Inside CR Test Labs: Sewing machines

One of the busiest spots these days in our Yonkers, New York, headquarters is a lab in which you'll find four people sitting among hundreds of swatches of cotton and bolts of chiffon, corduroy, and denim. They're not reviewing washing machines or laundry detergents but are diligently testing sewing machines for our upcoming report (see photo, right).

In early September—which happens to be National Sewing Month—the testers were making straight and zigzag stitches and buttonholes on cotton swatches to gauge ease of use for the machines. One tester repeatedly had to refer to the owner's manual, scratching her head as she tried to figure out how to use one of the machines. (Just like our readers, who have been clamoring for a report on sewing machines, our testers have varying levels of sewing experience.)

We're testing 18 different models, including some from brands your grandmother knew and one that's familiar to project-oriented fashionistas who keep an eye on the runway.

We're checking out mechanical and electronic machines, some with a foot pedal, others without. Some machines have automatic threaders, eliminating the tedious job of having to thread the needle. My vision's still pretty good, but an automatic threader seems a worthwhile feature.

One electronic model even has an LED screen that displays videos with step-by-step instructions. It's a lot quicker than reading a manual or calling your mom. Note that we conceal the brand and model information from testers so that they remain objective.

Our full report on sewing machines is scheduled for the March 2009 issue of Consumer Reports, on sale and online in February. Until then we'll keep you updated on our testing. To tell us what you're looking for in a sewing machine, post a comment below.—Kimberly Janeway

February 2009 update: Our report on sewing machines is now available online. Find the best sewing machines in this report.

Essential information: Read our free buying advice for sewing machines.

Comments

[Fred]

I bought a Singer 2000 for my wife over 30 years ago, and talked the sales person into throwing in the electrical and mechanical repair manuals for free. She then sewed drapes and other home decor to get me through college, so I'd call it commercial, not home use. I'm an electrical engineer, so I intended to do all repairs myself, but I've never even opened the manuals. I've wanted to buy her another machine, but she won't let me until the old one breaks. What's a loving husband to do?

By the way, fellow consumers, modern plastics are much superior to metal in many applications, so you shouldn't base quality estimates on how much plastic the machine contains.

It's too bad you don't collect reliability data for sewing machines, the way you do for cars, but I'm wondering if there's another way to predict reliability? In the aerospace business, we are able to project mean-time-between-failure (MTBF), but there's a lot of costly engineering work behind it (our $600 toilet seats are VERY reliable).

[Bette Laswell]

I've been sewing for years. Don't want to quilt. Don't want to embroider. I want to make excellent, stylish clothes and home decor. I need a new machine, and I can't get the information I need, so I'm grateful you're doing the job I can't do. I sew on lace, on spandex, on heavy cottons, on a wide variety of knits, on velvet--you get the idea. It would be nice to get a fabric rundown along with the basic information, but I'll appreciate whatever you do.

[Jenni]

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I have been using my White Sewing machine since 1968, it still works like it is new and I still love it. (I have been sewing since I was 12 and am now 57)But, I have a new grandchild on the way and would love to start sewing again the way I did when my kids were little. My machine doesn't have a free arm or do anything fancy beyond zigzag stitches so am looking at getting a new machine. Will wait patiently for your review, it is arriving just in time. On a side note, I have used your reviews to purchase my washer, dryer, refrigerator and most recently my vacumn. You haven't disappointed me yet. Keep up the great work.

[Melissa]

Oh, thank goodness! My mom wants to buy a machine but does not have money to play around buying the wrong machine. Please, please, please find us a good machine for $200; I know you can do it!
We want: easy threading (for older eyes ;-); easy bobbin winding; variety stretch stitches for knits; automatic buttonhole; a few decorative/heirloom stitches; good satin stitch; well-lit sewing area; decent user's manual.

[diannaybailey]

I'm looking for information to purchase a serger for the first time. I can't afford the Babylock, with the jet air threading; which I would love to own but can't afford. I can't find information on recommendations, repair issues, or anything else on sergers anywhere.
Could you test sergers, please?

[Anne-Marie]

How do I find the ratings of mechanical sewing machines? I need to decide between repair/replace on a tiny budget.

