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sewingmachinesavvy · 6 years

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Janome HD3000 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine Review

The Janome HD3000 is a seriously heavy duty machine, with an aluminum frame, large workspace, and it is packed with automatic features and a myriad of accessories, all at an affordable price.

This is an in-depth review of the features and usability of the Janome HD3000 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine. The Janome HD3000 has an impressive presentation overall. It has 18 built-in stitches and includes a hard case. I will go over the following features and aspects of this machine:

Overall features and accessories

A video demo to show usability

Customer reviews about the pros and cons

Price & where you can purchase

And sew it begins

What Makes the Janome HD3000 Special

The Janome HD3000 heavy duty sewing machine is a robust mechanical sewing machine. The interface is easy to use. It offers a convenient automatic push / pull bobbin system and with 18 stitches and an extendable body, you’ll be able to sew and create garments of all types.

The look of the HD3000 is aesthetically pleasing. It has more of a square body and its simple design in white looks sturdy and crisp. Although it has a tough exterior, it also comes with a hard carrying case.

Here is a quick glance at the machine.

Features Janome DC 2015 Computerized Sewing Machine

Built-In-Stitches18 Stitch SelectionDial Buttonhole Styles1 One-Step Buttonhole Needle Threading SystemAutomatic Easy Bobbin WindingYes Automatic Thread CutterYes Presser Feet Included5 Feed DogYes 5-piece feed dog Quick Set BobbinYes Max Sewing Speed (stitches per minute)860 spm Stitch WidthAdjustable (max of 6.5 mm) Stitch LengthAdjustable (max of 4 mm) Speed ControllerNo Automatic Needle Up / DownYes Drop Feed / Free MotionYes Accessory StorageYes Carrying CaseHard Case Included Machine Weight18.7 lbs WarrantyJanome 25 Year Limited Warranty Current Price

Features of the Janome HD3000 Sewing Machine

Here are some of the features this sewing machine:

Automatic Needle Threader – No More Straining Your Eyes! Simply Use the Built-In Automatic Needle Threader and Throw Your Frustrations to the Side! / Jam Proof Top-Loading Bobbin System – It’s Easy To Change Your Bobbin and There is No Need to Worry About Running Off the Edge of Your Project Because the Bobbin System is Jam-Proof

Easy Stitch Selection – Simply Turn the Stitch Selection Dial to the Desired Stitch and the Chosen Stitch Will Appear in Red / Flip-Up Stitch Panel – Take a Look at All 18 Built-In Stitches at a Glance with the Flip-Up Stitch Panel

Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure – A Simple Turn of the Dial will Adjust the Presser Foot Pressure Allowing you to Sew a Wide Variety of Fabric Thicknesses / Free Arm Capability – Sew Pants Legs and Shirt Sleeves with Ease Using the Free-Arm

Accessories You’ll Get

The Janome HD3000 comes with a lot of accessories. You’ll have everything you could possibly need to start sewing on easy or advanced sewing projects. Accessories include:

A Hard Case/Cover

Ultra Glide Foot

2 Packs of Leather Needles

A Pack of Universal Needles

A Pack of Bobbins

Blind Hem “G” Foot

Overedge “C” Foot

Rolled Hem “D” Foot

Zipper “E” Foot

Buttonhole “B” Foot

Automatic Buttonhole “R” Foot

Also Comes With – a Pack of Needles, Screwdriver, Small Screwdriver, Spool Holder (Large), Spool Holder (Small), Lint Brush, Seam Ripper, Additional Spool Pin, Bobbin, Quilter Bar, Felt, Foot Control/Power Cord, Warranty Card and Instructional Manual

Pros and Cons of the Janome HD3000

The Positives

Overall the Janome HD3000 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine has a majority of positive reviews. Customers are generally big fans of this machine. Users praise how easy all of the features are to use. Owners claim it can handle just about any task you throw it at it, from simple to complex projects. Need to work with multiple layers of thick fabric? No problem. Users say it sews like a breeze even through 8 layers of heavier fabric, including denim. Users praise how strong the motor is and how the sturdy the machine is overall. Finally, owners praise how smooth running and quiet this machine is and love the stitch quality

Some Negatives

Nothing is perfect right? Some users of the HD3000 say there is room for improvement. Some users complain about having to slow the speed down when going through thicker fabric like vinyl. Others mentioned the hard case being more of a shell that just goes over the handle. And some users think the machine is actually louder than they’d like.

Janome HD3000 Video Demo

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Where to Purchase the Janome HD3000 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine

The Janome HD3000 can be purchase on Amazon, where you can get the machine as well as the

Janome HD3000 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine w/ Hard Case + Ultra Glide Foot + Blind Hem Foot + Overedge Foot + Rolled Hem Foot + Zipper Foot + Buttonhole Foot + Leather and Universal Needles + More!

List Price: $499.99

Price: $429.00

You Save: $70.99

Price Disclaimer

added accessories. You get a lot of convenient and automated features, as well as a heavy duty aluminum frame, and carrying case, all making this an excellent investment when compared to similar style machines.

You get a 25 year warranty from the dependable Janome brand.

If the price or features of this machine aren’t quite right for you, check out some other heavy-duty sewing machines or you may be interested in some lower cost, beginner friendly machines.

Feel free to reach out if you have questions about the Janome HD3000 or any other sewing question. Happy sewing!

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/janome-hd3000-heavy-duty-sewing-machine-review/

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sewingmachinesavvy · 6 years

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Quilting Sewing Machines Under $600

I’ve had a few people ask me if you need a special machine to quilt and the answer is no.

Technically you can quilt with any good quality sewing machine but some machines just make it a little easier because of the features they have. So you may see these sewing machines referred to as quilting sewing machines.

Here are a few things to consider when you shop for a sewing machine for better quilting:

1. Needle up/Needle down – Most sewing machines stop with the needle up and out of the fabric. When you quilt it is actually easier if the needle stops down. Some machines have a specific feature where you can program it to stop down and this is helpful so you won’t have to adjust the needle every time. This will be listed as “programmable needle up / down”

2. Feed Dogs – If you don’t know what feed dogs are then here is a mini lesson because these things are important in all sewing. The feed dogs can be seen on the needle plate and look like metal teeth. They move back and forth in slots in a sewing machine’s needle plate, gently gripping and feeding the fabric to help it pass through the sewing machine.

When you free motion quilt (sewing the top, batting and backing together in a pattern – also known as a quilt sandwich) you need to be able to move the fabric freely under the needle. The feed dogs move the fabric in a single direction, so dropping them or covering them reduces the drag on the quilt.

Keep in mind that not all quilters drop the feed dogs. There are some very experience quilters who say you don’t even need to do it. They just set their stitch length to zero. Experiment for yourself to see what works best for you.

On modern machines there is a switch that lowers the feed dogs, while some older machines have a plate that is used to cover the feed dogs. If you don’t have this feature on your machine or if you find a machine you love but it is not specifically made for quilters then you can also use an index card or playing card to cover the feed dogs.

3. A Variety of Free Motion Feet. Just like you need different tools in your kitchen depending on what you are cooking, you will need a variety of presser feet depending on the quilting design, batting thickness, and the amount of piecing or applique. When shopping for a quilting sewing machine make sure it has options for various quilting feet. Examples are a 1/4 inch foot, which is what typical quilting calls for, a darning or free motion foot for free motion quilting, and a walking foot, which moves the fabric from above in about the same speed as the feed dogs.

6. Easily Changeable Presser Feet. – Speaking of various presser feet that you can use for quilting, you want to be able to change those feet quickly and easily. No one wants to have to pull out a screwdriver every time they want to change presser feet. Many modern machines have snap-on presser feet, which makes changing them a breeze.

7. Larger Work Space. – Many quilting sewing machines will have a larger working area or an extension table to accommodate big projects like quilts.

So these are features that you will typically see on a great quilting sewing machine. Although you can still make quilts without these features, many quilters will advance to a quilting specific machine to make their life easier and to make higher quality quilts.

Great Quilting Sewing Machines Under $600

With that said, let’s take a look at some great quilting sewing machines if you are on a budget.

I want to point out that I have done several articles on my blog about quilting machines and that is for a couple reasons. There are quilting machines that cost over $10,000! But you can easily find a great quilting sewing machine in the $300 to $1,000 range.

Your experience level will dictate what machine you look for. A beginning quilter is probably not going to spend $3,000 on a Janome Horizon Memory Craft 8900QCP but an advanced quilter might shop for a dream machine like that.

So I have my quilting reviews organized by budget and brand because I couldn’t review them all in one post. This article will focus on the best quilting sewing machines for beginners or mid-experienced sewers – a seamstress who is looking to upgrade from a home sewing machine and buy something with quilting features and all of these machines are $600 or less.

Here are three awesome sewing machines for quilting, with a more in-depth overview of each as you read on.

Brother Designio Series DZ2400Janome Magnolia 7360 Singer 9960

Built-In Stitches18560600 Needle up / downYesYesYes Easy Buttonholes8, 1-step8, 1-step13, 1-step Needle ThreaderYesYesYes Slider Speed ControlYesYesYes Drop FeedYesYesYes Thread TensionAutomatic + ManualAutomatic + ManualAutomatic + Manual Thread CutterYesYesYes Max Speed850820850 Snap-on Presser FeetYesYesYes Presser Feet Included10719 Quilting Feet IncludedYesYesYes Extension TableYes, includedNoYes, Included Work SpaceW 5.7" x H 3.8"W 6.5" x H 4.2" Weight9.9 lbs18.3 lbs21.3 lbs Current Price

Brother Designio Series DZ2400

The Brother Designio Series DZ2400 is a value packed computerized quilting sewing machine with 185 built in stitches including 55 alphanumeric stitches.

It has all of the convenient quilting features mentioned above- needle up and down, drop feed, snap-on presser feet, and an extension table for a larger work space.

This machine has 12 sewing and quilting feet included so you can get started on sewing and quilting projects right away.

You’ll get:

Zigzag foot (on machine)

Buttonhole foot

Zipper foot

Button sewing foot

Overcasting foot

Blind stitch foot

Monogramming foot

Quilting foot

Walking foot with quilt guide

1/4 ( piecing ) foot

One thing that stood out to me about the Designio DZ2400, besides all of the automatic features, is that it weighs under 10 lbs. It is very lightweight, which means it is easy to take to sewing classes and if you don’t have a dedicated sewing area, it is easy to put away and take out. It also has a built-in handle so if you need a quilting sewing machine that is easily portable, then this is the one for you.

Owners of this machine praise all of its features, pointing out how quiet it is and are happy with the stitch quality.

Overall this is a great option for a sewing machine with convenient quilting features, especially if you are on a budget. Brother is known for value and this is no exception.

Janome Magnolia 7360 Sewing Machine

The Janome Magnolia 7360 has a pretty flower on the front but don’t let that fool you – this is a powerful machine with dozens of convenient features for sewing and quilting. It is easy enough to use for a newbie seamstress, while it also has enough stitches and features to satisfy an experience quilter. This machines comes with a quilting bonus package that includes a walking foot and a 1/4″ foot.

Quick Buttons and Stitch Selection

The Janome Magnolia 7360 is a computerized sewing machine so most of its features can be controlled and changed with the touch of a button.

