, including a one-step buttonhole, about 70 stitches, and an automatic needle threader, and unlike the CS6000, can sew through denim and heavy fabrics.

Brother PC-210FS PROJECT RUNWAY 50 Stitch Computer Sewing Machine PC210 , 5x 1-Step BH's, StartStop, NeedleUpDown SpeedLimit, TopBobbin Threader, Case

Brother PC-210FS PROJECT RUNWAY 50 Stitch Computer Sewing Machine PC210 , 5x 1-Step BH’s, StartStop, NeedleUpDown SpeedLimit, TopBobbin Threader, Case

We consider the PC210 our “just right” computerized sewing machine. It’s just right as a next step machine for beginners, a dependable machine for the occasional sewing session or a delightful introduction to sewing technology for those hobbyists returning to the sewing world. Experience the joy of creating with simple controls, beautiful stitching, quiet operation and advanced technology.rn. 50 Built-In Stitch Selection rn. 6-Point Feed-Dogs rn. Accessory compartment rn. Extra-large sewing bed rn. F.A.S.T. automatic needle threading system rn. F.A.S.T. bobbin winding system rn. Front spool rn. Operation panel rn. Presser foot leveling button rn. Presser foot pressure adjustment rn. Quick-set bobbinrn. LED displayrn. Direct setting key (Reinforcement /Needle position (Up/down) )rn. Presser foot leveling buttonrn. Presser foot pressure adjustmentrn. Maximum Sewing Speed 850spmrn. Wider work spacern. 2 LED lights.

One of my long-time students uses this Singer , a basic, strong machine which has a heavy duty motor allowing it to sew through materials of any thickness. Great if you plan on working on a lot of denim, heavy wool or even lightweight leather. It’s about $399.

Singer CG-590 18 Stitch Commercial Grade Freearm Sewing Machine CG590, 60% Stronger Motor, 1100SPM, Bartack Buttonhole, Drop Feed, Top Bobbin,Threader

Singer CG-590 18 Stitch Commercial Grade Freearm Sewing Machine CG590, 60% Stronger Motor, 1100SPM, Bartack Buttonhole, Drop Feed, Top Bobbin,Threader

25 -Year Limited Warranty rnPeace of mind from a 25-year limited warranty on commercial, school and home use.rnrn. Faster Sewing Speed rnUp to 1,100 stitches per minute – faster than a standard sewing machinern rn. Stronger Motorrn60% stronger than a standard machine, making it easy to sew light to medium to heavier interior apparel or drapery fabrics with regular threads, not upholstery or exterior fabrics which require upholstery machines and thread. rnrn. Exclusive Electronic Foot ControlrnGuarantees consistent speed with no jump starts. Includes a regulating dial that allows for slower speeds, regardless of the pressure applied.rnrn. Steel Plate On Machine BedrnProtects against damage from sewing pins, a feature particularly beneficial for quilting.rnrn. Duratec™ FramernA SINGER exclusive that provides rigid support and prevents rusting.rnrn. Jam – Resistant Bobbin CasernFloating bobbin case prevents thread jams, even when sewing on sheer fabric or no fabric at all.rnrn. Finger GuardrnProvides additional protection for fingers around the needle area, a real benefit during high-speed sewing.rnrn. Double InsulatedrnProtects against shock by creating a barrier between the operator and the machine’s interior electrical components.rnrn. Suction Cup Machine BasernHolds the machine securely to the table, even when sewing at maximum speedrnrn. 18 built-in stitch patterns rn. 4-step buttonhole rn. Motor is 60% stronger than standard machine rn. Faster speed – up to 1,100 stitches per minute rn. Free Arm rn. Stainless steel bed plate rn. Suction cup machine base rn. Drop Feed rn. Automatic Needle Threader rn. Variety of Built-In Stitches for Fashion, Home Décor and Quilting rn. Infinitely Variable Stitch Length and Widthrn. Multiple Needle Positionsrn. Automatic Reverse Buttonrn. Snap – On Presser Feetrn. Thread Cutterrn. Built- In Carrying Handle for Portabilityrn. Automatic Pressure Systemrn. Cabinet Mountablern. Stretch Stitches for Strength and Flexibility to Seamsrn. Balance Adjustment Lever for Perfect Buttonholes and Stretch Stitches.

This Singer is a good mid-range machine for home sewers, with 70 stitches, a one-step buttonhole, and automatic needle threader. For about $199 it’s got everything you’ll need to sew efficiently and stress-free.

Singer 7466 AutoTension, 70Stitch 120Function FULL SIZE Computer Sewing Machine, 3x1Step Bartack BH & KEYHOLE (UPG from 7256 7422 7442 7462 7436 7463)

Singer 7466 AutoTension, 70Stitch 120Function FULL SIZE Computer Sewing Machine, 3×1Step Bartack BH & KEYHOLE (UPG from 7256 7422 7442 7462 7436 7463)

Same as Singer 7467 Confidence as shown in Videornrn. The SINGER® 7466 is a fully electronic sewing machine and offers a large variety of stitches (70 stitches, 120 stitch functions) for construction, fashion sewing, quilting, heirloom, crafts, home decorating and decorative sewing. Other features include One-step automatic buttonholes, 13 needle positions, automatic needle threader and more.rn rn. It has a full range of utility, decorative, quilting, heirloom, and stretch stitches. rn. Each stitch is electronically formed and optimally set, which means every stitch is sewn with exact precision. rn. You can even do free motion work with its drop feed feature. rn. The SINGER® 7466 also threads quickly and easily with its 6-Second Threading System. rn. And with Pushbutton Stitch Selection, even selecting a stitch is a snap.rn. Class 15J Bobbins – Are you familiar with the class 15J bobbin? This is a special class bobbin used in the 7400 series of machines, as well as the Futura (CE-100) and Quantum Futura (CE-200). Do not use regular class 15 bobbins in these machines, they will cause tension problems and can damage the bobbin case. The 15J is slightly smaller than the regular class 15, and the edges have a slight curve towards the center. The part number for this bobbin is 085128.rnrnrnClick here for the chart of Included Accessories&Features.rnClick here for the Stitch Referencernrn.

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