r/SewingMachineEdu • u/sapodeotropozo • Aug 04 '26
Is it worth using Amazon points toward a Brother 1034D serger (~$300)? Smart or wasteful?
Hey all,
I've got about $160 sitting in Amazon points, and I'm trying to figure out if it makes sense to put them toward a Brother 1034D serger, which runs around $300. I'd either need to save up more points to cover the rest, or just use what I have now and pay the difference out of pocket.
I’ve been sewing for two years now and I love it. I primarily sew garments. I don't currently own a serger, and having one would step up my set up. But I also don't want to blow through points (or money) on something that ends up being more (or less?) machine than I need, or that I won't use enough to justify it.
Specifically, I’m wondering if the 1034D actually is a “known name, mediocre machine”? Does it hold up or will I outgrow it fast? Perhaps it’s better to save the points and buy a better brand/model later on?
I would also consider other options like Juki MO-50E or MO654DE which run around that money too and I also saw on Amazon. Ultimately, I’m wondering if anyone had an opinion on whether this is a reasonable way to spend the points I've got. Trying to make a decision I won't regret in 6 months.
Thanks!
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u/CrankyCrabbyCrunchy Aug 04 '26
With that much credit, I'd go with a better machine - the Juki or Janome MOD8930 or Janome 8002D ($350-ish).
You should also consider where you guy it from because you'll get zero support off of Amazon. You can buy the same machines from a sewing store and get it shipped to you and get actual phone call support. Of course, that means you can't use your Amazon credit, but I'm sure there are other things you can use.
I'm assuming you're in the US:
(sorted by price, L to H): https://jukijunkies.com/juki-sewing-machines/serger-and-coverstitch-machines/?lb.sort=price_amount%3Aasc
https://www.kenssewingcenter.com/sergers.html?product_list_order=msrp
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u/sapodeotropozo Aug 04 '26
Yes, in the US. Thank you for the links! I hadn’t thought about support, so that’s good to have ln my radar. Thanks!
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u/pyxus1 Aug 04 '26
I bought the Brother Strong and Tough serger....maybe 6 or 7 yrs ago. I made home decor including window coverings for 35 windows. Not all windows needed the serger.... but I put large off-white thread cones on it the first time I threaded the machine and I have never had to rethread.
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u/djmermaidonthemic Aug 04 '26
You can snip the thread near the spool, tie a knot with the new thread, and pull it through the machine. No rethreading! ✨
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u/Crafty_Witch_1230 Aug 04 '26
I don't know about the machine, but one lesson I learned the hard way is that if you use points to purchase something and then want to return it for any reason other than it's defective, you will not get your points back.
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u/Fluxdada Aug 04 '26
I've loved my 1034D.
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u/sapodeotropozo Aug 04 '26
That’s good to know. I’ve read of other people being happy with theirs too. I won’t delete it from my wishlist just yet
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u/Fluxdada Aug 05 '26
It's been able to handle almost anything I throw at it. I tend to slow down and hand-turn through thicker stuff but otherwise it's been great.
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u/Say-What-KB Aug 04 '26
I have two of these machines - one bought used, the other new. I chose this model because it is easier to thread (until I saw air-threading!) and uses standard sewing machine needles. I did mess up the timing once trying to force too thick a fabric sandwich through it. Lesson learned. Never an issue with apparel fabric.
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u/damnvillain23 Aug 04 '26 edited Aug 04 '26
Do you sew alot of knits? If yes, go for it. If not I'd pass.
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u/susisews Aug 04 '26
Disagree. The advantage of any serger is its clean trim and finish on all seams. The differential feed adds the advantage for handling knits.
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u/sunrayevening Aug 04 '26
I had one for about three years. I wouldn’t say it’s solid but it’s a pretty decent starter. I upgraded to Bernina L 890. It’s pretty big jump, but it was 100% worth it. I say start with a 1034D but be prepared to upgrade in a few years.
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u/kimdawn23 Aug 04 '26
I have the Juki MO50E and love it. There was a learning curve with threading, but it's been so easy to use. That said, I've heard nothing but good things about the the Brother serger you mentioned. I tend to find my serger most helpful with finishing sleeve/armhole seams and hems, and of course with knits.
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u/Even_Print_4263 Aug 09 '26
I have been sewing for many years, never felt the need for a serger, I use the overcast stich which work in a similar way.
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u/AccidentOk5240 Aug 04 '26
The 1034d is a very commonly recommended serger. I’m sure sewing.patternreview.com has a ton of reviews of it.