There is an easy to read LCD screen on the Magnolia 7360 and a convenient s

titch chart which shows the 60 built-in stitches this machine has. Simply choose by pressing the corresponding on the stitch chart.

Direct select buttons also allow you to change stitch width and length by pressing “plus” or “minus” to adjust.

There are Separate buttons to lock a stitch and sew in reverse, which allow you to create strong and professionally finished seams that won’t fray.

The Janome Magnolia 7360 also has variable speed control so you can speed up and slow down sewing using a speed control slider. Whether you are new to sewing or have years of experience, this convenient feature lets you choose the best sewing pace depending on your skill or the project you are working on.

A couple more handy feature this machine offers is a memorized needle up/down button and a start/stop button. This eliminates the need for a foot pedal (but there is a foot pedal included if you prefer to use it).

Overall Convenient Features:

Top loading full rotary hook bobbin

60 built-in stitches

7 one-step buttonholes

Automatic thread tension control

One-hand needle threader

Snap-on presser feet

Memorized needle up/down

7 piece feed dog

Free arm

Drop feed

Start/stop button

Speed control slider

Locking stitch button

Easy reverse button

Auto-declutch bobbin winder

Extra high presser foot lift

Backlit LED screen with easy navigation keys

Maximum stitch width: 7mm

Maximum stitch length: 5mm

You’ll get the following presser feet:

¼ inch Seam Foot

Blind Hem foot G

Buttonhole Foot R (automatic)

Even Feed Foot (Walking foot)

Quilting Bar for walking foot

Satin Stitch Foot F

Zipper foot E

You will also get a cover / carrying case, which can easily save you $20+ and is a great way to protect your investment.

Owners of this machine praise its simplicity of use and appreciate how light it is, making it convenient to take to and from sewing classes. Also the option to adjust the needle position from left to right makes it convenient to get the exact quarter inch seam allowance.

Overall the Magnolia 7360 is an affordable option if you want a quilting sewing machine but you are on a budget.

Singer 9960 Quantum Stylist

Up next is a quilting sewing machine from the trusted Singer brand – The Singer 9960 Quantum Stylist Sewing Machine has a mind-boggling 600 built-in stitches and a myriad of other electronic features like an automatic electronic thread trimmer, extra-large sewing space, and a wide array of presser feet.

This is a phenomenal machine for sewing as well as quilting and the price is very affordable for most budgets. This amount of features, built-in stitches, and the included accessories and presser feet make this an exceptional value. I’ll go over some of the features in this article but I also have a full in-depth review that you can read here.

Singer 9960 LCD Screen and Control Panel

This machine has huge and crystal clear LCD screen, which is referred to as the ‘Digital Information Advisor’.

There are over 2 dozen buttons but it really is simple to use as you get to know it. The owners guide are very helpful in the beginning.

At the touch of a button you can quickly and easily select your desired stitch, length and width, and you will also see a recommended presser foot.

SINGER 9960 Quantum Stylist Built-In Stitches

The Singer 9960 has 600 built-in stitches, which may be intimidating for a beginning sewer, but keep in mind that you won’t be using that many stitches on a day-to-day basis. Most people use just a few stitches regularly. This includes me – 90% of the time I use a regular straight stitch :).

But the fact that is has so many stitches and different buttonholes means you will have a stitch for anything you could possibly want to do.

The stitches are printed on a chart in the upper lid of the machine, which you then select using the LCD and touch button controls. Here is a breakdown of the stitches:

103 built-in utility sewing stitches

13 styles of buttonholes

34 decorative sewing stitches

90 upper case, lower case, numbers, and characters in 5 different fonts (450 stitches in total)

Presser Feet and Included Accessories

The Singer 9960 has convenient snap-on presser feet, which makes changing presser feet ultra easy. There are 18 presser feet included, which is a big plus because presser feet can cost up to $30 each.

Adjustable bias binder foot

Single-welt cording foot

Braiding foot and guide

Stitch-in-the-ditch foot

Fancy-trim foot

Clear piping foot

Clearance plate

All-purpose foot

Zipper foot

Button sewing foot

Satin stitch foot

Buttonhole foot with underplate

Open toe foot

Blind hem foot

Overcasting foot

Narrow hem foot

Cording foot

1/4-inch foot

Darning & embroidery foot

Even feed foot

You will also get the following accessories: Needles, Bobbins (Class 15), Seam Ripper, Lint Brush, Spool Pin with Felt Washer, Screwdrivers, Spool Caps, Seam Guide, Quilting Bar, Power Cord, Foot Controller, Extra Wide Extension Table instructional DVD, and an operation manual. A hardcover carrying case is included, which is a nice addition that will easily save you $20+.

Overall, the Singer 9960 Quantum Stylist is quiet, sturdy, and has many features for all levels of sewing. It is also a very lightweight and compact machine, which makes it easily portable to and from sewing classes or great for someone who keeps their machine in a closet instead of having a dedicated workspace for it.

The Bottom Line

Keep in mind that there are dozens and dozens of quilting sewing machines on the market, in various price ranges. I think the saying that you get what you pay for rings true here as well – You can buy a $300 quilting machine or easily spend over $1,000 so your level of expertise, the type and size of quilts you need to do, and the mandatory features you require are variables to consider.

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/best-quilting-sewing-machines/

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sewingmachinesavvy · 6 years

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Variable Speed Control Sewing Machines – What It Is and Why You Need It

Readers often ask me what is the one feature on a sewing machine that I couldn’t live without. It’s a tough question because modern sewing machines have so many bells and whistles. You can find a machine with hundreds of different stitches, embroidery, automatic buttons, drop-in bobbins, automatic needle threader (this is a close 2nd) and the list goes on and on…

But if I had to choose one I would definitely say variable speed control (also called adjustable speed control).

When I started sewing this was the one feature on my first sewing machine that I thought was brilliant and so useful for a newbie. Several years later and I am still in love with this feature and use it every time I sew.

A Foot Pedal vs. Speed Control Slider

Well, let’s talk about various ways you can control the sewing speed when you sew. This is important because you need to be in control when you are sewing or else you are going to have crooked lines, ugly stitches, and just an overall poor finished result.

Before the variable speed control slider you had a pedal. You put pressure on the foot pedal, which makes the sewing machine “go” or the sewing needle go up and down. And just like a car the harder you press, or the more pressure you put on the pedal, the faster your machine will sew.

My problem with foot pedals is they can be sensitive and it is almost impossible for me to provide a consistent steady pressure on the pedal while maintaining hand / eye coordination and focusing on the garment I’m sewing.

What typically happens when I use a foot pedal is I put too much pressure and my machine is sewing at light speed and then I ease off the pedal and I’m going too slow. It is back and forth.

I am not exaggerating and although some foot pedals are better than others, I could never find that middle ground of consistent sewing at a minimal speed or even at a s

low speed. This is where variable speed control comes in.

What is Adjustable Speed Control and How is it Helpful?

A machine with adjustable speed control will typically have a slider where you choose the speed that you want to sew – this can be as low as 50 stitches per minute on up to 1,000 stitches p

er minute if your machine has the capacity for it.

You set your speed and press stars and your machine sews at that speed. If its too slow, adjust the slider higher. If its too fast, adjust it down.

This sounds so simple but I cannot stress how convenient and helpful this is.

Three Top Sewing Machines with Variable Speed Control

If variable speed control is a must have feature for you then you will be shopping for a computerized sewing machine (as opposed to a mechanical sewing machine) and this is because adjustable speed control is a feature where your machine will essentially sew for you at a determine speed set by you – this is an electronic feature – vs. a mechanical sewing machine that has no electronic components. I have an in depth article on the differences between a mechanical and computerized sewing machine if you aren’t clear on it.

Here are three top selling computerized sewing machines with adjustable speed:

Janome 8077Brother XR9500PRWSinger 7258

Built-In Stitches 30100100 Presser Feet Included4710 Easy Buttonholes686 Needle ThreaderAutomaticAutomaticAutomatic Slider Speed ControlYesYesYes Thread Tension Manual Manual Automatic Thread CutterNoYesYes Max Speed820 spm850 spm750 spm Weight18.2 lbs9.9 lbs14.75 lbs Average Rating (out of 5)4.64.64.4 Current Price

Janome 8077 Computerized Sewing Machine

A great sewing machine from the dependable Janome brand (pronounced juh-no-mee). This brand makes great mechanical sewing machines and their computerized machines are just as good.

What I really like about this computerized machine is its simplicity. With 30 built-in stitches it is not overwhelmingly complicated. It has a great variety of utility stitches, three styles of overcast stitches, and 2 blind hems for woven fabrics and knits and a handful of decorative stitches for heirloom sewing and a blanket stitch for applique. (30 stitches altogether).

And yes it has a variable speed control slider. Learn more about the Janome 8077 or purchase here.

Brother XR9500PRW Project Runway Sewing Machine

With 100 unique built-in utility, decorative and heirloom stitches, the XR9500PRW Project Runway™ sewing machine is a feature-packed machine that can be used for embellishing clothing and home décor items to creating beautiful quilt designs. This is a computerized sewing machine and it has a large back-lit LCD screen for easy stitch selection.

This really is a great machine for all sewing levels. It is usable right out of the box so it is perfect for beginners. On the other end, more experienced seamstresses will appreciate all of the automatic features, including a speed control slider.

There is also a quilting table to accommodate your quilting or other large projects. See my complete in-depth review on this machine if you want to learn more or visit Amazon to purchase and check out reviews and additional specs.

Singer 7258 Styling Sewing Machine

The Singer 7258 is one of Singer’s best selling sewing machines. It is a two time Consumer Digest award winner based on their combination of eight criteria: performance, ease of use, features, quality of construction, warranty, efficiency, styling, and maintenance and service requirements.

This is a computerized sewing so it has an LCD screen with easy navigation keys to choose your stitch. You get 100 built-in stitches, which is plenty for any type of project a beginner can think of.

Since this is computerized it has more automatic and touch button features like a start / stop button and of course speed control. Learn more and compare pricing.

Final Word on Adjustable Speed Sewing

If you can’t tell by this article so far, I am a big fan of variable speed control when sewing. This is a must have feature for me. If you are brand new to sewing you can take my word for it or go to a local sewing machine dealer or craft store and try out a machine with variable speed control and one without. After trying out both types of machines I’m sure you will appreciate the control and flexibility that the speed control gives you.

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/variable-speed-control-sewing-machines/

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sewingmachinesavvy · 7 years

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Brother XM2701 Lightweight Sewing Machine Review

This is an in depth review of the Brother XM2701 Lightweight, Full Featured Sewing Machine, which is an easy-to-use, feature packed machine perfect for beginning sewers on a budget.

I will overview the following features and aspects of this sewing machine:

The overall features

Built-in stitches and buttonholes

Presser feet and included accessories

A video demo

What users have to say (reviews)

The pros and cons

And the best current price

So let’s get started!

Introduction to the Brother XM2701

The XM2701 is a perfect sewing machine for beginners and sewists on a budget because of its simplicity and reasonable price.

This mechanical sewing machine is easy-to-use right out of the box. It is value-packed and versatile and a great machine overall for a wide range of everyday sewing projects.

