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Erin · 08-26-2009, 09:13 AM

I wouldn't suggest Overstock.com. How is that better than buying used? I'd rather have a higher quality used machine than any machine from a discount store. The "Singer" machines at WalMart are not the same quality as "Singer" machines at a dealer. My machine is under warranty but the problems I have are just because it's a lower end machine, like not having enough power to sew through many thick layers, which then messes up the timing. And mine was $600, not cheap but definitely not comparable to a $3000 Bernina. And it replaced my cheap Kenmore, which was only 2 years old. I started with that machine and it frustrated me so much that I hated sewing. Since I want to do think layers, a better option actually might be a vintage Singer since those can be found in the under $200 range. So used machines are a great option as long as you do your research.

Seriously, sewing machines are like cars. Would you rather have an entry level BMW or a top of the line Chevy? Or would you rather have a 3 year old Lexus or a new Kia? It's all personal preference, but it's more than just the features on the outside. The actual hook system and motors in the expensive machines are higher quality.

I got the embroidery machine because my husband wanted me to do his company's logo and thought I could make a business around it. Without the fancy software, we were unable to digitize his logo. (You can send it out to be done, design by design, for like $10-20) If you are planning to use it for high-volume, it's extremely time consuming to hoop it and re-thread it for each color. Commercial machines remain threaded with multiple colors and are meant for high volume. The home machines, even the $8000 ones, are for LOW-volume. It's a huge PIA to change mine over from regular sewing to embroidery. I even have to use a screwdriver to change the foot. It's great for people who want both but don't have the space for 2 machines, but there are drawbacks. I would have rather put my money into a regular sewing machine, that's all.

Honestly, I've found it's faster to applique than to embroider something. And cute too!

08-26-2009, 09:13 AM	#9
Erin Donating YT 1000 Club Member Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Chicago Suburbs Posts: 3,306	I wouldn't suggest Overstock.com. How is that better than buying used? I'd rather have a higher quality used machine than any machine from a discount store. The "Singer" machines at WalMart are not the same quality as "Singer" machines at a dealer. My machine is under warranty but the problems I have are just because it's a lower end machine, like not having enough power to sew through many thick layers, which then messes up the timing. And mine was $600, not cheap but definitely not comparable to a $3000 Bernina. And it replaced my cheap Kenmore, which was only 2 years old. I started with that machine and it frustrated me so much that I hated sewing. Since I want to do think layers, a better option actually might be a vintage Singer since those can be found in the under $200 range. So used machines are a great option as long as you do your research. Seriously, sewing machines are like cars. Would you rather have an entry level BMW or a top of the line Chevy? Or would you rather have a 3 year old Lexus or a new Kia? It's all personal preference, but it's more than just the features on the outside. The actual hook system and motors in the expensive machines are higher quality. I got the embroidery machine because my husband wanted me to do his company's logo and thought I could make a business around it. Without the fancy software, we were unable to digitize his logo. (You can send it out to be done, design by design, for like $10-20) If you are planning to use it for high-volume, it's extremely time consuming to hoop it and re-thread it for each color. Commercial machines remain threaded with multiple colors and are meant for high volume. The home machines, even the $8000 ones, are for LOW-volume. It's a huge PIA to change mine over from regular sewing to embroidery. I even have to use a screwdriver to change the foot. It's great for people who want both but don't have the space for 2 machines, but there are drawbacks. I would have rather put my money into a regular sewing machine, that's all. Honestly, I've found it's faster to applique than to embroider something. And cute too!