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Writer's pictureHeidi Sapere

Top 3 questions: How to buy a sewing machine

Updated: Jun 29, 2023

How to buy a sewing machine!

Where's the best place to purchase a sewing machine?


Girl sewing at her machine

Have you ever wondered why buying from big box stores like Target, Walmart, and Amazon might not be the best option? The answer is simple - quality. These stores usually stock machines made with plastic parts, which tend to break down faster than those sold by reputable dealerships that only sell machines built with metal frames. While you may have to spend more at a dealership, you'll walk out with a high-quality machine built to last.


Consider the difference between buying a bike at Target versus your local bike shop. For instance, I once tried to replace my 50-pound Bernina sewing machine, which was too heavy to move, with a back injury. I purchased a computerized Singer on Amazon, which had great reviews and cost around $400-500. However, the machine malfunctioned within a week, and I had to send it back. That experience taught me the importance of buying sewing machines from reputable dealerships with reliable products and customer service.


Another example is a friend who bought a Brother Serger from a reputable dealership and purchased the same machine online when it started to wear and tear. The online machine had multiple issues that had to be fixed, while the first had no problems. This shows that even if you buy the same machine, the quality may differ depending on where you purchase it.

While Covid has led many reliable retailers to enter the online shopping market, ensuring that you only buy from reputable dealerships that are transparent about their return policies is crucial. By doing so, you can be sure that you'll get a high-quality machine that will last for years.



Why should I buy from a retailer with skilled technicians inside the building?

Sewing machine with tools

Having an in-house technician means you have access to someone who can help you with any issues you may encounter with your machine. Instead of sending your device away for repairs, you can take it to the shop, have someone look at it, and fix it. This saves you time and frustration; you can talk to the person working on your machine face-to-face instead of over the phone.


Additionally, an in-house technician is knowledgeable about the machines they sell. They can help you choose the suitable machine for your needs, answer any questions, and even provide tips and tricks to improve your sewing experience.


Investing in a quality machine that will last you for years to come is essential when it comes to sewing machines. Purchasing from a shop with an in-house technician gives you the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have access to support should you need it. You won't regret it!


Why is it essential to try out the machine by sitting down and using it before purchasing?


Sewing machine on table

Sewing brings much joy and satisfaction when you get the right sewing machine for you, so trying one out is crucial before you buy it, especially your first machine. If you live far from a place that sells machines but have a friend with one, see if you can sit down at their machine to try theirs out. Every machine and brand is a bit different.

There are a few reasons why this is important. Firstly, sewing machines can be expensive, and you want to save money on the right one. When you try out a sewing machine, you can get a feel for how it works and whether it's easy to use. This will help you to make an informed decision about which machine to buy.

Secondly, different sewing machines have additional features, and choosing one with the parts you need is essential. For example, if you plan to sew many heavy fabrics, you'll need a machine with a powerful motor. If you plan to do a lot of embroidery, you'll need a device with many stitch options. Even for beginners, sewing machines come in computerized and non-computerized versions. Some also vibrate more then others when operating them, especially cheaper machines. Will the machine's vibration affect your sewing experience? I've noticed that my $200 Hello Kitty Janome vibrates more than the $450 Janome HD 3000. It's a good idea to test out different machines to determine which features are necessary and which ones can be overlooked.

Finally, trying out a sewing machine can help you to avoid making a costly mistake. If you buy a machine without trying it out first, it might not be what you expected. It might be too difficult to use, or it might not be suitable for the kinds of projects you want to work on. By trying out a machine before you buy it, you can avoid these kinds of problems.


In conclusion, if you're considering buying a sewing machine, it's important to try one first. This will help you to make an informed decision about which machine to buy, and it will help you to avoid making a costly mistake. So why not head to your local sewing shop and try a few machines today? You might just find your perfect match!

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