Below is a general overview of the features and accessories included. Continue reading for a more in depth overview.

Built-In-Stitches27 Stitch SelectionDial Buttonhole Styles1 One step style Needle Threading SystemAutomatic Easy Bobbin WindingYes Automatic Thread CutterYes Presser Feet Included6 (No Quilting Feet Included) Feed Dog6 Quick Set BobbinYes (Drop In) Max Sewing Speed (stitches per minute)800 spm Stitch Width5mm Stitch Length4mm Speed ControllerNo Automatic Needle Up / DownNo Drop Feed / Free MotionYes Built-In Quilting StitchesYes Accessory StorageYes Carrying CaseOptional Machine Weight12.6 lbs Machine Dimensions 12.1" x 5.9." x 15.3" WarrantyBrother 25 Year Limited Warranty Rating

4.5 / 5.0 Current Price

Brother XM2701 Built-In Stitches

This machine is considered a mechanical sewing machine because it does not have a built-in computer with pre-programmed settings.

It has a dial that you turn by hand to select

the stitch, the stitch length, and the stitch width. Selecting a stitch couldn’t be easier. All of the stitches are laid out clearly on the front.

The Brother XM2701 has 27 unique built-in stitches, including blind hem, decorative and quilting stitches, with an automatic one-step buttonholer for perfect buttonholes.

This is plenty to handle the majority of basic projects that you’ll have.

There are machines on the market with hundreds of built-in stitches, but don’t let that fool you. Most people use just a few stitches regularly (this includes me – 90% of the time I use a regular straight stitch.)

Because the XM2701 has a drop feed you can do free motion quilting with it. There are no included quilting feet but you can purchase a free motion quilting foot and other quilting feet separately.

The Brother XM2701 has a single one-step auto-size buttonholer so there is not a lot of versatility but should be fine for most beginner sewists.

Convenience and Easy-to-Use Features

The Brother XM2701 is affordably priced but you still get a nice amount of convenience features like a jam-resistant drop-in bobbin system and easy bobbin rewinding.

Another great feature that you won’t ever be able to live without is an automatic needle threader. Follow the easy-to-read thread instructions then simply touch the lever on the side of the machine, and the XM2701 automatically pushes the thread right through the needle.

A built-in thread cutter, built in LED light, and a free arm for sewing sleeves, skirts, etc. are additional features that make this a value packed machine.

You also get an instruction DVD makes getting started easy. The DVD shows demonstrations on everything from threading the needle to sewing buttonholes.

Presser Feet Included

Buttonhole foot

Button sewing foot

Narrow Hemmer foot

Zipper foot

Blind Stitch foot

Zigzag foot

Accessories Included

Darning plate

Accessory bag with needle pack

Twin needle

Screwdriver

Extra spool pin

Bobbins (3)

Power cord

Instructional DVD

Operation manual

There is no carrying case included with this but you can purchase the Brother Universal Carrying Case to protect your machine. I own one of these for my Brother machine and it is a worthwhile investment.

Video Demo

Here is a video showing the versatility of this machine in action.

youtube

User Reviews of the Brother XM2701

Currently Rated 4.5 / 5.0

Users of this machine rave about how easy-to-use this machine and some said it was perfect for beginners.

Many users appreciate the dvd, which guides you through the setup and what you can do with it.

Users were impressed with how quiet it is when sewing.

Owners also commented on how substantial and responsive the foot pedal is, allowing the speed to be easily controlled at max speed or slowed down.

Pros and Cons of theBrother XM2701

PROS

Lightweight and portable at 12.6 lbs

Very affordable

Comes with a dvd for easy setup and instructions for beginners

Quiet yet powerful sewing at 800 stitches per minute

CONS

Presser foot pressure is not adjustable

Some reviewers mentioned that the LED light is not bright enough

Overall Summary of the Brother XM2701

Overall you should know that the Brother XM2701 sewing machine is definitely a budget beginner machine. It has a good amount of convenience features to make sewing and setup easy and plenty of stitches for most projects.

Best of all it is very lightweight and easily portable to sewing classes or travel.

If you are an advanced seamstress this is also suitable as a travel machine or something simple to use instead of taking out a larger and heavier machine.

Current and Best Price

Brother XM2701 Lightweight, Full-Featured Sewing Machine with 27 Stitches, 1-Step Auto-Size Buttonholer, 6 Sewing Feet, and Instructional DVD

Price: $116.99

Price Disclaimer

You can’t beat the price of the Brother XM2701. It is very affordable for any budget, which is one reason it is a top selling machine. This is a great sewing machine that will last you for years as your sewing skills grow.

Check out my other reviews of beginner sewing machines or lightweight sewing machines for similar machines to the Brother XM2701.

Let me know if you have any questions. I’ll do my best to answer. Happy sewing

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/brother-xm2701-lightweight-sewing-machine-review/

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sewingmachinesavvy · 7 years

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Best Singer Sewing Machines for Beginners

Singer is possibly the most famous brand of sewing machines and the most well known. It was established in 1851 so we are coming up on 200 years of sewing machine history. The Singer name is synonymous with sewing.

With over 60 types of sewing machines currently on the market, they make a machine for every level of sewing, including beginning sewers who need an easy-to-use, affordable machine. Singer has a great lineup of beginner sewing machines. In this article I’ll go over three great choices to compare.

What to Look for In a Beginner Sewing Machine

Your overall sewing experience will determine the features and price you look for when shopping for a new machine. An experienced seamstress or an advanced quilter have different needs and wants in a sewing machine than someone who is just starting out.

Here are four things to consider when you shop for the best Singer sewing machine as a beginner.

1. Simplicity and Ease of Use

Of all the features that a sewing machine that can offer you I think the most important thing to look out for is ease of use and simplicity. There are machines on the market that have every bell and whistle you could possibly think of and dozens and dozens of built-in-stitches, embroidery, monogramming, etc. Do you need all of this if you are starting out? No. These features might only frustrate and confuse you. Focus on the features that you will actually use.

One thing to remember is many sewing machines have a lot of built-in stitches and beginners can get caught up in this number thinking it is important – you may think that a sewing machine with 100 built-in stitches is superior to a machine with 8 built-in stitches. Well, that’s not always the case because there are many other factors to consider and most sewers use just a few stitches – 90% of the time you are going to use a simple straight stitch.

As a beginner you should keep an eye out for sewing machines with a clean and easy to understand interface. If you can take the machine out of the box and start sewing right away, then that is true simplicity and a great beginner machine.

At a basic level, there are 2 types of sewing machines – mechanical or electronic / computerized. A computerized machine has an LCD screen and you choose your stitch and other features with the touch of a button. With a mechanical machine there will be a turn dial, with the stitches labeled on the dial and you stop at the one you want to use.

Neither one of these is better or worse – it kind of depends on your preference. Some people prefer a mechanical machine because over time they can tend to have less problems because they don’t have a computer and all of the electronic components.

Read more about mechanical vs. computerized machines here if you are interested.

2. Automatic and Convenience Features

Automatic features are not 100% necessary to sew but in my opinion they make sewing easier and fun, especially for beginners. When I bought my first sewing machine I didn’t know what to look for and fortunately the machine I chose (a Brother) had many automatic features that I really appreciated.

Here are some automatic and convenience features that you may find helpful:

Automatic needle threader

Variable speed control / speed slider (This one was huge for me when I started sewing and it is still a must have feature for me. This allows you to slow your sewing speed down and you can go very slow if needed.)

Snap-on presser feet – This makes changing your presser foot quick and easy

Easy bobbin winder and drop-in bobbin

Built-in thread cutter

3. Affordably Priced

Just like sewing machines come with many different features and specifications, they also have varying price ranges. You can buy a mini sewing machine that costs under $30 (yup!) and you can spend over $15,000 on a sewing machine (check out this Bernina 880-SE – amazing!).

If you are a beginner I think that a budget under $200 is plenty to get the features you need to get started with enough room to grow into. Sewing is a skill that will grow over time – you don’t start out as an advanced quilter but maybe over time you will move into that and you will need a machine with advanced quilting options.

4. Size and Portability

Size and weight are an important feature to consider because many beginning sewers don’t have a dedicated sewing area / table. A lightweight machine is good if you need to store your machine in a cabinet and pull it out when you want to use it.

There are machines out there that weigh over 25 lbs. easily and then you have lots of machines in the 10 – 15 lb range and that’s quite a difference if you have to frequently move your machine around or pull it out and put it away.

Also, if you are going to sewing classes you want a machine that is light and portable.

A carrying case is also important because it protects your Singer sewing machine and makes it simple to carry with a handle. Singer makes a universal hard carrying case that fits most free arm models and some machines come with this when you purchase it.

Comparison of 3 Singer Sewing Machines Perfect for A Beginner

Here is an overview of three Singer machines that a beginning sewer will appreciate. These machines are intuitive and easy to use, affordably priced, and lightweight and portable.

Singer 4411Singer 3232 Singer 7258

Weight14.5 lbs12.2 lbs14.75 lbs Built-In Stitches1132100 Easy Buttonholes 1, 4-step1, 1-step6, 1-step Needle ThreaderAutomaticAutomaticAutomatic Slider Speed ControlNoNoYes Thread CutterYesYesYes Max Speed (spm)1,100750750 Presser Feet Included4410 Current Price

Below is a more in-depth review of the features and specs of each machine

Singer 4411 Heavy Duty Extra High Speed Sewing Machine

The Singer 4411 is a mechanical sewing machine with 11 stitches to choose from using an easy to read turn dial and one 4-step buttonhole. This machine has a powerful motor nad has a sewing speed of 1,100 stitches per minute, which is incredibly fast.

The 4411 is considered a heavy duty sewing machine because it can handle thicker fabrics like denim, vinyl, and even leather (just be sure to use the right sewing needle). The internal skeleton of the sewing machine consists of a heavy duty metal frame, which allows for skip-free sewing and durability.

It has a built-in handle and weighs around 14.5 lbs. so it is still very much portable and not a burden to take to sewing classes, traveling, or to pull in and out when working on projects.

Features of this Machine:

Automatic needle threader

Free arm

Stainless steel bed plate

Adjustable presser foot control

Extra high presser foot lift

Snap-on presser feet

4 included presser feet (All-purpose foot, Buttonhole foot, Zipper foot, Button Sewing Foot)

Reviewers of this machine all commented on how simple yet powerful it is. The simplicity of the Singer 4411 makes it perfect for a beginner, and its power and heavy duty metal frame mean it will last for years to come.

Singer 3232 Simple Sewing Machine

The Singer 3232 is called the Simple Sewing Machine and that is exactly what it is – an affordably priced mechanical sewing machine with 32 built-in stitches and an automatic 1 step buttonhole.

Overall Features:

Automatic needle threader

Adjustable stitch length & width

Free arm

Automatic reverse

Extra high presser foot lift

Heavy duty metal frame

4 presser feet (All-Purpose Foot, Buttonhole Foot, Button Sewing Foot, Zipper Foot)

Overall the Singer 3232 is an easy-to-use machine that you can start sewing on right out of the box, It is affordably priced, lightweight (it weighs just 12.2 lbs.), and it has a heavy duty metal frame for skip free sewing.