[judith church]

How can I find out what the best one to buy? Do you have any rattings for a low to mide price one the will do embroidery plus regular sewing, button holes,zippers & so. I need to buy one right away, like this week. The one I had for 30+ years has broken. I need one to finish a job right away. Can you give me any info.? Please help.

[Felicia Nestor]

Please evaluate the thread tension features. I grew up sewing on a Singer that enabled manual adjustments of both top and bottom thread tension. When the top or bottom thread would become "loopy" we could make an easy adjustment so that stitches were again normal. (My mother is still using this machine 40 years later).

About 10 years ago I bought a Sears machine. After only several months the thread tension went out of whack and I could not make manual adjustments. I had to take it in for repair. Sears offered a $40/year repair contract. But every time after I had the machine repaired, the first time I would sew, the same tension problem would occur almost immediately (I was only sewing on relatively thin cotton and not on any fabrics that would have posed a challenge). The repair center was 30 minutes away and repairs took up to a week or more. I finally gave up and will wait for your reviews before purchasing a new machine.

[Joan]

I have owned an Elna 9000 for approximately 19 years and just loved that baby. I could control one stitch at a time with my foot. Suddenly the lever to take up the presser foot has broken and I'm told the repair could cost as much as $500 or more. The plastic or resin they used isn't holding up well, so the repair person said. I am so disappointed and am going to have to buy a new machine. I want to be able to do applique stitches, garment sewing and quilt projects, as well as household items. I do have a Kenmore that's about 32 years old that's a real workhorse, but it doesn't have that delicate touch I love for fussy sewing. Just reporting on a problem in case you are assembling data for repairs. The Elna my parents bought when I was 15 is still working at my son's house. That makes it about 50 years old. I don't know if I should buy another Elna or what brand.

[Carol]

This will be great!! My first machine was a Singer T&S and I still use it. I've had good luck with used Singers (yard and estate sales are excellent sources) and have given away two of them to relatives who wanted to start sewing. I look forward to the review to find out what I have been missing in the newer machines.

[Tammy]

I would like to see recommendations on your reviews of
"Best for home decor projects"
"Best for garment construction and repair"
"Best for embroidery/sewing"
"Best overall"
It would also be nice to see them compared by pricing classes

Thanks,

[becky crabtree]

This for my Mom who is stressing about buying a NEW sewing machine. Her work horse is a singer 643 whose age is 40+ and was bought used. She's been looking at the Viking models and is somewhat impressed - but may have to wait to see what you say about the new kid on the market. Of course the sales people down any other machine out there. She is not into quilting or the like - more the drapes, upholstery and vinyl materials. Hurry up February issue.

[maggieb]

I bught a Kenmore sewing machine and it's lasted over 31 years and I really use it. It just died, I bought another kenmore and hope it lasts Half as long

[Ms. Marlen Cole]

I AM LOOKING FOR A GOOD HEAVY DUTY MACHINE THAT WILL SEW CANVAS, DENIUM, LEATHER AND ALSO FINE MATERIAL SUCH AS SILK, ETC. ALSO, I WOULD LIKE AN AUTO THREADER, EMBRIODER AND QUILTING FUNCTION. I WANT THIS MACHINE TO NOT BECOME OUTDATED, AS I AM OLDER PERSON AND WISH TO PASS IT ON TO A YOUNG FAMILY MEMBER LATER ON. ALSO I WOULD LIKE IT TO BE COMPLETE WITH IT'S OWN CABINET FOR STORAGE, ETC. SO YOU CAN SIT AT THE SEWING MACHINE AND NOT HAVE TO MOVE IT TO A TABLE TO USE IT.

L. COLE

[Karen Meyer]

could we have a review of long arm quilting machines? There are so many and the cost is enormous, I don't want to make a mistake.

[Lisa]

Please review sergers as well. Thank you.

[Dianna Y Bailey]

I would like a comparison of sewing machines that have automatic tension, and can sew lightweight chiffon as well as several layers of heavy weight fabrics with ease and without making any adjustments. I think that most self adjusting sewing machines are suppose to be able to do this. I could not wait for you to review sergers so ended up buying a babylock without knowing all the details and comparisons. I checked to see if you compared sergers but you hadn't. I just recently learned that you are suppose to change a sewing machine or serging needles after every three or four outfits or projects you make? I'd always thought you use the needle until it bends or breaks. I just learned that's not true. It would be nice if you could include that kind of information with your reports. Thank You.

