How To: Choose the best sewing machine

Whether you want to save money by making your own clothes or you just enjoy working with fabrics, choose the best sewing machine so your projects turn out great.
You Will Need
* A sewing class
* A budget

Step 1: Check out machines at local shop
Visit your local sewing or fabric shop to see what machines are available. Machines come with many different features. Consider the type of stitching, number of needles, threader, buttonholer, and presser foot. Look for downloadable patterns and features that allow you to turn simple stitches into hundreds of other options.

Step 2: Determine projects
Determine what kinds of materials you'll be working with the most. Tapestry or denim requires a sturdier machine while silk, jerseys and cottons do just fine on lighter, often less expensive machines.

Step 3: Decide where you're going to sew
Decide where you're going to put your machine. If it's something you'll pack up after each use you'll want a lighter-weight, more mobile one – along with fewer add-on accessories.

Step 4: Determine budget
Determine your budget and decide which machines fit your dollars. Consider a used machine to get a better model or one with additional features.

Step 5: Go for a test drive
Take the machines you're considering for a test drive. Make sure that the foot pedal is comfortable, you can easily thread the bobbin and needle, and all the buttons and levers are easy to use.

For a more extensive test drive, sign up for a sewing class.

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Step 6: Make sure you have the operator's manual
Check that you have the operator's manual after purchasing your machine. It may come in handy.

Fact: Some of the first home sewing machines were powered by a hand crank. The foot pedal was developed later to free up both hands.