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How Much Should I Pay For a Sewing Machine?


If you are passionate about sewing, investing in a good sewing machine is no simple task. There are a lot of makes and models for you to choose from, each designed to do specific tasks really well.

Depend on your budget. There are good sewing machines across all price points. You should also think about how you intend to use the sewing machine and the most important features you want to have.

When it comes to buying a sewing machine, let your budget, experience level, and the type of project you are working on determine how much money you spend on it. Here is a closer look at how to determine how much money you should pay for a sewing machine.

Why are sewing machines expensive?

The price of sewing machines varies depending on the model and its features. More expensive sewing machines have more advanced features compared to cheaper models.

1. The attachments that come with the machine

The attachments that come with your sewing machine influence the cost of the machine. When purchasing a sewing machine, you should consider the attachments that come with the machine and the ones that have to be purchased separately.

Having a selection of presser feet to choose from for your sewing is really convenient. For basic sewing, it is convenient to have a selection of presser feet with different width. This is invaluable especially for the zigzag stitch and when switching between seam allowance widths. If you intend to make clothing, you should consider getting a machine with a zipper foot, a blind helm, and a buttonhole foot as standard attachments. For quilts, you should get a walking foot or a freehand embroidery foot if you intend to freehand quilt. 

If your sewing machine does not come with the attachments you like, you could purchase them separately. Normally, the attachments do not cost a lot. However, it is important to confirm how easily attachments such as feet can be changed before making a purchase.

2. Mechanical vs computerized

The price of sewing machines also varies depending on whether the machine is mechanical or computerized. Most of the high-end machines available are fully computerized with programmable stitch sequences and touch screens. However, they are expensive, and depending on your budget, you should ask yourself whether you really need a computerized machine.

Modern designs of mechanical machines tend to be lighter than their older counterparts. They have less parts and are more portable. This makes them a suitable choice especially if you need to take it to classes or do not have a dedicated sewing area. They are also easy to maintain and cheaper to service.

Although they may not be as convenient and versatile as their computerized counterparts, mechanical sewing machines are capable of handling basic sewing tasks. They therefore, make good starter machines. The older models, especially, are easy to master and are durable due to their heavy weight. In addition, you can find reputable models of mechanical sewing machines at a reasonable price because of the competition they face from computerized models. 

It is, however, important to note that most of the good machines are electronic or computerized. They have stronger motors hence extra power. This makes them capable of functioning properly under constant use and with heavyweight fabrics. They also tend to have superior stitch lines that are more evenly spaced and stronger.

Both the fully computerized sewing machine and the hybrid models, having both mechanical and computerized features, provide you with more sewing options than mechanical models. Computerized sewing machines can be programmed to remember specific stitch sequences. They also offer a wide selection of embroidery and decorative stitches as well as thread cutting and automatic tie-offs.

The choice between computerized and mechanical sewing machines depends on your budget. However, if you are going for a mechanical sewing machine, you should go for an older high-end model instead of the cheaper plastic models. Even though they can only perform basic functions, the older mechanical models are a lot more durable.

3. Noisiness of the machine

The price of the sewing machine also depends on the amount of noise it produces. Most people do not consider this when buying a machine, but the amount of noise your machine produces significantly affects how and when you use it.

For instance, if you only have time to sew in the evening, it may be challenging to get work done. This is true especially if you have young kids who are in bed. You may also get complaints from neighbors due to the noise.

If your work rate may be affected by the noise produced by sewing machines, you should consider getting a quieter machine. Although quieter machines may be more expensive, you’ll be less worried about the noise you make while you sew.

4. Brand of the sewing machine

The brand of the sewing machine also plays an important role in the pricing of the machine. There are only a few reputable brands that reign supreme in the industry. Not all brands are equal. Sewing machines are made with different parts inside.

The reputable brands of sewing machines include Singer, Brother, Janome, Kenmore, Viking, Juki, and Bernina. These brands make sewing machines with varying price ranges. Some of them are affordable. However, most of these brands pride themselves in producing high-end sewing machines. Bernina sewing machines, for instance, rarely cost under $300.

Low-end sewing machines are mainly made out of plastic. They are also made with smaller motors, hence have less power. These models aren’t durable and tend to break down after a short time. They are also unable to withstand frequent stitches.

Should you buy an expensive sewing machine?

Here is a list of the most important things to consider when deciding how much you want to pay for a sewing machine.

1. Experience level

Your level of experience in the world of sewing should play a major part when purchasing a sewing machine. It is better to start with a simple machine. Buying an expensive sewing machine right of the bat is impractical. Expensive machines are often more complicated and are designed to accomplish more complex tasks. Simple machines, on the other hand, are ideal for beginners as they are designed to handle basic tasks.

If you are a skilled seamstress, however, you should get a more advanced machine. Although they are more expensive, advanced machines are capable of handling more complex tasks. You should look for a machine that can handle all the projects you plan to work on comfortably.  

2. Types of project

You should also consider the types of projects you’ll be working on. Depending on your project, you may not have to purchase an expensive sewing machine even if you are experienced. If you intend to focus on embroidery, you should get a machine that delivers the best results in the field. If you are working exclusively on lightweight clothes, you may not need a machine that can also embroider. On the other hand, if you intend to work on complicated designs and thick fabric, you may need the help of a programmable sewing machine. 

3. Durability of the machine

The cost of sewing machines also varies depending on their durability. This is an important factor to consider when choosing between an expensive and cheap sewing machine. You do not want your machine to break down no matter how much you paid for it. A good sewing machine should last decades. Most people assume that the more you pay for a machine the more it’ll last. This, however, is not always the case. Before buying a machine, you should do a lot of research on that particular build of the model. Apart from the details from the manufacturer, you should also read the product reviews.

4. How often do you intend to use the machine?

It is also important to consider how often you will be using the machine. To answer this question, you need to be honest with yourself. You need to consider your schedule. Most people are only able to sew after work or on weekends.

With this in mind, there is no need of getting an expensive sewing machine if you are only going to be using it a few times a month. If you do not intend to sew frequently, getting an expensive machine might not be a good investment. However, buying a good electronic sewing machine may make your sewing experience more pleasant, encouraging you to sew more often.

Before you buy a sewing machine, it is essential to recognize your sewing expectations.

5. Your budget

Perhaps the most important factor to consider before buying a sewing machine is your budget. If you are unable to purchase an expensive sewing machine, don’t. You may also want to take into account whether or not buying a new machine would be a financial investment. If you believe that buying an expensive sewing machine would bring value for money to your business, you should then go for it. 

Final Thoughts

As you can see, it is important to put a lot of thought into purchasing your next sewing machine. The amount of money you end up spending should depend on your budget, needs, and capabilities. You should be able to afford the machine and it should satisfy your sewing needs. If the machine falls outside this bracket, you probably shouldn’t get it.

Melanie Asiba

Melanie is an author, and she enjoys traveling, reading, and trying out new things. In addition to writing for Apartment ABC.

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