From: mcm@kuhub.cc.ukans.edu
Newsgroups: alt.sewing
Subject: Re: choosing a sewing machine
Date: 18 Aug 92 16:59:30 CDT
Organization: University of Kansas Academic Computing Services

In article <1992Aug18.164524.42425@kuhub.cc.ukans.edu>, mcm@kuhub.cc.ukans.edu writes:
> In article <9208172154.AA00488@marny.Corp.Sun.COM>, Marina.Salume@Corp.Sun.COM (Marina Salume) writes:
>>>I'm interested in quilting, machine embroidery, and sewing (clothes,
>>>crafts, etc.).  Can anyone update me on what the sewing machines can do
>>>nowadays (I'm 10 years behind the times), and recommend some good sewing
>>>machines for what I'd like to do?  I'm looking for a machine that I'd
>>>be happy with for maybe another 10 years. :-)
>> 
>> Take a look at your local dealers who sell Pfaff, Bernina, New Home, and
>> Elna, along with the more well-known Singer and Sears brands. (anyone want
>> to add any more names to that list? Those are the ones I checked out before
>> I bought mine). All these manufacturers make fairly complete lines of 
>> machines in all price ranges, from $400 or so up to $2500. So a lot depends
>> on how much you can afford. The basic types are "mechanicals" and "elec-
>> tronics" (the new computerized machines, which start at around $1000 or so. 
>> 
>> But you also want a dealer who can provide
>> service and maybe even classes, someone who will include the accessories
>> you want for no extra charge when you buy a machine, etc. Be aware that
>> "manufacturers suggested retail price" will vary depending on the dealer,
>> so there is no "real" price out there--you're can bargain just
>> as if you were buying a car. 
>> 
>> Test drive all the machines you can before
>> you buy, that way you'll feel comfortable with whatever you buy and with 
>> the dealer you buy from. (the first time you see a machine make automatic
>> buttonholes, you'll be ready to buy it on the spot. But after you see ten
>> machines do it just as well, you won't be so easily impressed :-)
> Melissa> 
>> --marina
>> 
> I would add Viking for at least 2 reasons.  First, I adore mine.  Second, their
> stitch quality is the same for all their machines, regardless of the cost.  The
> higher you go in the line, the more features you get.  But if you want just a
> solid reliable quality machine, you can choose the bottom of the line.  Third,
> (I knew I would end up with more reasons once I got going!) the force of the
> needle through the fabric is the same regardless of the speed the machine is
> going.  If you want it for quilting you will be going through a thick layer. 
> You want to be sure that the machine has to power to get through it all without
> forcing you to race along and use that momentum to get the needle through. 
> Fp paying 40% off the retail price.
I'm sorry - I keep using the wrong backspace key, which I use in all other
situations except when I post and it always screws up my post.  Even if I get
it looking right, it comes out wrong when I send it.  So, that last line once
read:  Fourth, be sure to bargain.  I visited all my local retailers and
compared deals and ended up pushing hard enough to get 40% off the retail
price.  The deal I swung was to buy both a sewing machine and a serger, both
top-of-the-line.  A friend bought the serger (now I wish I had one but that
purchase will come someday).  If you get creative, you might be able to get a
better deal.
 
Xref: sparky alt.sewing:2438 rec.crafts.textiles:1493