[Roxie N]

I am interested in a sewing machine (not quilting maching) that can be used primarily for quilt piecing and quilting. Please compare a mechanical with the electronic for this purpose. I have a mechanical machine, but I have never used an electronic machine. My mechanical machine skips stitches, jams, and has poor stitch quality. (I had this problem even when the machine was new, it is now over 15 years old.) I want to buy a new machine, but I don't know if the difference in features and performance between the electronic and mechanical machine is worth the additional money. Please evaluate this in your review when it is published. Thanks....

[Marlene Oaks]

I'm considering the Bernina 830 or the Babyloc Ellisimo. I can't seem to find info on a comparison. Are you going to compare them soon?

[Lorraine Connelly]

I like to quilt and have a fairly expensive foreign made machine. The basic straight stitch is not straight. It tens toward the right at its bottom. Has been in and out of
repair but now is out of warrantee and the machine would have
to be replaced. The thread makes a difference alos.

Can't wait until your report comes out.

[Ann Haverkamp]

I came to CR for immediate info on Janome machines. I saw them for the first time the other day. My other question is: Are the mini machines any sturdier, better designed, than they were 40 years ago? I noticed minis by Janome and Brother. Just wondering, but very interested in the ratings outcomes! I am surprised this is a first endeavor, but I guess those of us who sew kept quiet a little too long! Anyway, thanks for all of your work. My husband and I use CR all the time!

[Susan]

I'm so glad you're going to be posting the results of sewing machine testing in March 09. Although I will have probably purchased a machine by then from what I hear you sometimes have more than one for your different uses.

I am interested in quilting. I'm a new quilter and it's important to me that the machine will handle the heaviness of a quilt without much trouble. Also I will need the machine to be easy to use; with easy instructions but at the same time not be the very basic variety machine. I'm willing to spend maybe up to $300 dollars on a machine.

Thanks for asking my input. I must say I am disappointed that you don't have studies done now, as I just purchased a year of CR for the results on sewing machines! But I'll hang in with you for a few months and see if CR helps in other ways.

Susan

[Tim]

I'd like to see test on handheld sewing machines.

[Meilli Shire]

I am interested in a machine that can sew stretchy fabrics as well as very thin filmy fabrics that do not bunch into the needle hole . What keeps the knits from pulling out of shape while sewing. Please test these difficult to sew fabrics. All machines can sew stiff cotton fabrics, the ones that sales people use to demonstrate sewing machines with. Those are not a valid tests. How about rolled hems on a chiffon fabric.
Thank You, Consumer Report people, I so appreciate your honest reports.

[Kim Shaw]

I have had a Pfaff computerized machine for 12 years (bought it used at a dealership). It has been a wonderful machine. My Mom owns Bernina machines and I much prefer my Pfaff. It has the best built in quilting foot and an automatic threader. I have never had any problems with it. I put so many hours on it, that it has to be cleaned every 3-6 months! I mostly quilt and craft but repair a lot of jeans and other clothing. Other than routine maintainence, have had no repairs or issues. If I every need to replace it, I will be looking for another Pfaff.

[Elizabeth]

I am interested in price and quality and avilability of chain stitch machines. I have a Babylock serger that I LOVE. However, the model that I have does not do a chain stich. I would like to know more about standalone chain stitch machines.
I think about getting a new mechanical sewing machine with a more decorative stitches than the one I own, but I don't want to bother if it won't be good quality. I like my machine, but have no idea how to compare it to what is available now it would be great. If you have any tips on how to compare quality of a new sewing machine compared to an old one it would be helpful to some of us. I know that is a tall task!

[Elizabeth]

Please also talk about the cost of and the amount of maintenance needed on mechanical vs electronic sewing machines.

[Terry Barnard]

I am looking for a dependable (good repair history) embroidery machine that will download embroidery patterns via computer. I have noticed that Brother makes serveral embroidery machines at lower than average prices, and which have good features. My problem is that I have had problems with Brother printers and other Brother brand items, and have little confidence in the brand. How can I find out if these Brother embroidery machines are reliable and durable?

