Alright guys we are currently discussing the idea of unifying the sewing machines. This would come at a cost but in the long run this is a good decision for us. Meaning buying several of the exact same machines up at Makerspace.
Easiest for class instruction, same items accessories for each machine & maintenance. If you would like to make a suggestion of a machine to be considered please post a link below.
Looking for: durability, simple stitches, front loading bobbin, durability did I mention durability, needs to be under $200/250 possibly more for the right machine.
We have no need for a million different stitches. We now have two different leather/heavy fabric machines.
Possibilities: “industrial” machines that can have slower motors
Would like to: talk to the manufacturer for possible “maker sponsorship” to see if we could get a discount. Just an idea.
I heard. It’s unfortunate and I’m trying to fix the issue as fast as my little fingers can fly. I would rather spend money on new machines that have at least a year warranty - the money we save by buying used would be returned with headaches.
I don’t know about you but I want to lessen headaches and complications here.
Do you have a suggestion on a model?
I’m sorry I can’t recommend make/model personally but I do have a couple questions. First, are you considering getting rid of the Babylock embroidery machine since it will no longer be one of your “standards”? Second, does this mean you will turn away future donations that don’t match the “standards”?
“Best of the Best” Reviews recommends the Singer 4423 Heavy Duty Machine. It gets high marks for durability, and is available on Amazon for $120 (with 11 different stitches) or $127 (with 23 stitches). It has free shipping. I personally think this is a ridiculously low price. I know you don’t need many stitches but this price doesn’t seem to include much of a premium for that. “Heavy Duty” apparently refers to the stability of the metal frame; it’s not a leather-sewing machine.
This has a simple drop in top bobbin. Why did you insist on a front-loading bobbin? I’ve owned lots of sewing machines but never one with a front-loading bobbin.
It’s only negative was its alleged high price but since Amazon is discounting it from the $270 retail to this $120 price, I think that’s a non-issue.
The other comment I will make about the Singer (and yes, I’ve owned one in the past) is that I personally think it’s a great beginner’s machine. It’s easy to understand, easy to use, and importantly … it’s most likely compatible with what a beginner is likely to buy for themself. I personally think it’s intimidating to learn on something exotic and then have to start all over when you buy something different at home.
P.S. (added edit) There are a bezillion places to get Singers repaired, too.
1.No baby lock stays - It’s a great resource for us and I know it’s value.
2.It depends - I’m writing both singer and janome to see if they would be willing to sponsor the sewing corner here at makerspace - it’s a total long shot but I think with the maker movement and a bit of positive press they might be interested. I’m experienced in begging for things. If they sponsor (again, a long shot) we might need to take a look at what they say.
3. I agree singers are a good choice and a solid brand. I’m a fan of a metal frame myself. We now have two machines that are able to sew leather - so we don’t need to consider anything over the basics. We are looking for something that doesn’t confuse or “over offer” honestly as a sewer I use probably four different stitches tops. I think bells and whistles are just that - bells and whistles.
4. Ease of use. I’ve only owned front-loading as well.
5. Yes, and I’m courting someone to be a member who has formerly worked in a sewing factory and can repair/maintain all the sewing machines for us.
The only industrial machines I’ve ever used (they are AWESOME) cannot be described as slow. Most have a continuous duty motor that is running all the time, and the sewing speed is controlled by a clutch. Lots of finesse and skill required to not punch a hole in your hand.
I don’t think an industrial machine should be used for introductory purposes. They’re serious.
I personally like the Janome Magnolia as a sewing machine. But, they are not currently on sale so the price was in the $350 range right now. It is a dead simple sewing machine that does a really good job. We have one at the office that we use for all our sewing. My mother use to take it with her to the high schools to teach costume making to the kids. Just a good machine.
In all honesty, if you get a machine with limited stitches you will probably get a really good machine. the extra features and stitches added to a machine are often the down fall of the machine. The singers at that price are nearly disposable. I would suggest the version with the least amount of optional stitches. You want these to be work horses not a Corvette. They will be run hard and put up wet.
My brother happens to work at a Janome dealer and sent me the following:
“I read they are looking for a front load so a necchi HD 22 because it is built like a tank. But the machines that we put in schools that survive students is the top load Janome 2014. With a Janome top load machine you cannot thread lock the machine. So they are great for beginners.”
The Janome HD3000 is another machine that he would recommend, though all three of the choices mentioned are a little more then your listed budget. He did have a lower end Janome in mind that is within your price range and is still a good machine, but it will not take quite as much abuse as the others.
