Anyone here know anything about sewing machines?

[NickB79]

I'm looking to purchase my wife a new sewing machine as a gift, and a friend of mine who's done a LOT of sewing suggested this: http://www.ebay.com/ctg/Brother-CS6000i-Computerized-Sewing-Machine-/64056208

Does anyone have any input on this brand? What is Ebay's return policy if my wife doesn't like it?

Thanks!

[Motown_Johnny]

1. Why not get her a new mop and a pretty new bucket?

I'm kidding.... sorry

I know nothing of sewing machines.

[cbayer]

2. I just bought a Brother computerized machine and am very happy with it.

http://www.sears.com/brother-sewing-machine/p-02016611000P?prdNo=3&blockNo=3&blockType=G3

I got a great deal at Sears because they were about to introduce a new line.

I was amazed at how far they have come since the last time I had one. Everything is easier and I haven't even begun to explore all the features.

I did some research before I bought and found that Brother had the best consumer reviews overall.

What kind of sewing does your wife like to do?

[NickB79]

3. Thanks! She likes to make blankets, baby stuff, etc

Right now she's looking into making homemade diaper covers. She wants to learn how to sew clothes from a pattern, but she's never done that before and doesn't know anyone who can give her hands-on assistance.

[cbayer]

5. This machine would work well for the things she wants to do.

It can also do quilt stitching and decorative stitching. If you go a step up, you can get one that does letters and things like that.

If you have a local fabric store, they often have classes for beginners. Some of the pattern makers, like Simplicity, also have "Learn to Sew" patterns. I just bought a couple and found them really easy to use.

Anyway, it's a great gift idea and she will most likely love it.

[Manifestor_of_Light]

6. There are lots of books on sewing.

One example:

http://www.amazon.com/Readers-Digest-Complete-Guide-Sewing/dp/0895770261/ref=pd_sim_b_2

[cyberswede]

4. eBay sellers have different return policies...

you should contact the seller for specifics.

For example, This particular seller has a 30 day money back (buyer pays return shipping)
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Brother-60-Stitch-Computerized-Sewing-Machine-CS-6000i-/320939922194?pt=BI_Sewing_Machines&hash=item4ab9829312#ht_5525wt_1000

Sorry I can't comment on the machine - I have a 25 year old Singer that I use.

I hope your wife gets a chance to sew some clothes from patterns - it's fun!

[HopeHoops]

7. Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic. For example, sewing machines.

[handmade34]

8. I would recommend not buying from ebay

that machine is available many other places...
http://www.amazon.com/Brother-Affordable-60-Stitch-Computerized-Free-Arm/dp/B000JQM1DE

I always suggest not going too cheap or it will be discouraging (I suggest no Singers but Brother is not a bad brand)... nothing like a smooth running machine and if she gets to love it, you will have to buy her a serger (a must for fun and productive sewing). Baby Lock is a very nice machine, as well as some Jukis.

I used to sew professionally and this is the machine (Husqvarna 100Q) I just bought to carry with me on the road and it is awesome... (approx $499) I love to sew, just ask if you have any questions...

http://www.husqvarnaviking.com/us/25554.htm

[wovenpaint]

11. As a textile person, I second the Husquvarna machine!

I have a Husquvarna Emerald...
If she is going to be using the sewing machine regularly, I also agree not to buy too cheap a machine. It needs to have some weight to it. The lower priced machines are mainly plastic (throwaway, imho) and don't hold up well in the long run. Parts break, etc.
It's well worth the investment to spend more for a good sturdy machine in the first place, than to keep replacing them-or trying to find a repair shop.
Brother is ok-or how about a gift certificate so she can go to go try different ones out first?

Good luck!

P.S. yeah, you might want to start saving for the serger, lol. (same applies with these-I have a Baby-Lock)

[grasswire]

9. I use a 47-year-old Kenmore that runs like a top!

It has never needed servicing, just a replacement belt once. It has been used by three generations for quilts, clothes, curtains, pillows, baby things, art projects, and more mundane mending.

The old machines were better made, like everything else.

I would bet that your local fabric shop could tell you where to find simple sewing classes.

[whistler162]

10. I hear it is a girls best friend....

[KT2000]

12. Seamstress here

I would recommend you make a nice little card or coupon that entitles her to a sewing machine (maybe a $ amount included).

There are so many different features and some are important to some and not to others. For example:

how is the bobbin rewound?
Is it neessary to remove the bobbin for winding?
How is it threaded?
Does it have a needle threader?
Does it make good buttonholes? (most do not)
Does it have a feature to keep the needle down when stopped?
How easy or difficult is it to change stitches?
Does the machine vibrate when running at a good speed?
Does it have a flat surface or a curved surface? (personal preference)

Try some out a sewing machine stores and Joanne Fabrics.

Anyway, she may want to be involved in the selection.
Just a thought.

[Jericoni]

13. Re: Sears and Walmart good places for this

I think Sears and Walmart are good choice which can give you best idea about the price according to different brands machines. But you should check more then one store to make a decision.

[hrmjustin]

14. Welcome to DU!