Sewing Recommendations For Beginner?

[Patsy33]

I'm thinking of buying my first sewing machine. I need a new interest. Can anybody here recommend a good make that has sufficient workings for what I need? Not too bulky. Thank you. 😀

[Tilly2]

What sort of things would you like to do Patsy?

[Patsy33]

Nothing too ambitious, Tilly! Perhaps start with mending, taking up hems. Then when I get more confident, perhaps make simple things like pillow cases, bags. I need to practice. Then maybe if I get a liking for it, go onto more advanced things, like  making clothes??? 🤔 

[Tilly2]

This one has good reviews, Patsy. Looks nice and simple.

https://www.sewingmachinesales.co.uk/sewing-machine/brother/brother-l14.html?srsltid=AfmBOop-GJImqZYZFeEhwwgikVtDxq-hPDEYbZj9Fk1L8zEBlE4U-lx1

[Tilly2]

It might be cheaper on Amazon.

[bhg481]

Avoid buying one that does a lot of complicated stitches - you almost certainly won't use them. A zig-zag stitch is essential for sealing a raw-edge and for buttonholes and zips if you start to make simple clothes. I would recommend you go to a local sewing machine shop and look at a few machines and take advice from them; they should let you try some to see how they feel and how to thread it and load the bobbin etc.

[bhg481]

Tilley's recommendation looks good; Brother have a good name. I'd still go and look at one in a shop as the "feel" is important.

[Patsy33]

Thank you Tilly & bhg.

I like the look of that one Tilly. In my price range too. I'll look on Amazon later 😃

[Togo]

[Tilly2]

Wrong, Togo. It's diamonds, not sewing machines.

[Tilly2]

[Patsy33]

I'll let you know, Togo! 😄

I like your version better, Tilly!.. 😁

[Barmaid]

I can't recommend one (because I can't be bothered to get mine out), but I bought a Brother one about 10 years ago thru Groupon for less than 100 quid.

 

Tbh for basic stuff you can go with pretty much anything. But the fact that mine will thread the needle is the biggest bonus.

[Barmaid]

And using my machine, I sewed all the swags and decorations for my wedding in 2019. It paid for itself that year since I did all the trimmings myself for less than a 10th of what I was quoted!

[Barmaid]

Just looked at Tilly's suggestion and that looks pretty good to me.

[Patsy33]

Thank you Barmaid. 😀 

[rowanwitch]

I have two, a fancy quilting one and a cheap as chips Aldi one..... The Aldi one( 29.99) has a few embroidery stitches, is light weight with a really responsive power pedal. Until you are sure its the thing for you something like that would be a good starting point.  If you want to buy a better one,new home do some good basic ones. My last one lasted nearly 40 years just a new belt in that time.

[Patsy33]

Thanks for that advice Rowan. 😀