Singer 7258 100-Stitch Computerized Sewing Machine

This is a computerized sewing so it has an LCD screen with easy navigation keys to choose your stitch. You get 100 built-in stitches, which is plenty for any type of project a beginner can think of.

Since this is computerized it has more automatic and touch button features like a start / stop button and speed control.

Overall Features:

100 built-in stitches and 7 automatic buttonholes

Automatic stitch length and width

Start/Stop button

Speed control slider

Automatic reverse

Locking stitch button

Programmable needle up/ down

Automatic needle threading system

Quick set top drop-in bobbin

Free arm

4 presser feet – (zigzag/all purpose, buttonhole, zipper, rolled hem, blind hem, darning and embroidery, overcast, straight stitch, gathering, satin stitch/straight stitch)

If you are a beginner and you really want a computerized Singer sewing machine then this is the perfect option. My first sewing machine was a computerized machine and I absolutely loved and appreciated all of the automatic features that an electronic machine can offer.

Just know that computerized machines are a little more technical and need to be cared for. Overall the Singer 7258 is very affordable and you get so many features. With good care it will last you a long time even as your experience grows.

The Bottom Line on Singer Beginner Sewing Machines

Singer is a trusted brand in the sewing industry and these 3 machines are all perfect options for a beginner. So which one of these machines do I think is the best? Think about the features that you really want – Computerized vs. mechanical? Variable speed control? And consider your budget too. Then you can narrow down which machine is the better option for you.

Also, these machines are all under $200. If you have room for a bigger budget then you may want to consider additional machines, but keep in mind that higher price means more features and a more complicated machine. As a beginner you may not need it. If you want to do more research you can check out some great beginner Brother sewing machines or beginner Janome sewing machines.

If you have any questions then leave a question in the comments below and I’ll do my best to help.

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/best-singer-sewing-machines-for-beginners/

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sewingmachinesavvy · 7 years

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Best Janome Sewing Machines for Beginners

The question that comes up the most for me on this site is “which sewing machine should I buy?” And that’s hard to answer because there are many great machines by different brands with various features and prices. There isn’t one perfect machine for everyone.

My first sewing machine was a Brother, which I loved, and my second machine was a higher priced Janome. Sewing on that machine made me fall in love with the brand.

Janome sewing machines are designed for performance, but also for comfort, quality, and ease of operation. I love the simplicity of their machines. They are so easy to use, yet powerful, and sew like a dream, which is why Janome sewing machines are perfect if you are a beginning sewer and you want a quality machine that will last for years.

What to Look for In a Beginner Sewing Machine

Your overall sewing experience will determine the features and price you look for when shopping for a new machine. Someone who has been sewing for years or an advanced quilter will need a completely different type of machine than a someone starting out.

Here are four things to consider when you shop for the best Janome beginner sewing machine.

1. Simplicity and Ease of Use

Of all the features that a sewing machine that can offer you I think the most important thing to look out for is ease of use and simplicity. There are machines on the market that have every bell and whistle you could possibly think of and dozens and dozens of built-in-stitches, embroidery, monogramming, etc. Do you need all of this if you are starting out? No. These features will only frustrate you and confuse you. Just focus on the features that you will actually use.

The funny thing is many machines have tons of built-in stitches and sometimes beginners get caught up in this number when shopping thinking that a machine with 100 built-in stitches is superior to a machine with 8 built-in stitches. Well, that’s not always the case because there are many other factors to consider and most sewers use just a few stitches – 90% of the time you are going to use a simple straight stitch.

2. Automatic and Convenience Features

Here are some automatic and convenience features that you may find helpful:

Automatic needle threader

Snap-on presser feet – This makes changing your presser foot quick and easy

Easy bobbin winder and drop-in bobbin

Built-in thread cutter

3. Affordably Priced

4. Size and Portability

Also, if you are going to sewing classes you want a machine that is light and portable.

A carrying case is also important because it protects your Janome sewing machine and makes it simple to carry with a handle. Janome makes a hard cover carrying case and several styles of totes and a trolley All of these are great options to protect your investment.

Comparison of 4 Janome Sewing Machines Great for Beginners

Here is an overview of four Brother machines that are easy to use, affordably priced, and lightweight and portable.

Janome 660Janome 2212 Janome MOD-30Janome 3128

Weight11.6 lbs13 lbs12.7 lbs18.2 lbs Built-In Stitches12123030 Easy Buttonholes 1, 4-step1, 4-step3, 1-step1, 4-step Needle ThreaderYesYesYesYes Slider Speed ControlNoNoYesNo Thread CutterYesYesYesYes Max Speed650860750650 Free Arm?YesYesYesYes Drop Feed?NoYesYesNo Presser Feet Included5444 Current Price

Below is a more in-depth review of the features and specs of each machine

Janome Jem Gold 660 Sewing & Quilting Machine

The Janome Jem Gold 660 is a mechanical sewing machine with 12 stitches to choose from using an easy to read turn dial and one 4-step buttonhole. It has just enough convenient features to make it perfect for a beginner.

It weighs just11.6 lbs. so it is very lightweight and portable – easy to take with you to sewing classes, traveling, or to pull in and out when working on projects.

Features of this Machine:

Easy reverse button

Built-in needle threader

Free arm

Extension Table

Top loading full rotary hook bobbin

One hand thread cutter

Extra high presser foot lift

Snap-on presser feet

5 included presser feet (standard, buttonhole foot, overedge foot, sliding buttonhole foot, zig-zag foot)

Work space is W 5.1″ x D 4.3″

Reviewers of this machine all commented on how beautifully it sews and sometimes even better than more expensive machines they have from a different brand. One great thing about the Janome 660 is the extension table so you can use this machine if you ever decide to get into quilting. Janome has a separate quilting kit that you can purchase – it comes with a 1/4″ Seam Foot, Craft Foot, Cloth guide, Darning Foot, and an Even Feed Foot With Guide.

This does not have a built-in handle and it does not come with a carrying case but Janome has several options for cases and rolling trolley if you will be toting your machine from place to place.

Janome 2212 Sewing Machine

The Janome 2212 is an amazing entry level sewing machine priced under $200.

This is a mechanical sewing machine with 12 built-in stitches and 1 automatic buttonhole. You choose your stitch and stitch width using the easy-to-read turn dial on the front.

It has a drop feed so it can be used for quilting as well.

Overall Features:

Built-in thread cutter

Easy reverse button

Free arm

Snap on presser feet

Extra high presser foot lift

Drop feed for free motion stitching

4 presser feet – general purpose foot, blind hem foot, zig zag foot, and sliding buttonhole foot

Work space is W 6.5″ x H 4.7″

There are no quilting feet included but you can purchase those separately.

Overall the Janome 2212 sewing machine is an affordably priced, lightweight (it weighs just 13 lbs.), easy-to-use machine that has the durability and reliability of the Janome brand.

Janome MOD-30 Computerized Sewing Machine

The Janome MOD-30 is the first computerized sewing machine in this bunch. It has a backlit LCD screen with easy navigation keys to choose your stitch.

Since this is computerized it has more automatic and touch button features like a start / stop button and speed control

Overall Features:

30 built-in stitches and 3, 1-step buttonhole

Automatic stitch length and width

Start/Stop button

Speed control slider

Easy reverse button

Locking stitch button

Needle Up/ Down

Automatic needle threading system

Quick set top drop-in bobbin

Free arm

Drop feed for free motion sewing and quilting

Large work space

4 presser feet – General Purpose Foot, Zipper Foot, Satin Stitch Foot, Automatic Buttonhole Foot

W 6.7″ x H 4.3″

All of this and it weighs just 12.7 lbs! This machine is packed with features and yet very lightweight and portable.

If you are a beginner and you really want a computerized machine then this is a perfect option. Just know that computerized machines are a little more technical and need to be cared for and also cost more. Overall this machine is still very affordable and you get so many features. With good care it will last you a long time even as your experience grows.

Janome 3128 Sewing Machine

The Janome 3128 is the baby of this bunch – it is the simplest and priced under $150! But that doesn’t mean it isn’t a great machine. It just has the bare bones basics so it is perfect for a beginner.

Overall Features:

8 built-in stitches

1, 4-step buttonhole

Easy lay-in threader

Free arm

Easy reverse button

Extra high presser foot lift

Snap on presser feet

4 presser feet included – general purpose foot, 1/4 Inch Seam Foot, Sliding Buttonhole Foot, Zig-Zag Foot

Work space is W 5.4″ x H 4″

It weighs just 11 lbs so it is lightweight and compact. This does not have a drop feed mechanism so no quilting. There are not a lot of bells and whistles on this machine but sometimes that’s the best thing for a beginner.

The Bottom Line on Janome Beginner Sewing Machines

Janome is a trusted brand in the sewing industry and these 3 machines are all perfect options for a beginner. So which one of these machines do I think is the best? Think about the features that you really want – Computerized vs. mechanical? Variable speed control? Quilting options? And consider your budget too. Then you can narrow down which machine is the better option for you.

Also, these machines are in the $150 to $250 range. If you have room for a bigger budget then you may want to consider additional machines, but keep in mind that higher price also means a more complicated machine with more features. As a beginner you may not need it. I reviewed the Janome DC2015, which is an amazing machine but it is a lot more expensive than these machines here.

If you have any questions then leave a question in the comments below and I’ll do my best to help.

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/best-janome-sewing-machines-for-beginners/

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sewingmachinesavvy · 7 years

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Best Brother Sewing Machines for Beginners

Brother is a leader in making sewing machines for all sewing levels from beginner to expert. There are dozens and dozens of Brother sewing machines on the market that cover all categories of sewing. Here I am going to focus on some top Brother sewing machines that are great for beginners.

The biggest question I get here on this site is “which sewing machine should I buy?” That’s a tough one because there are so many great machines out there with different specs. My first sewing machine was a Brother so I highly recommend this brand if you are new to sewing and want a high quality, reliable, and beginner friendly sewing machine.

What to Look for In a Beginner Sewing Machine

Your level of sewing experience will dictate the features and price you look for when shopping for a new machine. An advanced quilter will need a much different machine than a beginning sewer. With that said, here are some qualities to pay attention to when you shop for the best Brother sewing machine for a beginner.

1. Simplicity and Ease of Use

The funny thing with sewing is this – many machines have all of these built-in stitches and sometimes beginners get caught up in this number when shopping. They think that a machine with 100 built-in stitches is so much better than a machine with 27 built-in stitches, but that’s not the case because most sewers use just a few stitches and 90% of the time you are going to use a simple straight stitch.

You want a sewing machine that has a clean interface that you can easily understand. If you can take the machine out of the box and start sewing in under 5 minutes then that is true simplicity and a great beginner machine.

Neither one of these is better or worse – it just depends on your preference. Read more about mechanical vs. computerized machines here if you are interested.

2. Automatic and Convenience Features

Automatic features are not 100% necessary to sew but in my opinion they make sewing so much easier, especially for beginners. With my first sewing machine I really didn’t know what to look for and fortunately the machine I chose (a Brother) had many automatic features that I really appreciated.

Here are some automatic and convenience features that you may find helpful.

Automatic needle threader – With this you can thread your needle in just a few seconds

Variable speed control / speed slider – This one was huge for me when I started sewing and it is still a must have feature for me. This allows you to slow your sewing speed down and you can go very slow if needed.

