I see a lot of questions online in sewing groups and forums on the topic of the best sewing machines for beginners.
Most of the time, the replies all gush over the longevity and reliability of older sewing machines. Whether it is an Elna Grasshopper or a Singer 27, their age and beauty attest to their sewing prowess.
Many commenters will stress the importance of a beginner using a vintage sewing machine. Not because of how easy they are to sew with. But, because of what they are made of.
The general consensus is, being mostly metal, vintage and antique sewing machines are hardworking and will last so much longer than today’s expensive plastic models.
Which isn’t necessarily true.
Especially when you remember that plastic machines have been around for over 40 years… so are just as likely to be vintage.
The thing is, some vintage sewing machines can be finnickity to use. I’m thinking of Grandma here, she’s my antique treadle. She’s quirky to use. I’ve mentioned in previous posts that she and I have had words. Sometimes very strong, unrepeatable words. We work through it and come to an understanding.
She sews and I treat her with kid-gloves.
Problem solving sassy sewing machines with more than a dash of age-related attitude is a walk in the park.
If you know how to sew.
But what if you don’t? What if you’ve never used a sewing machine? Or sewn a seam?
Should a beginner sewist use a vintage sewing machine?
It depends.
What we’re really taking about isn’t the difference between vintage and modern. Or even metal and plastic. It’s whether beginners should buy a second hand machine.
Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of second hand vs new to see if there is a stand-out winner between the two.
Second Hand Sewing Machines
Vintage or older sewing machines all have one thing in common. Regardless of when they were made, they are all second hand. Or pre-loved. Some of them to within an inch of their lives judging by the state they are in!
Sometimes they will have been in the same family for a couple of generations.
They can come in a range of conditions from used and abused to immaculate and well-oiled. Some have parts missing like the foot pedal, the presser foot and the accessory tray. Others come with so many accessories, the manual and a gleaming paint finish, they almost look brand new.
Most of the top brands we know and love today have a model or two that can be purchased second hand. Whether they are the cast iron versions from Grandma’s day or the plastic machines of the 1990s, second hand machines are available in abundance. So much so, it can be difficult to find the right one for your sewing needs.
Before we get into the pros and cons of buying vintage, or rather second hand, let’s take a look at some of the things you need to watch out for.
Value For Money
What price you pay for a second hand sewing machine is determined by a number of factors. The age and condition of the machine, how rare it is, your location and what accessories come with it.
Remember, being old doesn’t necessarily mean valuable. There are plenty of older machines, many from the pre-1990s that aren’t worth more than $30 or so. Yet, sellers will happily set the price at $150 or $200. Simply because they are old.
That’s the machines not the sellers!
The trouble is many older machines aren’t particularly rare. Sewing machines have been mass-produced for decades. With so many available, it keeps their value down.
Having said that, if you are looking at a pristine model with a fiddle base from the 1880s-1890s, it could set you back more than the price of a brand new machine. But with less of the usability and functions.
If you’re in the market for a second hand machine, consider what your sewing needs are. Functions, features and ease of use will give you more for your money. Both are more important than the age of the machine or what it’s made from.
Functionality
Second hand sewing machines cover all types, styles and brands. Each one will have different features. To work out which one will help you learn, you need to figure out what you want to sew.
It can be difficult to guess what it is you’re looking for. How do you know what type of sewing you like until you’ve sewn with a machine?
As a general rule, garment makers need a free arm, buttonholes, the ability to install zippers, and a range of sewing feet. Newbie quilters might only need a straight stitch machine with adjustable feed dogs.
But why limit yourself? Depending on how new you are to sewing, I’d recommend going for a machine that gives you the chance to do more than just the bare minimum you need for one task.
A good second hand machine is one with basic functions including straight stitch, zigzag, an automatic buttonhole and a small range of decorative stitches. Buy the best you can afford with more functions than you need. That way, you can grow your skills and not be held back by an overly simple machine.
Availability of Parts
One of the biggest problems with second hand machines is the availability of parts. From needles to bobbin replacements, if the machine is too old, you may struggle to find the necessary accessories to make it work.
Many
older sewing machines have parts missing. The accessory tray, the
presser foot, even the foot pedal can all disappear. Sounds like magic doesn't it? What it really means, the parts got taken off and have been lost.
If you are looking at a machine, regardless of its age, and it has anything missing – walk away! If you don’t know if all the parts are there, walk away. As a beginner, you don’t need the extra hassle of trying to find elusive replacement parts when you’re learning to sew.
Stick with machines that are complete and make sure the parts are still readily available before you part with your cash. If you don’t know what a sewing machine should come with, take someone with you who does!
