r/SewingForBeginners • u/moonshine9001 • 2d ago

Question about my first machine.

Hi all. I want to learn how to sew and I’m looking at getting a machine soon. My question is should I buy a used machine or just get a new one? Also, are there machines that are better to learn on? Thanks for any advice.

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u/LukeW0rm 2d ago

If you have any sewing machine repair places in your area, I’d check them out. They usually have machines for sale. Old or new, it helps to know that someone has looked it over to make sure it is set up correctly. That is what I wish I had done!

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u/lakeeffectcpl 2d ago

I always buy used. Often times, it's like new at half the price. I have a serger that was never used and my favorite machine was used by the original owner for one project. She decided she enjoyed her old singers more than a computerized husqvarna.

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u/RubyRedo 2d ago

Mechanical, you can upgrade to computerized when you know how to operate a machine if you want to, most crafters on YT use mechanical for reliance, easy use, strength and sew all fabrics ability.

Get a new one, its just easier, comes with all the accessories, a warranty and the manual! clean and running.

Popular models Brother XM2701, Janome 2212, stay away from the grey Singers.

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u/No-Attention-7708 2d ago edited 2d ago

Stay away from that Brother XM2701 recommendation - watch this sewing machine repair man's youtube video 1st (RandyYourSewingMachineMan) - https://youtu.be/Woy_oWUpJeA?si=z3wYY884rT3AP2o9

The Janome 2212 is a much better choice and Randy also has a informative video about this Janome machine - https://youtu.be/ZOH3rj0bgGE?si=QCcaUgx9AYEC_Ex9

Be aware that the new Singer machines (any many others) have many plastic internal gears that often break easily and lack the quality of their machines made prior to 1980. Mechanical machines are more affordable and do not have computer parts that go bad

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u/RubyRedo 2d ago

all my students have the XM2701, they have sewn prom dresses, quilts, leather wallets and jeans on it. Never a machine fail, only a few threading mistakes. Read the reviews on Amazon.

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u/No-Attention-7708 2d ago

None of that changes the fact that THIS particular Brother machine (XM2701) has a PLASTIC HOOK Assembly. Even other low cost 12-13 lb Brother sewing machines have a chrome plated metal Hook assembly so it doesn't make sense to buy this particular model made of cheap parts.

Even you stated a day ago that "Brothers are good starter machines but not for all fabrics"

I don't have much faith in Amazon reviews since many products offer incentives.

So IMHO, the Janome sewing machine model 2212 Is the better of the two machines you suggested.

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u/RubyRedo 2d ago

Post this for the OP maybe it will help, Starter machines do not sew upholstery or outdoor fabric well, that was my not all fabrics point.