[elizabeth]

As someone is looking for a new machine I would like to thank those who wrote in giving advice on what we should look for in a machine.
I would prefer a mechanical as I have found that I can generally maintain them my self.
I also like to keep my machines for a long time. A fabulous maching is a great money saver and encourages you to further your sewing skills.

[Tabitha]

I would like to know about stitch regulators, how effective they are and whether or not they're worth the extra cost.

[Karen]

I am interested in ratings for sewing machines for kids. That first sewing machine is so important. Especially when you are trying to learn. It will either turn you on or off to sewing.
I want to know the best "starter machines". Ones that are simple, easy to use, sturdy, and really work well.

[Mary]

I need a machine that will sew threw thick fabric, multiple layers. I do historical clothing construction, such as corsets. Every machine I've had I start by snapping the needles, and then bending something out of alignment.

[p. lang]

tell every one to get themselves a little singer feather weight - nothing fancy but a workhorse that keeps going and going. i have owned pricy bernini, pricy pfaff and their reliability is awful. would never invest in them again. thanks

[Deidre]

I too am eagerly awaiting the March 2009 report reviewing sewing machines. Did you test Bernina's "Bernette" sewing machine? Any chance the report can be posted on ConsumerReports.org prior to the print publication? (We subscribe to both.)
Thank you!

[Katherine Meares]

I miss my old Singer Touch and Sew which was great until the plastic parts got old, brittle, and broke. I got a Necchi which has been not satisfactory. I want one that is trouble free for general sewing-- straight and zig-zag. One that will not jam and make a mess. I use all types of fabrics including silk, polyester, cotton, ultrasuede, etc. I want one that is easy to change bobbins with arthritic hands. Please hurry, I need one soon! Thanks.

[Christine H]

I have been sewing for 50 years. I am looking for a new sewing machine where I can sew in reverse using 2 hands. The only machines I've seen anywhere for the last several years requires one to hold a lever or button with 1 hand in order to sew in reverse. Also one can't sew in reverse manually (turning the wheel yourself.) My ancient straight sew Feather Weight has a lever, which once moved to the reverse position, allows me to sew using both hands while pushing the foot pedal or by turning the wheel manually for delicate tricky areas. Does anyone know of any machines that can offer the 2 free hands and manual option?

[Sue]

Hi,
A lot of people are asking about sewing several layers of fabric or leather. I make vinyl tote bags and for heavier fabrics I use a "walking foot" which pushes the fabric forward. It is attached to the needle after removing your regular footer and you can find them in a sewing machine repair store or on the internet. I found mine for my Singer Featherweight at a store in Alameda, CA. - A1 Vacuum, 1502 Park Street (Park and Santa Clara) CA. Phone: 510-865-8319. The owner is very helpful. You can also find them online under sewing machine parts. The Kenmore Machine from Sears also has them.

Hope this will be helpful.

My best, Sue

[Nancy Moore]

I have a Brother 4000 Embroidery/Sewing machine that I love. I want to purchase a nice, easy machine for my daughter to be used for repairs and simple sewing. A sewing machine repair person has cautioned against one of the newer Singer or Brother machines because of plastic parts. Can you look ahead and tell me what would be the most reliable machine for under $500?
Nancy Moore

[Debbie]

I've had a Viking "Rose" model for several years. It's a great machine. I'm a quilter, but I also sew some clothese and do utility sewing for the house, such a slip covers, curtains, etc. I also purchased a Janome Jem to use when I leave the house; lugging around my very expensive Viking made me nervous. Both machines have performed admirably and I would highly recommend either one. However, I want to purchase a serger - many sewing projects would be much quicker and easier to accomplish with a serger. My wish is for CR to also test and rate the serger models out there. I know they are more complicated than a regular sewing machine, and do have more mechanical problems than a regular sewing machine.

[Liz]

I am looking to buy a sewing machine to use for crafting and other hobbies and I can't wait to read your report. My main concerns will be: price, ease of use, features, and long term durability.

