Tips for choosing a sewing machine for all types of fabrics for home use

Choosing a modern sewing machine is not that easy. The market is saturated with such a variety of manufacturers and models that it is very difficult to make a specific choice without professional advice. The quality and result of the work will depend on the technical characteristics of the machine, and the state of the family budget will depend on the price. The article provides information and advice on how not to make a mistake in choosing and choose a machine specifically for yourself and your needs.

Tips for choosing

When choosing a sewing machine, professionals advise paying attention to the following factors when deciding how to choose a sewing machine for home use for all types of fabrics:

• the type of fabrics you will be working with most of the time;
• number of lines;
• the need for automation;
• model of the car;
• manufacturer and reviews about it;

According to experts, the following selection criteria were identified:

• control type;
• type of shuttle device;
• functionality;
• equipment.

Repair and components

When choosing a machine, you should pay attention to how easy it will be to repair it:

• Will there be a specialist in the city if there is a breakdown?
• Will there be spare parts and components for this model?

If the answer to both points above is negative, then it is worth considering whether you need a model that, when it breaks for the first time, will remain standing in the corner for a long time, waiting for repairs.

Therefore, when choosing, you need to pay attention to the following criteria:

• the ability to make repairs yourself or with the help of a professional;
• availability of spare parts and components;
• possibility to order components;
• popularity: it is easier to find spare parts (and order them from the manufacturer) for more well-known options. But if the manufacturer is little known or leaves the market altogether, then such repairs will become problematic.

Maximum stitch length. Zigzag stitch

Each version of the machine has a stitch length adjustment function to ensure proper sewing.

When choosing, you should pay attention to the following points:

• the stitch length regulator should be up to 5 mm;
• The presence of a zigzag width adjustment function is preferable.

Necessary sewing operations

For an ordinary amateur, the following set of functions is sufficient:

• performing at least six basic types of stitches: straight, overlock, blind, zigzag, elastic;
• the ability to adjust the stitch length and width;
• automatic adjustment of the foot pressure depending on the thickness and type of fabric. With this function, the seam is neater and the work speed is higher;
• the presence of an overlock foot and a zipper foot;
• the presence of a fabric puncture stabilizer and a reverse locking function;
• backlight.

Among the desirable but optional features are:

• decorative embroidery function;
• presence of a container for threads;
• a set of replacement feet. Although if they are not available, such a set can always be purchased separately.

Which machine is better to choose, a computer or an electromechanical one

In modern stores you can find mainly two types of machines:

• electromechanical;
• computer.

Advantages of electromechanical options:

• optimal and low price;
• sewing machine for beginners with overlock;
• inexpensive repairs.

Flaws:

• limited functionality;
• may not work equally well with all fabrics.

Advantages of computer options:

• belong to the professional level;
• ideal for those who sew a lot and often;
• wider functionality;
• able to work with a larger number of fabrics more efficiently;
• the lines are more even;
• the stitching speed is higher.

Disadvantages of the options:

• high price;
• it will be difficult for an inexperienced person to work;
• The repairs are very expensive.

Preferred type of lower threading

There are two filling options: horizontal and vertical. Here's what you should pay attention to when choosing:

• Machines with a horizontal version are more functional, they have more stitches;
• Machines with a vertical shuttle are more reliable and break down and fail less often;
• The vertical shuttle is suitable if you plan to use the machine for sewing thick fabrics.

What is the difference between a household sewing machine and an industrial one?

The main differences between the two types of machines are as follows.

Household option:

• won't handle a large amount of work;
• won't handle complex types of work;
• is characterized by an increased number of operations and functions: straight stitch, zigzag, loop processing mode, etc.

Production version of the machine:

• used in production;
• usually performs only one operation;
• performs one operation efficiently;
• performs a huge amount of work per day;
• durability and reliability are guaranteed.

Which sewing machine to choose for beginners

The variety of manufacturers and brands of sewing machines on the modern market is amazing.

However, when choosing a manufacturer, you should pay attention to time-tested and reliable ones. It would not be superfluous to read the reviews of real buyers.

When choosing, you need to follow the golden rule: “price-quality”.