Snap-on presser feet – This makes changing your presser foot quick and easy

Easy bobbin winder

Built-in thread cutter

3. Affordably Priced

If you are a beginner I think that a budget under $200 is plenty to get the features you need to get started with enough room to grow into. Sewing is a skill that grows over time – you don’t start out as an advanced quilter but maybe over time you will grow into that and you will need a machine with advanced quilting options.

4. Size and Portability

I think size and weight are an important feature to consider. Many beginning sewers don’t have a dedicated sewing area / table so a lightweight machine is good if you need to store your machine in a cabinet and pull it out when you want to use it.

Also, if you are going to sewing classes you want a machine that is light and portable. A carrying case is also important because it protects your Brother sewing machine and makes it simple to carry with a handle. Brother makes an excellent hard cover carrying case that fits the majority of their machines. Two machines below come with a hard carrying case, which is awesome because that saves you $20+!

Comparison of 4 Brother Sewing Machines Great for Beginners

Here is an overview of four Brother machines that are easy to use, affordably priced, and lightweight and portable.

Brother cs6000iBrother XR9500PRWBrother XM2701Brother XM1010

Built-In Stitches601002710 Easy Buttonholes 7, 1-step8, 1-step1, 1-step, 1-step Needle ThreaderAutomaticAutomaticAutomaticAutomatic Slider Speed ControlYesYesNoNo Thread CutterYesYesNoNo Max Speed800850800750 Quilting FeaturesYesYesNoNo Hard Cover Included?YesYesNoNo Presser Feet Included9664 Weight13 lbs9.92 lbs12.6 lbs10.8 lbs Current Price

Below is a more in-depth review of the features and specs of each machine

Brother cs6000i 60-Stitch Computerized Sewing Machine

This is the best selling sewing machine on Amazon and understandably so. This is a value packed machine – it is affordably priced and it has tons of features.

The cs6000i is a computerized sewing machine. All of the stitches are clearly labeled on the front and you choose your stitch with a touch of the button using the lcd display.

Overall Features:

60 built-in stitches and 7 styles of 1-step auto-size buttonholes

Automatic needle threader

Easy bobbin winding system

Variable speed control

Brightly Lit LED Work Area

Built-in free arm for sewing cuffs and sleeves

Quick set drop-in bobbin

Built-in accessory storage

This sewing machine also has many quilting features, which makes it a perfect machine to buy as a beginner and have for years while you increase your sewing skills.

Quilting Features Include:

An oversized table for r larger quilting projects

Walking foot allows for smoother feeding of multiple layers of fabric

Included quilting foot for accurate placement of your quilting stitches

Quilting guide to helps sew evenly spaced rows of quilting stitches

The cs6000i comes with 9 presser feet and a hard protective case, which is a nice bonus that will save you money right away.

With all of these features, quilting features, additional accessories, and the price you can easily see why this is a top selling machine and to top it off it is very affordably priced. I think this is a great machine for beginners.

Brother XR9500PRW Project Runway™ Limited Edition Computerized Sewing Machine

The Brother XR9500PRW is a versatile, feature-packed sewing machine that is affordably priced. Like the cs6000i above, it also comes with additional quilting features.

This sewing machine has 100 built-in stitches, which includes 55 alphanumeric stitches for lettering or basic monogramming

This is a computerized machine so you choose your stitch using the lcd display and touch button controls.

Overall Features:

100 Unique Built-in Stitches, Including 8 Styles of 1-Step Auto-size Buttonholes

140 Stitch Functions

Super Easy Bobbin Winding System

Free Arm for Sewing Cuffs and Sleeves

Brightly Lit LED Work Area

Full Assortment of Accessories

Needle Position Button

Easy-to-use Needle Threading System

Jam Resistant Drop-in Top Bobbin

Quilting Features:

Oversized wide table to accommodate your larger quilt projects

Built-in quilting stitches

There are no quilting feet included but you can buy them separately

Like the cs6000i above, this machine also comes with a hard carrying case, which will save you $20+ right away.

Brother XM2701 Lightweight, Full-Featured Sewing Machine

The Brother XM2701 is a simple and easy to use machine that is affordably priced.

This is a mechanical sewing machine so it doesn’t have any electronic controls. Instead there is a turn dial stitch selector.

Overall Features:

27 unique built-in stitches, including one 1-step auto-size buttonhole

63 stitch functions

Brightly lit LED work area

Automatic needle threading system

Quick set top drop-in bobbin

It weighs just 12.6 lbs. so it is very lightweight and portable.

The XM2701 comes with 6 included presser feet – Buttonhole foot, Button sewing foot, Narrow Hemmer foot, Zipper foot, Blind Stitch foot, and Zigzag foot. It does not come with a hard cover so that is something you will want to purchase separately.

Brother XM1010

This is the simplest and the least expensive sewing machine in this bunch. The Brother XM1010 is a mechanical sewing machine with 10 unique built-in stitches and one 4-step auto-size buttonhole.

This is definitely a simple beginner sewing machine with user-friendly features and simplicity. At 10.8 lbs. it is lightweight and easily portable.

Overall Features:

10 unique built-in stitches, including one 4-step auto-size buttonhole

4 sewing feet: zigzag foot, zipper foot, buttonhole foot, button sewing foot

Brightly lit LED work area

Free arm for sewing cuffs and sleeves

Quick set drop-in top bobbin system

6 presser feet included – Zipper foot, Blind stitch foot, Buttonhole foot, Button fitting foot, Narrow hemmer foot, Zigzag foot

This machine also has a DVD included that makes getting started easy. You can view demonstrations on everything from threading the needle to sewing buttonholes.

This machine has 6 presser feet included but no hard carrying case.

The Bottom Line on Brother Beginner Sewing Machines

Brother is a trusted brand in the sewing industry and these 4 machines are all perfect options for a beginner. Think about the features that you really want – Computerized vs. mechanical? Variable speed control? Quilting options? A hard case included? Then you can narrow down which machine is better for you.

Also, these machines are all under $200. If you have room for a bigger budget then you may want to consider additional machines. Check out my review of some fantastic sewing machines under $500, machines under $200, as well as a comparison of great lightweight portable machines that are affordably priced.

If you have any questions then leave a question in the comments below and I’ll do my best to help.

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/best-brother-sewing-machines-for-beginners/

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sewingmachinesavvy · 7 years

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Best Portable Lightweight Sewing Machines – My Top 5 Picks

This article will go over some of my top picks for sewing machines that are lightweight and portable, sometimes referred to as 3/4 sewing machines because of their size.

Before I get started I want to clarify the type of sewing machines I will focus on here. There are a couple different types of lightweight sewing machines. You have mini sewing machines, which typically weigh under 5 lbs (ultra portable), cost under $50 or so, and can usually be operated with AA batteries if needed. Then you have full-featured lightweight machines that weigh under 15 lbs, which is still light enough to be transported to and from sewing classes or for travel.

I am going to focus on lightweight, portable, full-featured sewing machines in this review. My top picks are based on weight since we are focusing on portability and overall features and reviews. All of these machines are under 14 lbs. Three of these are mechanical sewing machines (these are always lighter) and one is a computerized sewing machine if you wish to have the touch button controls and automatic features. Read more about computerized vs. mechanical machines if you aren’t clear on the difference.

Okay now let’s get started.

What to Look for In a Portable Sewing Machine

Obviously size is a big factor in portability. It is much easier to tote around a 12 lb sewing machine than a 20 lb machine. My main sewing machine that I’ve sewn on for years weighs about 18 lbs.

Another thing that stands out to me is having a machine that is simple and low cost. It would be devastating to drop an expensive computerized sewing machine and break or damage it – some of these machines can cost thousands of dollars.

Also, what features are a must for you? Some seamstresses have their main, heavy-duty bells and whistles machine at home that stays there and they just want to have a simple, lightweight machine to move around with. Or maybe you are going to have one and only machine but you want it to be full of as many features as you can get, yet light enough to go to sewing classes or other trips.

Top Picks for Lightweight Sewing Machines

These 5 are full-featured sewing machines from trusted brands and each of them are lightweight machines. This is an overview of the weight, various features, and the cost. Continue reading below for a more in-depth breakdown of each of these machines.

Brother XM2701Janome 660Singer 2277 Singer 5400Brother HC1850

Weight12.6 lbs11.6 lbs13.6 lbs13.6 lbs13.2 lbs Built-In Stitches27122360130 Easy Buttonholes1, 1-step 1, 4-step1, 1-step4, 1-step8, 1-step Needle ThreaderAutomaticAutomaticAutomaticAutomaticAutomatic Slider Speed ControlNoNoNoNoYes Thread CutterNoYesYesNoYes Max Speed800650650750850 Presser Feet Included65338 Current Price

Brother XM2701 Lightweight, Full-Featured Sewing Machine

The Brother XM2701 is a mechanical sewing machine weighing in at just 12 lbs. and it has a full range of user friendly features that are great for beginners as well as experienced sewers. You get 27 stitch options that are clearly labeled on a convenient turn dial. There is one style of buttonhole, which could be a turnoff for those wanting various styles built-in.

Additional Features to Consider:

Automatic needle threader makes threading your needle simple and fast

Jam-resistant top drop-in bobbin

Built-in free arm for sewing cuffs and sleeves

Includes 6 quick change presser feet (buttonhole, zipper, zigzag, narrow hemmer, blind stitch and button sewing foot)

Overall the Brother XM2701 was designed for ease-of-use and portability. Reviewers are mostly happy with it saying it is lightweight and dependable. Some reviewers complained about the sensitivity of the foot pedal.

It does not have a built-in handle and it does not come with a case. The Brother Universal Sewing Machine Carrying Case would be a good investment. I own one of these for my Brother sewing machine and it was a worthwhile purchase.

Janome Jem Gold 660 12-Stitch Compact Lightweight Sewing Quilting Machine

The Janome Jem Gold 660 weighs only 11.6 lbs. so it is definitely lightweight and portable, and it has enough convenience features and stitches to satisfy a beginner as well as an experienced seamstress. There are 12 stitches to choose from using a turn dial and one 4-step buttonhole.

Features of this Machine:

Easy reverse button

Built-in needle threader

Free arm

Top loading full rotary hook bobbin

One hand thread cutter

Extra high presser foot lift

5 included presser feet (standard, buttonhole foot, overedge foot, sliding buttonhole foot, zig-zag foot)

Overall this is a great compact sewing machine from a trusted brand. Janome machines overall are known for being very well-built machines whether you are spending $100 or $1,000.

This does not have a built-in handle and it does not come with a carrying case but Janome has several options for cases and rolling trolleys. These are a worthwhile investment if you will be toting your machine from place to place.

SINGER 2277 Tradition Sewing Machine

The Singer 2277 weighs 13.6 lbs. and it has 23 built-in stitches and a fully automatic 1 step buttonhole. This is a nice lightweight, inexpensive basic sewing machine.

Additional Features:

Automatic needle threader

Adjustable stitch length & width

Free arm with accessory storage

Heavy duty metal interior frame

Automatic reverse

Twin needle capability

Cabinet mountable

Overall owners of this machine are happy and say they were pleasantly surprised with the quality despite the low price. Other reviewers wished they had saved up just a little bit more to get a machine with more features.