If you can’t do that - buy new!
Over Restored Machines
This refers to the bling factor. Some restorers take an older machine, such as a Singer Featherweight from the 1950s, and restore it. Only, instead of keeping to the original paintwork and taking steps to protect the patina, or signs of age, they’ll completely re-vamp the machine.
The
problem with over restoration, it removes any value the machine may
have had due to its age. Becoming just another machine, the
historical credence is wiped away along with the original decals and lacquer.
Using modern shades of paint from bright pink to psychedelic, they will repaint the machines to appeal to a modern aesthetic. Now, instead of paying the true value of the machine, you’re paying for the renovation.
I’ve seen some featherweights going for $700 to $1000 simply because of the snazzy paint job.
Seriously, they aren’t worth that much.
A Singer Featherweight is actually a fairly basic machine. Made from aluminum, it’s lightweight, and easy to take on holiday or to classes.
Incredibly small, their functions are limited. They are straight stitch only machines and unable to handle larger projects due to the lack of sewing space.
You’re looking at $300-$400 tops. Personally, I wouldn’t even pay that. Not for a Featherweight, in my opinion, they aren’t that usable.
Not for my sewing needs anyway. Especially when you can get a Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 for nearly the same price with more functionality!
When you’re looking at a second hand machine, ignore the paint work and avoid the bling factor. Keep your needs in mind and buy a machine based on what it can do. Not what it looks like.
Now let’s get into the pros and cons of buying second hand or vintage:
Pros
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Nostalgic and romantic, you can “feel” generations of sewists sewing along with you
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Many are built from cast iron or steel making them robust and hard wearing
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Can be a cheap alternative to a modern machines
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No computers means less to go wrong
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Simple functions
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Easy to clean and oil if needed
Cons
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Can be expensive for what they are
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Limited functions
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Can be tricky to thread
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Many don’t have numbers to show tension level or stitch length
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Can need re-wiring or a new motor
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Some have parts missing
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Can be complicated to use
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Tend to be mechanical – you have to turn the hand wheel to get the needle up or down
Brand New Sewing Machines
Modern machines come in all shapes and sizes. With some designed specifically for certain tasks like embroidery. Others are combination machines making them ideal for the general sewist who sews clothes, quilts and the occasional decorative stitch.
Coming in a range of prices, there are machines to suit every budget and skill level. Packed with features and functions, computerized models can help take some of the confusion out of sewing. From automatic buttonholes, to automatic needle threading, they are simple and easy to use.
Finding a modern machine needs the same level of research as a second hand machine. You need to know what you want to sew, the functions you need, and your level of expertise.
Don't worry about them being computerized! Some of the best modern machines are mechanical. Take the Singer HD 4452, for example:
This one is a good all-round general sewing machine. Capable of performing heavy sewing with fabrics like denim, it can also be used for quilting, as well as day-to-day repairs.
The Brother CS6000i is an ideal machine for a beginner.
Budget friendly and with plenty of built-in stitches for even the simplest of projects, this machine can take you from beginner to advanced and still be your number 1 choice for sewing. Professional sewists use this one. It’s that good!
Or how about the Janome DC 1050
With speed control, 500 Built-in stitches and a needle up/down button, it's slightly more advanced than the Brother but still an excellent starter machine.
Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of modern machines:
Pros
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Many modern machines don’t need oiling
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Easy to thread
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Bobbins are simple to use
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Can handle modern fabrics
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Needles, spare bobbins, extra feet are all readily available
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Automatic buttonholes, threaders and thread cutters
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Push button needle up and down
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Come with a warranty
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May come with free lessons if buying from a sewing machine dealer
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Will all come with an instruction manual. Some also have a DVD
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Can be mechanical or computerized
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Some combination machines will sew and embroider
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Many smaller models are a lot lighter than older machines
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Some have metal frames encased in plastic outer shells for stability
Cons
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Can be expensive
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Some machines are better suited to advanced sewists
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Can be hard to find a sewing machine dealer for your preferred make close by
Conclusion
At the end of the day, the choice between second hand and brand new is up to you. The only thing that matters is whatever sewing machine you go for meets your sewing needs.
A sewing machine is a tool to aid you on your sewing journey. It should never be a stumbling block, nor should it hold you back.
Check out both old and new machines before making your final choice.
Why not consider a trade-in model at your local sewing machine dealership? You may find you get the best of both worlds.
Trade-ins are usually tested and will have been serviced before being put up for sale. Better still, they may even come with sewing lessons!
Bye for now
Olly
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