Among the most popular and reliable manufacturers are:

• Praff, Husqvarna: quality options, professional models. But expensive in terms of price and repair (maintenance);
• Brother: a popular brand for many years. There are reviews about the poor quality of the pedal control and stitching;
• Janome: the best combination of price and quality. Beginner needlewomen have many positive reviews;
• Astralux: budget. But many bad reviews about the quality of lines and speed of work.

Where to buy a sewing machine

There are so many options for purchasing a sewing machine that you can choose between delivery conditions, discounts, promotions, level of service, and store reliability.

Popular methods available:

• Internet. Most large hardware stores sell household goods, including a wide variety of sewing machines. The websites usually provide all the specifications, descriptions, photos, and reviews. You can choose an interesting option based on the rating.
• Specialized store. An experienced seller will tell you about all the advantages and disadvantages of a particular model, show you, give you the opportunity to touch it, and you will be able to tactilely determine whether this option is suitable.
• Avito. Recently, one of the popular options for making purchases. You can find high-quality and good options at a significantly reduced price. But there is always a risk of buying a pig in a poke. Therefore, you should take a person who understands sewing machines to the transaction to check the functionality.

Horizontal shuttle or vertical

Most modern models are equipped with a horizontal shuttle. Thread tangling during sewing is excluded, as well as its breakage. The sounds emitted are much quieter. However, this type of shuttle is used on conventional options suitable for intermittent work.

The best sewing machines

The rating of the options presented below will help answer the question of which sewing machine to choose for home use for all types of fabrics.

«Astra Lux 7350 Pro»

Among the advantages of this model, according to customer reviews, we can name:

• the presence of significant functionality and capabilities;
• presence of a display with prompts;
• silent operation
• quality of lines;
• ease of control;
• It is more related to professional options.

According to customer reviews, the disadvantages of the model are:

• non-rigid case.

«Janome DC 4030»

Reliable and high-quality in execution.

Among the advantages, according to customer reviews, are:

• 30 types of operations;
• computer control;
• low price;
• many functions;
• famous brand;
• set of paws

According to customer reviews, the disadvantages are:

• made of plastic;
• creates increased noise;
• is capricious at work;
• It is difficult to sew thick fabrics and denim.

"Brother INNOV-'IS 950 / 950D"

Among the advantages, according to customer reviews, are:

• many functions and features;
• convenient small sizes;
• availability of embroidery capabilities;
• many settings;
• quality stitches

According to customer reviews, the disadvantages are:

• restrictions on the types of fabrics used;
• Doesn't work with thick fabrics, doesn't work with jeans;
• not suitable for professional purposes.

"Janome Decor Computer 3050 / Decor Computer 504.5"

An ideal option for creativity.

Among the advantages of this model, according to customer reviews, we can name:

• 50 types of operations and 23 types of lines;
• large selection of stitches;
• overlock function;
• speed control;
• easy to manage and use;
• quiet to use;
• not capricious at work;
• Automatic execution of 3 types of loops;
• silent operation.

According to customer reviews, the disadvantages are:

• does not always cope with dense and thin fabrics;
• not enough paws included;
• short cord.

«Janome 419S / 5519»

The best option is with an electric drive.

Belongs to the electromechanical type.

Among the advantages of this model, according to customer reviews, we can name:

• 19 sewing operations to solve all household problems;
• the ability to perform an automatic loop;
• availability of various lines;
• works with different types of fabrics;
• sewing machine for denim;
• presence of regulators;
• free sleeve function;
• Included: a bunch of accessories;
• Low price

According to customer reviews, the disadvantages are:

• The swing type of shuttle slows down the speed and tangles the thread;
• requires constant care.

«Elna EasyLine 12»

Belongs to the electromechanical type.

Among the advantages of this model, according to customer reviews, we can name:

• 15 sewing operations;
• stitch length adjustment;
• vertical shuttle;
• powerful;
• universal option;
• low price level;
• easy to operate;
• high quality assembly;
• performs its functions efficiently.

According to customer reviews, the disadvantages are:

• there is no hard case;
• small in size;
• the conveyor is not blocked

«Brother Comfort 40 E»

Among the advantages, according to customer reviews, are:

• reliability and convenience;
• quality of work performance;
• 40 types of seams;
• multifunctionality;
• quiet;
• inexpensive in price.