The Singer 2277 does not have a built-in handle but you can purchase the Singer Universal Hard Carrying Case separately.

SINGER 5400 Sew Mate Sewing Machine

The Singer 5400 is the first electronic sewing machine in this list, which means it has touch button controls and some additional convenience features. This machine has 60 built-in stitches and 4 buttonholes.

Additional Features:

Automatic needle threader

Push button stitch selection

13 needle positions

Automatic reverse

Automatic presser foot pressure

Extra-High presser foot lifter

Free arm

Heavy duty metal frame for skip free sewing

Up to 6.5 mm stitch width

This machine does not have a built-in handle but you can purchase the Singer Universal Hard Carrying Case separately.

Brother HC1850 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine

The Brother HC1850 is another computerized sewing machine with convenient touch button controls. It has the most features and stitches of the machines mentioned her, yet weighs only 13.2 lbs. so it is easily portable.

With 130 built-in stitches, which includes monogramming, you have options for days. The stitches are shown on a convenient flip chart attached to front of machine and you choose your stitch with the touch of a button.

If you are looking for a portable quilting sewing machine, the Brother HC1850 is a perfect option. This particular machine has additional quilting features including a detachable wide table, spring action quilting foot, 14 quilting stitch functions, and the ability to do free-motion quilting.

Additional Features:

Automatic needle threader

Quick set bobbin

Wide table for large projects

Large backlit LCD screen

Drop feed for free motion quilting

8 presser feet included (Zigzag foot, Overcasting foot, Monogramming foot, Zipper foot, Blind stitch foot, Buttonhole foot, Button sewing foot, Quilting foot)

This is the only machine in this list that has variable speed control so if that is an important feature for you (this is one of my must have features

), then the Brother HC1850 is a good fit. This has built-in handle, which makes carrying it around a breeze. You can also purchase a carrying case for protection.

Overall Summary About Portable Lightweight Sewing Machines

The machines mentioned here are great options if you are looking for a full-featured sewing machine that is light enough to comfortably take along with you to sewing classes, family trips, or other situations where you need to move your sewing machine.

Keep in mind that this is not an end all be all list. There are definitely more machines out there that fit the profile for a great lightweight sewing machine. A couple more machines that I can throw out there if you want some additional options are: Brother Project Runway CS5055PRW Electric Sewing Machine, which weighs in at 10.65 lbs. and the Singer 3333 Fashion Mate, which weighs 12.57 lbs.

I hope this comparison has helped you narrow down your choices, but keep in mind that I do not own all of these machines. Although I’ve sewn on Brother, Singer, and Janome machines, sewing machines can vary so much from brand to brand and model to model so I also highly recommend reading reviews and doing some additional research if you are undecided. This provides a lot of insight from real users. Good luck on your sewing machine shopping and I am happy to answer questions if you have any.

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/best-portable-lightweight-sewing-machines/

#Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons

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sewingmachinesavvy · 7 years

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Best Mini Sewing Machines – Top Picks for Cheap, Small Sewing Machines

Mini sewing machines are small lightweight sewing machines that are usually under 5 lbs. and pretty inexpensive. These sewing machines are cheap and very small, which makes them easily portable. Keep in mind that these are meant for very light and simple sewing – we’re talking just a couple layers of fabric. They are not going to be used for any kind of heavy-duty sewing or thick fabrics. Most people use for traveling or just to have a simple machine at home for basic sewing. These might be a good option for a kids sewing machine if you have a child who is interested and you don’t want to spend a lot of money on something they may lose interest in.

Because of the size and cost, a mini sewing machine is not going to have most of the high tech convenience features that a full-size machine will have, though a couple of the machines featured here have a few bells and whistles.

With that said let’s take a look at some top selling mini sewing machines. amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit0"; amzn_assoc_search_bar = "true"; amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "quoforterlif-20"; amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "manual"; amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon"; amzn_assoc_region = "US"; amzn_assoc_title = "Top Mini Sewing Machines"; amzn_assoc_linkid = "219e6638f9b1e48adedc878dabb0b8ad"; amzn_assoc_asins = "B06Y2CJMWD,B0151DMY1S,B0021L9322,B00EA08LBG";

Amado Portable Sewing Double Speed Mini Sewing Machine

This mini machine weighs less than 2 pounds so it is definitely tiny. It is the smallest and cheapest of the machines reviewed here and definitely the most simple.

Owners of this machine were pleasantly surprised at the quality of the Amado Portable Sewing Machine and said it does a very good job when sewing even a few layers of fabric.

Features:

Can be run on batteries of plugged into a way.

There is a foot pedal so you can control it manually.

Variable speed options – high and low speed

Comes with an easy-to-read and well laid out manual

Overall this little machine is a great option if you truly want something small and portable yet strong enough to actually do some real sewing. You’re getting a simple machine that does a simple straight stitch.

Michley LSS-505 Lil’ Sew & Sew Multi-Purpose Sewing Machine

This machine weighs a couple pounds more than the previous machine and looks more like a mini small version of a traditional sewing machine. The Michley LSS-505 mini machine has some nice features and costs less than $50.

Features:

8 built-in stitch patterns

Variable speed control

Automatic thread rewind

Includes 2 thread spools, 2 bobbins, needle, threader, foot pedal, and AC adaptor

Like most mini sewing machines this is recommended for basic fabrics and lightweight sewing. If you need to sew thicker fabrics like denim or draperies, or if you need a heavy-duty sewing machine, then this is not a good choice for your needs. It is a good choice if you are truly a beginner and want to try out sewing.

My only concern with this machine is this quality. Many reviewers expressed frustration with the short life of this machine and some wished they had spent just a bit more to get something better.

NEX Sewing Machine Free-Arm Crafting Mending Machine

This mini sewing machine is definitely cute with its white and pink color scheme and it weighs just under 5 lbs. It has some nice features like built-in stitches, a thread cutter, and this is the first of the mini sewing machines in this article that has an automatic buttonhole feature.

Features:

12 built-in stitch patterns

One 4-step automatic buttonhole

Foot pedal and variable speed control

Built-in handle for easy portability

Can be operated of 4 AA batteries

Adjustable stitch length and zigzag width

One reviewer bought this machine when she was looking for a lightweight machine that could be taken on trips and was capable of handling all the normal tasks of clothing construction and be operated with batteries on camping trips. She said she was surprised at how well this machine worked considering its size and weight.

Overall another good choice for an inexpensive basic and small machine. Keep in mind that if you think you might outgrow this machine over time, with just a slightly bigger budget you could still stay under $100 and get a better sewing machine that will last for years as you expand your sewing skills.

Janome Turbo Teal Basic Sewing Machine

This is the first of our mini sewing machines by a well-known major brand. Janome is known for its quality and cutting-edge technology and has machines that can cost over $1,000. This mini sewing machine has the most features of the ones reviewed here and costs the most out of the four, but still respectively under $70.

Features:

Ten stitch options.

Straight, ZigZag, Multi-Stitch ZigZag, Crescent / Scallop Stitches.

Top loading bobbin system with clear cover.

Presser foot with finger guard (perfect for kids)

Left and center needle position.

Adjustable tension.

Reverse lever.

Free arm.

Extra-high presser foot lift.

Push-pull bobbin winder system.

Weighing in at only 5 lbs the Janome Turbo Basic Sewing Machine is easily portable and perfect for sewing on the go. It is pictured here in teal but this model actually comes in over a dozen fun colors, which is also why I reviewed it as a perfect kids sewing machine, but also great for adults who want something in a bright color.

Final Word on Mini Sewing Machines

Overall mini sewing machines are great depending on your need – f you want a simple inexpensive machine to have around the house for mending or other lightweight projects; or if you need something portable that can be operated on batteries; or if you are truly a beginner and want to spend a small amount of money to try sewing.

If you think you’ll be using this often and will outgrow it, you may want to consider spending just a little bit more – even another $30 to $50 would get you a higher quality machine with more features and will last for years. See my reviews for sewing machines under $100 for more information and comparison.

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/best-mini-sewing-machines-top-picks-for-cheap-small-sewing-machines/

#Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons

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Best Sewing Machine for Kids – My Top Picks

Do you have a child or grandchild who is interested in sewing? Do they ask to use your sewing machine? Sewing is an awesome craft for kids and young enthusiasts to learn. My daughter is very creative and enjoys crafts of all types. She became more and more interested in sewing and I didn’t feel comfortable letting her use my more expensive and complicated computerized sewing machine. So when she was old enough I decided to get her her own little girls first sewing machine. Whether you want to pass down your love of sewing or if you have a child who is self interested, choosing a good starter machine for a young girl or boy requires a different eye than choosing a machine for adults and advanced sewists.

This article will help you learn what to look for when shopping for the best kids sewing machine.

What Makes a Kids Sewing Machine Different?

I want to start out by making a distinction between two types of sewing machines for kids that you can choose. First you have very inexpensive toy-like sewing machine (sometimes called a pretend play sewing machine) that typically costs under $50. These are toys and won’t have the durability of a very basic true beginner sewing machine that a young enthusiast can grow on. If that is what you are looking for I won’t be doing any reviews for those here. I am more focused on beginner machines that have a solid build with simple and basic features perfect for kids (and a low price tag too).

Here are several great options for sewing machines for kids – some from each of the most well-known brands. Continue reading below for a more in-depth overview of each one.

Computerized or MechanicalStitches / ButtonholeAuto ThreaderBobbin Type Janome FastlaneMechanical10 / noneYes Singer 2259Mechanical19 / 4-stepNo Brother XM1010Mechanical10 / 4-stepNo Singer 7258Computerized 100 / 7 Janome 13512Mechanical15 / none Brother CS6000iComputerized60 / 7 Singer 3232 Mechanical32 / 1

What to Look for In a Kids Sewing Machine

Keep in mind that just because a machine isn’t specifically labeled kids sewing machine doesn’t mean it isn’t. What you buy for your child will depend on your budget, what features you need, and really how advanced or comfortable your child or grandchild is. There are many beginner sewing machines that are computerized and cost a little bit more that would be perfect for a mature child who is responsible enough to take care of it.

Here are some key things to look out for when you shop for a sewing machine for a child.

Computerized or Mechanical. On a very basic level there are 2 types of sewing machines. Computerized sewing machines have a computer in them so you get automatic features and touch button controls. With a mechanical machine there is no computer or digital LCD screen and you choose your stitches by a turn dial. Most kids sewing machines will be mechanical. I wrote a more in-depth article about it here.

Finger Guard. This is a safety feature used during sewing to prevent any unintentional touching of the needle during sewing. Some machines have them built-in while other brands have a guard you can buy separately and attach.

Built-in Stitches. There are some machines that have hundreds of stitches but for a beginner kids sewing machine this is really unnecessary. Most of the time sewing projects require just a basic straight stitch and any extras are just for fun. A simple machine with a few stitches is perfect for a child who is learning and building their skills. And for 90% of sewing you will use a very simple straight stitch.

Needle Threader. Threading the needle on a sewing machine could prove to be one of the more challenging aspects of sewing for a child, depending on their age. Some machines come with automatic needle threader. For the machines that don’t, your child may ask you for help.