[Carol Wheeler]

I received a new machine for Christmas. When I read the information on it - it did not seem to have the capibility to sew demin or heavy material. I'm returning it and looking at the Husqvarna Viking. There are many. I would like to start embroidery & quilting. Can you recommend a model and give me a reliablity history on Viking?

[Linnie813]

Looking to embroider golf shirts, towels, etc for gifts......also would like to "import" designs from other programs......

[Janet J]

Please report on basic machines - I need one that will sew several layers of heavy fabric such as denim. Would like a real machine made of metal, not plastic. Don't need a computer either.

[Harvey Federman]

Hi, I've been a longtime subscriber and I must admit, the one area of testing I've been disappointed in has been sewing machines. Going all the way back to the one in 1988, I've always felt you've made two basic errors.
#1-You have not compared apples to apples. You lump in $150 with $800 machines.
I remember back when you had in the same catagory a $1500 Brother and a $3700 Viking. You said the Viking was better but the Brother was ok. How does one make a choice of what to purchase from that?
#2-You've left out some major players in the sewing machine industry. Over the years you've left out Elna, Pfaff and Janome from various reports. If you ever pick up any sewing magazines over the last 20 years you always see Husqvarna Viking, Bernina, Elna, Janome, Pfaff, Brother and in recent years again, Sears and Singer.
They should all be represented in your tests.
You would never compare a Honda Civic against a BMW. Why do it with sewing machines?
Harvey Federman
Sew Right Sewing Machines
Bayside NY

[Harvey Federman]

Hi,
I'm a long time subscriber to CU and I must admit that the one area I've felt you have not done justice to your subscribers is the Sewing Machine tests, going back to the one in 1988.
I would suggest 2 basic corrections.
#1-Compare apples to apples. In the past you have lumped together mass merchant $149 machines with $800 machines. You may top rate the more expensive ones but give a best buy to a $169 one. How does one make a decision from that. If one sewed on both the could easily see that the more expensive one is in a totally different catagory.
You do not compare Honda Civic and BMW.
#2-You have left out some of the major sewing machine companies like Pfaff, Elna and Janome from some catagories. In every sewing magazine over the last 20 years Husqvarna Viking, Bernina, Janome, Pfaff, Elna, Brother and recently Sears and Singer have full page ads. I believe that these companies should be represented in your tests, in divided up catagories, maybe mechanical machines, computerized up to $1500, Sewing and Embroidery from $1000-$3500 and another for top of the line ($4000-$12000) so that your subscribers can make an informed decision.
Yours,
Harvey Federman
Sew Right Sewing Machines
Bayside, NY

[Shirley Keeler]

I am looking for a strong reliable machine for a variety of home sewing projects including clothing repairs, some clothing construction - on a variety of fabrics, home decor sewing (drapes, etc.), quilting. I will need a machine that can handle heavy layers, including hemming denim jeans. Is it possible to get all that in one machine?

I'm also interested in embroidery options. I'll make my final decision after I evaluate the cost of various options that interest me, as well as their reliability.

I agree with most of the comments previously made.

I am also interested in knowing more about the comment that Janome is making machines for Sears. I'd like to know about that - are they the same quality/models as Janome branded machines? How do the prices compare.

I am an experienced sewer, and I want the best machine I can afford - not a beginner machine. Reliability, expected lifetime of a machine is also very important to me. I am 62 and do not want to need to purchase another machine. (I've had my second hand Singer for over 30 years.

Eagerly looking forward to your March 2009 report.

[Ellen Knowles]

The majority of reviews I read on the internet are from beginning sewers. That's all well and good, but for those of us who are experienced, it would be extremely helpful to expand the categories beyond the quality of basic stitches and weight of the machine. We need to know things like deck widths (the lateral space between the needle and the body of the machine, to discern how hard it will be to shove larger quilts or home dec projects through), availability of specialty feet and refinement of specialty stitches. Not all decorative stitches look the same among brands.

Please address these issues, or your reviews will be germane only to beginning sewers.

Thank you.

[Diana]

I'm interested in:

- brand comparisons. (JUST purchased Janome 6260QC) so hope to find feedback on that (and all good I hope).

