Sewing Machine Buying Guide - Four
Steps
Have you been thinking of
getting a sewing machine but didn't know what
to look out for, given the many different
brands, styles, models and prices available
nowadays? It's understandable. After all, the
sewing machine is one of the most hefty
investments you'll probably buy for your sewing
room and hence it's natural to feel a little
anxious and lost with all the information
available.
To help you with this, here
are some guidelines to look out for when
choosing a suitable sewing machine:
(1) Plan The Usage of The
Sewing Machine
Ask yourself, what do you
intend to use the sewing machine for? Is it for
sewing new shirts for your husband, making
quilts for the baby or embroidering elaborate
designs on your new hankies? Whatever your
specific reason may be, always remember this.
Sewing machines are designed for different
purposes and getting one that meet your
requirements is the crux of a good buying
decision. Don't get something just because your
neighbour has one or you'll end up with a white
elephant!
Next, take a look at the
space available in your sewing room or the
corner of your house where you'll be placing
the sewing machine. Is it large or small? Are
there electrical ports available? Knowing this
will in turn help you decide if you need a
sewing machine that's electric, mechanical,
computerized, compact or simply serger.
(2) Research On the Brands
& Models Available
Once you've a general idea
of what you probably need, research on the
brands or models of sewing machines which
specializes in that. For example, if
embroidery's your thing, googling for that will
direct you to brands like Husqvarna Viking etc.
Check out the models they offer, their features
and of course, the price ranges.
Take a look at some of the
customer's feedback to see if there's anything
particular to feel good or bad about a certain
model.
(3) Decide On Your
Budget
By this time, you'll have a
general idea of how much the sewing machines
that fulfil your needs, costs. Decide how much
you can and are willing to spend. The range can
vary from under $100 for a basic model to over
$7,000 for a machine that does almost
everything except cutting out your fabric. Be
firm and don't fall into the trap of buying
something because you think you "might" need
them. Go for something you know you'll
definitely use once you hand over your credit
card to the cashier!
(4) Test Out the
Machine(s)
Shortlist a few sewing
machines you may want to buy and pop by for a
trial at the nearest local dealer. Or the place
of someone whom you know owns the machine. Test
out the stitches and features that you'll be
using with samples of fabric you work on most
often.
At the same time, check out
with your friend or the dealer about its
durability, warranty, ease of replacing parts,
cost of servicing, upgrades etc. If you're
checking with a dealer, do remember to ask if
they offer free sewing classes as a purchase
bonus.
(5) Make The Purchase
Once you've decide which
machine to get, making the purchase is the
easiest part. You can buy it from your local
dealer or online via reputed distributers. Some
online distributors offer great discounts or
bargains because of their lower operating
costs. However, do make sure such savings are
not overridden by an unfair return policy or
hefty shipping costs. Know your rights so that
you'll have a much enjoyable online purchasing
experience!
|