Speed Control. Some machines have a way to speed up and slow down the sewing speed, which can be very helpful for a young sewer. Some kids may want to go very slow at first to gain control and experience. As experience grows they will be able to sew faster and faster. This is a helpful feature even for most adults.

Aesthetics. Last but not least you may consider the look of the machine – the colors, designs, branding and other aspects that may suit your child’s personality. In my reviews below you will see a fun Hello Kitty sewing machine that many little girls would adore as well as some machines in fun color combinations.

In Depth Review of Each Machine

Janome Fastlane Basic Compact Sewing Machine

The Janome Fastlane is an ideal choice for a simple, yet strong machine. At just 5 pounds it is portable and easily stored. It comes in 12 fun and easy color combinations so you are sure to find out that would be a fit for your child.

Janome Fastlane Fuschia Basic, Easy-to-Use, 10-Stitch Portable, Compact Sewing Machine with Free Arm only 5 pounds

List Price: $69.99

Price: $68.94

You Save: $1.05

Price Disclaimer

Features of the Janome Fastlane:

10 stitch options – including Straight, ZigZag, Multi-Stitch ZigZag, Crescent / Scallop Stitches.

Top loading bobbin system with clear cover.

Presser foot with finger guard protects little fingers.

Left and center needle position.

Adjustable tension.

Four-point feed dog system.

Easy stitch selection.

Reverse lever.

Free arm.

Extra-high presser foot lift.

Push-pull bobbin winder system.

This is a mechanical sewing machine and it has very basic features to get a child started with light sewing projects. Some features it does not have that you may want are an automatic needle threader and speed control.

SINGER 2259 Tradition Easy-to-Use Free-Arm 19-Stitch Sewing Machine

The Singer 2259 is a cute little sewing machine because it has the look of a full size advanced Singer machine but on a smaller level.

SINGER 2259 Tradition Easy-to-Use Free-Arm 19-Stitch Sewing Machine

List Price: $96.28

Price: $96.28

Price Disclaimer

. It is a great machine for a child who is just beginning to learn (in fact many adults choose this machine as a starter too). It has a simple design yet sturdy build, and plenty of features that will accommodate a growing skill set. It also has a built-in handle, which makes it easily portable.

Features of the Singer 2259:

Automatic needle threader (big time saver)

Built-in thread cutter

Adjustable stitch length and zigzag width allow you to customize stitches

19 built-in stitches with 1 fully automatic 4-step buttonhole provide endless project possibilities

Four snap-on presser feet expand your creative sewing possibilities

Easy stitch selection makes choosing your stitches a breeze.

Interior frame is metal (exterior is made of plastic)

Another feature to point out is it has screw holes on the bottom so it can be mounted to a desk or sewing table. Overall this is a great basic starter machine. It doesn’t come in any bright colors but it has all of the features that many machines twice its cost have. This is also a mechanical sewing machine (no fancy buttons or computers) and it does do buttonholes as opposed to the Janome above.

Brother XM1010

The Brother XM1010 is another affordable lightweight full size sewing machine that is perfect for kids.

Brother XM1010 with 10 stitches, 4-Step Auto-Size Buttonholer, 4 Sewing', & instructional DVD

List Price: $101.99

Price: $101.99

Price Disclaimer

. It has a nice amount of convenience features that make sewing easier, though it does not have an automatic needle threader or speed control

Features of the Brother XM1010:

Full-sized yet lightweight and portable sewing machine, designed for everyday sewing and mending

10 built-in stitches – including blind hem, zigzag and stretch stitches

Four-step auto-size buttonholer

4 Included sewing feet, with Buttonhole, zipper, zigzag and button sewing feet

Automatic bobbin winder

Jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin

Easy stitch selector dial

Reverse sewing

Built-in free arm

Thread tension control

Bright LED lighting

At about 10 lbs it is not too heavy for a child and still portable. Keep in mind that when you compare a 5 lb machine vs. a 10 lb machine, the heavier machine will be able to handle more “heavy duty” projects. And I don’t mean you can sew through layers of leather or denim with this machine but it could handle a little bit more without scooting around and moving.

Singer 7258 100-Stitch Computerized Sewing Machine

This is our first look at a computerized sewing machine. The Singer 7258 is another option if you think your child is ready to handle a more advanced machine.

SINGER 7258 100-Stitch Computerized Sewing Machine with DVD, 10 Presser Feet and Metal Frame

List Price: $160.00

Price: $135.99

You Save: $24.01

Price Disclaimer

A computerized machine has an lcd display with touch button controls. It will also have more automatic controls, which are nice to have. This machine has a whopping 100 built-in stitches and 7 styles of buttonholes.

Features of the Singer 7258:

100 built-in stitches

7 styles of one-step buttonholes

Automatic needle threader

Memorized Up / Down needle stop position (you are able to either have the needle always stop down or up)

Variable speed control

Twin needle capability (this means there can be 2 needles in one shaft, allowing for two different colored threads)

Automatic Tension

Top Loading Bobbin System with Clear Cover.

Automatic Locking Straight Stitch Function.

Automatic Reverse

Automatic Presser Foot Pressure.

The SINGER 7258 Stylist is a two time Consumers Digest award winner, which means it received high marks by consumers based on their combination of eight criteria: performance, ease of use, features, quality of construction, warranty, efficiency, styling, and maintenance and service requirements. This is definitely a more advanced machine but still intuitive and easy enough to use for a beginner.

At 15 lbs it has a good amount of weight to it and it also comes with a hard case with convenient handle so it is definitely portable.

Janome 13512 Hello Kitty Sewing Machine

Yes this machine is absolutely adorable and is sure to light up the eyes of almost any young girl interested in sewing.

Brother cs6000i 60-Stitch Computerized Sewing Machine with Wide Table

List Price: $159.00

Price: $153.99

You Save: $5.01

Price Disclaimer

This is a solid mechanical sewing machine that comes in three fun Hello Kitty color combinations.

Features of Janome 13512:

12 built-in stitches clearly printed on the front of the machine for easy viewing.

Easy reverse lever – simply hold down this lever to sew backwards to lock a stitch.

Manual thread tension control -tighten or loosen then tension of the thread to your preference for your sewing project.

Adorable design

At 14 lbs this is a solidly built machine from the trusted Janome brand. I adore Janome sewing machines. They are well built machines and this one is no different. Check out my other review of three more Hello Kitty Sewing Machines where I talk about how these machines are actually high quality machines not just for play.

Brother CS6000i 60-Stitch Computerized Sewing Machine

This is Amazon.com’s best selling sewing machine for a reason – it is versatile, feature-packed, and affordable.

Brother cs6000i 60-Stitch Computerized Sewing Machine with Wide Table

List Price: $159.00

Price: $153.99

You Save: $5.01

Price Disclaimer

This is another computerized machine so it has more bells and whistles, and would be suitable for a child who is mature enough to take care of it (or for a parent / adult and child who will be working side by side). Because it has a lot of buttons and programmable controls it could be confusing for very young sewers.

Features of Brother CS6000i:

Simple to use LCD stitch selector

Automatic threading with clear instructions (once you get used to doing this is literally takes 6 seconds and you won’t ever want to be without it

)

Adjustable sewing speed

Stop/start button allows use without included foot control

Built-in free arm for sewing sleeves, pant legs, etc

An oversize table designed for larger projects

Easy bobbin winding

Jam-resistant Quick-set top drop-in bobbin

Built-in accessory storage

This machine definitely has all the features a young enthusiast needs as well as anybody else in the home. It has a very affordable price tag that can comfortably accommodate most budgets.

Singer 3232

This is another great basic beginner sewing machine from Singer and it costs right around $100.

Singer 3232 Simple Sewing Machine with Automatic Needle Threader, 32 Stitches

List Price: $199.99

Price: $120.99

You Save: $79.00

Price Disclaimer

This machine has some purple colors in it as opposed to the all white Singer 2259 listed above, which has very similar features. The biggest difference is that the Singer 3232 has an automatic needle threader, which is a big time saver. If that is a must have feature for you then go with this one.

Additional features of the Singer 3232 Simple Sewing Machine:

60 built-in stitches

Fully automatic 1-step buttonhole

Automatic needle threader is the biggest time saver

Heavy duty metal frame for overall durability and skip-free sewing.

Simple Stitch Selection

Up to 5 mm Stitch Width

Heavy Duty Metal Frame

Extra High Presser Foot Lifter

Automatic Reverse

Accessory Storage

Adjustable Stitch Length & Width

Free Arm

This is the highest priced machine of the ones listed here and that is because it has a lot of features and can handle heavier fabrics. This machine will be great for a mature child or tween / teen interested in sewing and can also be a perfect machine for the entire household to use.

The Bottom Line on Kids Sewing Machines

If you’ve made it this far then you can see that there are many options for a great kids sewing machine and really the best sewing machine for your child will depend on your child’s age and experience, what features you really want (mechanical vs. computerized) and your budget (under $100 or over $100).

Here are my top picks:

Janome Fastlane – Great machine if you want an ultra basic mechanical machine with fun kids colors for girls and boys. Singer 2259 – If you want a machine with a few more stitches that can also do buttonholes. Singer 7258 – This is an affordably priced computerized sewing machine with touch button controls and automatic features. Brother cs6000i – Amazon’s best selling sewing machine. This is a computerized sewing machine with lots of bells and whistles.

I hope this article helps you find the best kids sewing machine for your family’s needs and budget. Like I mentioned earlier there are so many

Let me know if you have any questions. I do my best to respond to everyone

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/best-sewing-machine-for-kids/

#Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons

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SINGER 9960 Quantum Stylist Computerized Sewing Machine Revew

This is an in depth review of the Singer 9960 Quantum Stylist 600 Stitch Computerized Sewing machine which is a power-packed and feature-packed machine at a very reasonable price range. If you are ready to move on from basic and beginner sewing projects or if you want to invest in a feature-packed machine from the get go, the Singer 9960 is a great choice.

I will go over the following features and aspects of the Singer 9960:

Overall features

Built-in stitches and buttonholes

Presser feet and accessories included

A video demo

What users have to say (reviews)

The pros and cons

And the best current price

So let’s get started!

Introduction to the SINGER 9960 Quantum Stylist Computerized Sewing Machine

The Singer 9960 has a myriad of automated and push button controls for just about everything, which makes it great for a beginner as well as an advanced sewist.

Automatic thread cutter

Automatic needle threader

Automatic stitch length & width

Automatic buttonholes

Automatic tension

It also offers a convenient drop-in bobbin system and it has a 7 point box feed system, which provides smooth even sewing without bunching up the fabric.

Feed dogs are pretty important (and what a funny name) because they pull the fabric through the machine. The box motion assists with perfect feeding throughout the entire feed process because the feed dogs are always in equal contact with the fabric and presser foot.

Here is a link to the instruction manual, which provides a lot of info on the features and specs of the Singer 9960.

Let’s get into more details.

Overall Features of This Machine

Here is a general overview of the features and accessories included with the Singer 9960. Continue reading below for a more in depth explanation of some of the features included in this table.