- Simplicity of maintenance and prevalance of skilled repair and maintenance services if needed, especially with so much more computerized and electronic parts. I anticipate more complicated diagnosis capabilities required.

- Sturdiness over time in this world of plastic. And manufacturer backup of product since so many parts are made abroad.

[Melinda Fish]

I bought a floor model,slightly used, Husqvarna-Viking Designer I at a quilt market in 2003. I loved it at first, but within the last 5 years, I have had to spend several hundred dollars in electronic repairs. Once the entire head had to be replaced. I have had the control pad replaced 3 times and it is on the "blink" again. When it sews well, I could kiss it, but the embroidery unit is quickly growing obsolete, and I want to know how reliable the other brands are as far as repairs on electronics. In my opinion, the electronics should be guaranteed for at least 10-15 years. Otherwise, the cost of the machine is far more than the large price you pay. I know others who have had the same problems. I would love for CR to do an in-depth "police" report on the top sewing machines: Viking, Bernina, Janome, Brother,Baby Lock and the others. The prices of the new top -of- the -line models are between $8,000-$13,000 and the warranties are not good. With so many electronic features, I am afraid to leap into another purchase that I will later regret because of repair bills and obsolesence. Please help people like me. I would gladly subscribe to the CR website if reviews on the sewing industry appliances including sewing machines, quilting machines (longarms and mid-arms) and sergers were part of the regularly scheduled reviews. Thanks, Melinda Fish

[elizabeth]

I am looking for a truly automatic needle threader.

[Jiminyc]

What turns me off from sewing in a hurry is a machine that constantly needs adjusting. Both my sister and I had different models of Kenmore that were a nightmare. The machines seemed well made and substantial but were just horrible to sew on, requiring many trips to the repairman for adjustment only to come right out of adjustment again. My sister was a heavy user and I was a light user so that wasn't it. This was a number of years ago so I don't know about Kenmore now but I see this complaint with certain Singer models too in reviews. My number one requirement now is a non-finicky machine.

[John]

I know you are probably in the process of typing up your findings, prepping for publication this month but just wanted to say that your timing on sewing machine testing is about right. I'm considering getting one, a basic mechanical machine that can do more than a simple straight stitch. I have some sewing experience, not much and what I want is a simple one that can do some of the more basic fancy stitches like the Zig Zag, the blanket stitch etc, as well as the basic straight stitch for the type of sewing I want to do is to be able to sew on shirt buttons when necessary, but to do things more in the line of making pillows, throws, aprons and fabric based art rather than garments and no, I am not interested in embroidery/quilting machines although the type of quilting, should I do so can be done easily with a basic sewing machine for it'd be sewing up the various sections of fabric on the front panel of a large wall hanging to give dimension but that's it. Money is a consideration and my Mom has told me to stay away from the current Singers, crappy and I've heard general dismal reviews of the shark stuff but have heard, anecdotaly that Brother is decent and to get that and a seamstress friend said to look into a Pfaff or Bernina machines for if you get even their basic workhorses, they last for years.

At this time, not daily sewing unless on a project, something that can be easily stored when not in use for I live in a small 1 bedroom apt and the station for creative projects will be used for more than just sewing so would a basic Brother machine, found at Target say do for now?

This report will be interesting and handy as when I buy, sometime in the spring most likely, will land me a decent machine for the price point I'm willing/can pay at the time.

[Lorraine]

Clearance is my bug-a-boo, shoving, pulling and pushing a quilt through a machine can be very frustrating.

[courtney]

Looking for a basic sewing machine that won't fail over time: no computer chip or other software that can fail. A machine that is great for beginners; good for the most broad range of projects; something that can be bought for a reasonable price and will last at least a generation if not two!

[Kathy]

I want the best sewing machine for quilting without all the embroidery options. A machine for quilting a queen size quilt.

[marie austin]

I need a small lightweight machine to carry to quilting classes/does not need all the bells and whistles/ reasonable in price, but weight is most important

[Loretta]

I am looking for a good applique and quilting machine without spending more than necessary since my hobby is very part time. The durability of long runs and consistency of stitches are an issue as well as a few features for convenience without spending several thousand dollars. Maintenance of course is a factor and the outlook of out-dating.