According to customer reviews, the disadvantages are:

• problems with thread tension;
• low sewing speed;
• does not always take thick fabrics;
• plastic case.

Bernina B 750 QE

Among the advantages of this model, according to customer reviews, we can name:

• ease of use;
• power;
• high quality sewing;
• wide range of operations;
• many possibilities.

According to customer reviews, the disadvantages are:

• only one extra foot;
• the price level is high.

Singer Stylist 7258 Features

Refers to the electromechanical version.

Main functions:

• all functions of clothing sewing;
• embroidery;
• creation of quilted products;
• creation of home decor items;
• 10 paws included;
• automatic coil winding;
• software control over raising and lowering the needle;
• 7 types of loop execution;
• speed control;
• Automatic needle threader.

Among the advantages of this model, according to customer reviews, we can name:

• the best price-quality ratio;
• suitable for both inexperienced and professional seamstresses;
• 100 stitch options;
• quiet;
• easy to use;
• stable in operation;
• well-thought-out functionality and interface;
• quality of operations;
• full automation;
• sewing using a double needle;
• detailed instructions

According to customer reviews, the disadvantages are:

• The presser foot pressure is automatic and cannot be adjusted at will;
• Stitch width is limited to 6 mm;
• plastic pedal design.

Brothers Innov-is NV1800Q Features

The machine is a computer-controlled variant.

Main functions:

• device for sewing in a circle;
• 4 functions of the foot pedal;
• volumetric embroidery;
• 5 sewing feet in a set;
• automatic thread tension adjustment;
• automatic threading;
• 10 types of loops;
• 232 types of stitches;
• embedded fonts;
• the ability to sew leather.

Among the advantages of this model, according to customer reviews, we can name:

• design and appearance;
• function of creating your own type of line;
• liquid crystal display;
• easy setup;
• a huge number of lines.

According to customer reviews, the disadvantages are:

• large size;
• heavy;
• sensitive touch panel;
• It's difficult to work with knitwear.

Brother Artwork 31

Among the advantages of this model, according to customer reviews, we can name:

• takes any type of fabric;
• power;
• foot pressure adjustment;
• 31 operations;
• many lines;
• average price level for this segment of machines;
• quiet operation;
• automatic needle threader;
• horizontal shuttle.

According to customer reviews, the disadvantages are:

• weak body;
• few decorative lines.

Janome My Style 100

Among the advantages of this model, according to customer reviews, we can name:

• machine speed control;
• three replaceable feet;
• elastic and overlock stitches

According to customer reviews, the disadvantages are:

• the built-in light bulb is a bit weak (20W);
• no cover;
• few paws.

Janome 2212 Features

Among the advantages of this model, according to customer reviews, we can name:

• ease of use;
• sews well, even stitches;
• transparent paw.

According to customer reviews, the disadvantages are:

• low walking speed;
• difficulty working with thick fabrics;
• plastic parts.

Bernina Bernette B35

Among the advantages of this model, according to customer reviews, we can name:

• reliability and ease of use;
• many operations;
• build quality;
• ease of control;
• all necessary functionality;
• sewability of materials.

According to customer reviews, the disadvantages are:

• the width of the zigzag on the loop is not adjustable;
• weak light.

Aurora Style 3

Belongs to the electromechanical type.

Among the advantages of this model, according to customer reviews, we can name:

• 10 sewing operations;
• quiet;
• smooth starting mechanism, easy running;
• build quality;
• ease of use;
• sews different fabrics well;
• stitch adjustability.

According to customer reviews, the disadvantages are:

• swing shuttle;
• shuttle thread tension;
• narrow illumination zone.

Jaguar Mini 236

Among the advantages of this model, according to customer reviews, we can name:

• low price;
• multifunctional;
• easy to operate;
• Suitable for household use.

According to customer reviews, the disadvantages are:

• lower quality of execution;
• small size;
• some operations.

It is possible to choose a reliable, functional machine for yourself. But you need to take into account a number of parameters that are required in each specific case. Taking these requests into account, you should choose a model on the market, which is abundant in variety. It is best to pay attention to the rating of the most popular models in the price segment that the seamstress is targeting.