[ghibsky]

in the last 9 months i have brought three sewing machines.(jenome, serger, mc350e embrodery and reg mc) my old singer was 25 years old and keep breaking needles. I too went to the sewing expo in Mi and loved it all. hence the three machine. I planned on retiring soon and what a hobby and I can to some crafts and gifts. Right know i am in classes at an adult ed where they teach basic sewing, great class, very resonable. these people in this class have been there for years, thinking it is a club now.... would love rating on machine and web sites for info, teaching and designs... thank you, gail

[Jane Stevenson]

I'm looking for a machine for my granddaughter who is nine years old and really wanting to sew...she has played with mine some. I want a good basic machine that is easy to operate, low on maintenance but will grow with her if she stays interested in it. Obviously I do not want a high price as we do not know just where this interest is going to take her.

[Sheila Lester]

Please include the max stitch length, max stitch width, and the max distance between the throat plate and the presser foot (for getting to the middle of bulky items).

[Susan]

I'm looking at the Viking Designer I sewing machine for sewing and embroidery. Also the Viking Quilt Designer II for quilting. Do you have any reviews from customers on these two machines?

[Belinda]

I am looking for a "do all" machine. I am currently looking at a Janome 11000SE. Would like to know what other brands are comparable, such as, warranty, tech support, function,ease of use and travel capabilities. Which machines include lots of accessories such as hoops software and computer capabilities, so I don't have to purchase a bunch of extra "stuff". Easy to find accessories and embroidery cards are a must and machines able to use generic parts. Also...need repair histories. So much info is needed because these machines are so expensive and I want to know EVERYTHING. Will wait for your report before I buy.
Thanks, you provide us all with a wonderful service.

[JoAnn]

I hope you will be reviewing serger/overlock machines as well. There are several brands out there and it would be great to know where to begin. Thank you!

[Beth]

I would like to see a review of the newer sergers that use more than 4 threads. They are quite expensive. I have a 4 thread that I have used like crazy for 4-5 years but I would like one that does a cover stitch and some other things that mine won't do. When I bought the one I have, I didn't know anything about sergers and was afraid I wouldn't use it much. I don't know how I sewed without it now and I'm ready to move up but don't want to make a mistake.

[Nancy]

I would like you to review sewing machines that have an extended base for quilting. I don't want to buy a huge quilting machine, but I would like to find out which standard-type sewing machines available today are reliable for quilting.
Thank you.

[Susan Gehringer]

I've been sewing for almost 60 years, own 14 sewing machines from hand crank & treadle antiques to a Brother 2000D embroidery machine (my favorite by far). I'm interested in purchasing a machine for a novice sewer who wants to try her hand at embroidery as well as general sewing. I want something easy to use, durable and reliable... something with clear instructions, easy to read and follow.

[Carol Streetman]

I would also like to see a ratings report on thread: Brands, fiber content, weight, specialized uses such as hand or machine quilting, embroidery, overlock.

[Carly]

So when will we see the results of the sewing machine tests? I'm anxious to purchase one but I don't know enough about the different models to buy without gaining some valuable insight from your testing results. Thanks!!

[Sandra]

I want a machine that comes with a manual that is easy to understand. Manuals need to clearly explain step by step directions, incrementally, with pictures. I think they have tried to do this, but sometimes they skip increments and maybe they don't realize they have. I have a Brother embroidery sewing machine/Walt Disney, and the explanations on getting the embroidery done could have been a bit clearer. Plus, I think manuals could add directions on how to start embroidering after the first step of the item. Maybe you only want a leaf or a stem--and not the whole rose-- because individually, those items are not in your computer database. Why not tell the user how to do just that step? I realize they want consumers to buy designs, but a machine would sell even better if they would explain how to use just a portion of the picture. My Brother could use some clarity on several parts of the instructions, but I think you get my gist in these examples.

[Karen Greenwald]

Looking for a "quality" sewing machine? Today it can be daunting to find one but it doesn't have to be.

How much will you use the machine and for what?
Most sewers will use the basic stitches: straight, zig-zag, (all fabric types / thicknesses) installing zippers (usually denim) button wholes, etc. so my suggestion is evaluate what you need before going shopping! The cool gizmos add dollars to the price of the machine -- evaluate if and how the new gizmo(s)will be used.

Machines that you purchase at superstores are okay for occasional sewing -- remember, you get what you pay for.

I would recommend steering clear of lots of electronic gadgetry because they are costly (approx. $100 per cam) and become obsolete as new machines come onto the market. Another issue is repair -- who and where will you take it for repair? And, does the cost of repair outweigh the cost of a new machine?

Make sure you can ask questions about your machine after you take it home! There is no excuse for a sales person to say "I don't know how to use that machine" after they sell it to you!

Beginners - try a low cost basic stitch machine.
Intermediate to advanced - invest in a machine with metal moving parts with a reputable dealer with quality manufacturer service and repair. This may mean purchasing a commercial machine. Keep in mind, commercial machines come with basic stitches only! I would look into obtaining an old machine (pre electronic) to do embroidery Gizmo machines.

Finally, make sure the machine will support the types of sewing, fabric, etc. you will do.

I have been sewing since I was nine (I'm 50) and used to own my own alternations and tailoring business. My machine (a Viking, vintage 1974) will sew through just about anything -- provided I use the right combination of fabric, needle and thread. This saved me.

For sewers who will use the machine more than not, find an old Viking because It has ALL metal moving parts! I can (and have) taken it a part to clean, repair, adjust its components -- something you cannot do with the electronic machines)

Keep in mind, older machines like mine, have retained their value. The sewing machine repairman told me that I can sell my Viking for more that my father bought it for me 30+ years ago. My machine came with a 30 year unconditional warranty. A few years back, it wouldn't run right. After taking it in for repair, I received a call from the repairman who said it was out of warranty--the warranty expired one month prior. He said "they just don't build them like they used to!" Be laughed!

[Robert Noonan]

Did you test the Brothers QC 1000 sewing machine for your 3/09/09 ratings. If so what are the results ?

[Margaret C]

Thank you for the March report on sewing machines…I would like to know specifically about long arm machines for quilting. Is the frame better or sit down better? Is the stitch regulator required, are the frames interchangeable, which model is the easiest to use – user friendly, lights, threads, maintenance, warranties, bobbins and a whole lot more.
I also need an embroidery machine; I want one that only embroiders. I have a wonderful sewing machine would not trade it for the world, but I need something to embroider my labels and add some embellishments to my quilts. Please consider running a report on these specialty machines and their use. These machines are high ticket items and I would like to spend my money wisely.

[KarriLynn]

I am looking for the perfect sewing machine to purchase of a new business venture. I need a machine that will sew on leather motorcycle apparel. I am taking over an existing seamstresses businees, she is moving away.

I need the machine(s) to sew repair leather motorcycle jackets, chaps, replace zippers, sew patches on vests, jackey backs and sleeves.

Please can you give me an idea of te best and most versatile machie that will do the absolute best job> i have bbe researching heavy-duty and upolstery machines, and everyone seems to have their own opinion. I just need a guideline as i search for used machines that will do everything i need on a regular basis. I dont want to buy a lemon machine somebody says is a perfect match-only to findout I just got ripped off.

Thank you so much for all your help!!!!

[Mina]

I purchased a Husqvarna Viking Designer Diamond sewing machine (yes, it was $8999.) in June of last year. It has yet to complete an embroidery project that looks good. I have taken lessons in its operation, so know it is not me. I have owned Viking machines for 39 years and this is the first one I can honestly say is a lemon. My wonderful dealer even exchanged the machine for me...but the second one is as bad as the first. Luckily I have a Viking #1 that may be old...but it works beautifully. Do any of your other readers have problems with their Designer Diamond? I have written Husqvarna, but do not get a response. I truly regret this purchase. I searched your site for some possible information on the Designer Diamond but could not find anything.

[Deborah H]

I am in the process of buying a new embroidery machine, Baby lock Embroidery Professional (BMP 8). Does anyone have any comments about this machine? I have owned the Baby lock Ellegante and have had some problems and want to know the best machine that is available for a home business.

[Jeanne Mandeville]

Why did your most recent sewing machine review exclude the Baby Lock brand?? I have been evaluating their machines recently, and they have quite an extensive line of products.