Name Photo

Built-In-Stitches600 Buttonhole Styles13 fully automatic 1-step buttonholes Needle Threading SystemAutomatic Easy Bobbin WindingYes Automatic Thread CutterYes Presser Feet Included19 Presser Foot Pressure AdjustmentYes Feed Dog7 Point Box Feed System Quick Set BobbinYes Max Sewing Speed (stitches per minute)850 spm Stitch Width7mm Speed ControllerYes Automatic Needle Up / DownNo Drop Feed / Free MotionYes Free ArmYes Knee LifterNo Accessory StorageYes Carrying CaseYes Machine Weight18.2 lbs Machine Dimensions17"L x 8.25"W x 12"H Warranty25/5/1 Year Limited Warranty (25 year limited on the sewing machine head, Limited 5 year warranty on motors, light, assembly, wiring, switches, speed control and electronic components, and a limited 1 year warranty on adjustments, belts, rings, bulbs, and attachments) Current Rating (from Amazon)

4.3/ 5.0 Current Price

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Singer 9960 LCD Screen and Control Panel

This machine has huge and crystal clear LCD screen. This part of the machine is referred to as the ‘Digital Information Advisor’ – which is just a fancy name for this push button digital technology of a computerized machine.

There are over 2 dozen buttons but it really is simple to use as you get to know it. The owners guide are very helpful in the beginning.

At the touch of a button you can quickly and easily select your desired stitch, length and width, and you will also see a recommended presser foot.

SINGER 9960 Quantum Stylist Built-In Stitches

But the fact that is has so many stitches and different buttonholes means you will have a stitch for anything you could possibly want to do

The stitches are printed on a chart in the upper lid of the machine, which you then select using the LCD and touch button controls. Here is a breakdown of the 600 built-in-stitches:

103 built-in utility sewing stitches

13 styles of buttonholes

34 decorative sewing stitches

90 upper case, lower case, numbers, and characters in 5 different fonts (450 stitches in total)

Presser Feet and Included Accessories

Adjustable bias binder foot

Single-welt cording foot

Braiding foot and guide

Stitch-in-the-ditch foot

Fancy-trim foot

Clear piping foot

Clearance plate

All-purpose foot

Zipper foot

Button sewing foot

Satin stitch foot

Buttonhole foot with underplate

Open toe foot

Blind hem foot

Overcasting foot

Narrow hem foot

Cording foot

1/4-inch foot

Darning & embroidery foot

Even feed foot

Video Demo

Here is a video showing the versatility of this machine in action.

youtube

User Reviews of the SINGER 9960 Quantum Stylist Computerized Sewing Machine

4.3 / 5.0

The majority of users of this machine absolutely love it.

Users were impressed with how quiet it is and how beautifully it sews. Others commented on the fact that is really is a great machine for all sewing levels.

Owners also commented on how easily it sews through several layers of fabric.

Pros and Cons of the Singer 9960

PROS

Very quiet yet powerful and smooth sewing

Heavy duty metal frame and large work space

Lots of features but it is intuitive and easy-to-use, even for beginners

CONS

No knee lifter which is a convenient feature

Some reviewers complain about problems with tension.

The Singer 9960 Quantum Stylist is a Great Value

The Singer 9960 really is a wonderful machine from the the trusted Singer brand. Many say that it really has all the features you could ever need. You get high end functions and smart

SINGER 9960 Quantum Stylist 600-Stitch Computerized Sewing Machine with Extension Table, Bonus Accessories and Hard Cover

List Price: $351.18

Price: $351.18

Price Disclaimer

technology. With a mind boggling number of built-in stitches, tons of automatic and convenient features, a large sewing space, and solid heavy-duty metal interior frame, it is an excellent investment at a fraction of the cost of machines with similar features.

With a price tag under $400, this is a great value. And to top it off – with its sleek style, huge LCD screen, and white and light gray colors, its not a bad looking machine either.

If your budget is a little smaller then check out some great machines priced under $200.

Let me know if you have any questions. I’ll do my best to answer. Happy sewing

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/singer-9960-quantum-stylist-computerized-sewing-machine-revew/

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Janome DC2015 Sewing Machine Review

This is an in depth review of the Janome DC2015 computerized sewing machine including its overall features, the built-in stitches and buttonholes, presser feet, accessories, a video demo, what users have to say, the pros and cons, and the best price.

Introduction to the Janome DC2015

The Janome DC2015 is a great machine from the dependable and trusted Janome brand and overall it is a fantastic value in the computerized sewing machine category.

One thing to know about this machine is that Janome puts out a new one each year so the model number matches the year it was made. The only thing that changes is the color. The features remain generally the same. The 2015 model is a striking red but a good thing about it is if you aren’t a fan of the red color then check out the previous years models. The DC2011 is pink, the DC2012 is green, and the DC 2013 is blue, the DC 2014 is purple. (I did an in-depth review of the 2014 model here). They are all very similar, though the 2015 has a few new standard features.

New Features for 2015

One new addition to this year’s model is a larger LED screen, which is controlled with the silver touch ring to the right. I love this modern and sleek looking feature on this machine.

Another change with this year’s model is that the needle up / down memory is now set to needle down as the default.

And for 2015 there are 60 stitches (vs 50 stitches in the purple DC2014) and 6 built in buttonholes (vs. the previous model’s 3).

Overall Features

Here is a general overview of the features and accessories included with the Janome DC2015. Continue reading below for a more in depth overview of each of the features included in this table.

Features Janome DC 2015 Computerized Sewing Machine

Built-In-Stitches60 Stitch SelectionLCD Buttonhole Styles6 One-Step Buttonholes Needle Threading SystemAutomatic Easy Bobbin WindingYes Automatic Thread CutterYes Presser Feet Included6 Feed DogYes 7-piece feed dog Quick Set BobbinYes Max Sewing Speed (stitches per minute)860 spm Stitch WidthAdjustable (max of 7mm) Stitch LengthAdjustable (max of 5mm) Speed ControllerYes (Slider) Automatic Needle Up / DownYes Drop Feed / Free MotionYes Accessory StorageYes Carrying CaseCanvas Tote Included Machine Weight18.2 lbs WarrantyJanome 25 Year Limited Warranty Current Rating (Amazon.com) Current Price

Built-In Stitches

The Janome DC2015 has 60 built-in stitches. The stitches are clearly printed on the front of the machine for easy selection.

Just scroll through the stitches using the buttons and select your desired stitch. Below each stitch is the recommended foot to use.

A plus with this machine is the variety of stitche it has. Sure there are machines with more built-in stitches, but with 60 you can do just about anything with this combination of stitches:

Stretch stitches

Utility stitches

Quilting stitches

Garment stitches

Applique

There are also 6 one-step sensor-type buttonholes built-in so you can make the perfect buttonhole for your project.

Presser Feet Included

The presser feet snap off at the push of a button. Then simply lower the ankle onto the foot and snap another one back on. This is a great feature that saves a lot of time.

Satin stitch foot F: For sewing dense zigzag stitching. The bottom of the foot is beveled for smooth delivery of the thread when sewing decorative or satin stitches.

Zipper foot E: For use when sewing in zippers.

Automatic buttonhole foot R (9mm): This is a buttonhole foot for making an automatic buttonhole. This foot works with a sensor on your sewing machine so that it makes the exact size buttonhole for the button you are using. The button is placed in the slot at the back of the foot, and the foot adjusts to the size of the button. There is a sensor on the machine which works with the foot to create a buttonhole the appropriate size. This is an incredibly easy way to make a buttonhole!

Overedge foot C: Use with an overcasting stitch to allow the thread to wrap around the edge of the fabric to prevent unraveling. =

Blind hem foot G: The blind hem foot has a metal guide in the center and three grooves on the underside. During blind hemming, the fold of the fabric fits snugly against the guide in the foot for accuracy while the grooves underneath help to prevent unnecessary slipping. The needle swings over the metal guide creating slack in the upper tension so that the pick of the stitch is almost invisible.

Zig Zag Foot: This comes standard on all Janome Sewing machines and is used for most utility sewing, from straight stitch to zig-zag

Open Toe Satin Foot: The open toe on this foot allows a better view of the sewing in progress. This foot can be used for quilting, monogramming, applique and cutwork.

Accessories Included

Canvas tote

2 pack size 14 needles

2 pack of 10 Janome bobbins

Seam ripper / buttonhole opener

Screwdriver

Lint brush

Quilter bar

Foot control

Additional spool pin

Spool pin felt

Spool stand

Spool holder (large)

Spool holder (small)

Instruction book

Power supply cord

The canvas tote is a great value. There is a hard cover available for this machine if you want something with more protection.

Video Demo

Here is a short video demos of the DC2015 in use.

User Reviews

The user reviews for the Janome DC2015 are overall positive.

Average Rating by Users: 5 / 5

Reviews rave about how quiet the machine is, yet it is sturdy and vast. Reviewers also praise the detail and easy to follow steps in the instruction manual.

This is a popular machine among quilters with many praising the “stitch down” feature and the 1/4-inch foot for sewing seams for quilts.

Pros and Cons of the Janome DC2015

PROS

Solid construction, yet it is lightweight and portable

Superior feed system and excellent stitch quality

Large LED screen is bright and easy to use

CONS

At just over $500, it may be out of the price range for some shoppers.

Location of the drop feed mechanism is inconvenient

Overall Summary

The Janome DC2015 computerized sewing machineJanome DC2015 computerized sewing machine is an excellent sewing machine for the advanced sewist who wants to upgrade. It’s also a great machine for beginner because it has all the features you need but it is also intuitive, user-friendly, and easy to learn and understand.

The stitch quality on this is amazing. With this you can easily make quilts, home decor items, clothing, do repair and heavy duty sewing, as well as make delicate blouses or dresses.

The Janome brand is well-known for quality and durability. You will not find this brand in your local big box stores, but if you do your research you will see that Janome is a very well respected name always at the cutting edge of sewing technology.

Current Price>Best Price

Janome DC2015 Computerized Sewing Machine with Exclusive Bonus Bundle

List Price: $599.00

Price: $599.00

Price Disclaimer

You can find the DC2015 on Amazon.

Sometimes you can find “open box” deals on Amazon where you can save up to $100 or so off on this machine and others. Essentially you are getting an almost new machine that someone returned. Keep an eye out for this when you do your shopping.

A plus for ordering through Amazon is that if you are a member of of Amazon Prime you can get it shipped to your door in under 2 days. (I highly recommend this. I’ve been a Prime member since 2009 and I’ve saved so much time and money shopping on Amazon )

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/janome-dc2015-sewing-machine-review/

#Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons

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sewingmachinesavvy · 7 years

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Janome MC-6300P Professional Heavy-Duty Quilted Sewing Machine

This is an in depth review of the Janome MC-6300P heavy duty computerized quilted sewing machine including its overall features, the built-in stitches and buttonholes, presser feet, accessories, a video demo, what users have to say, the pros and cons, and the best price. Now let’s get started!

Introduction to the Janome MC-6300P

The Janome MC-6300P, also known as the Janome Memory Craft 6300P, is another fantastic machine from the dependable and trusted Janome brand. It is a dream machine for serious quilters and overall it is highly praised in the computerized quilting sewing machine category.

At just over 26 pounds, this is a heavy duty sewing machine, that can easily handle several layers of thick fabric while sewing at up to 1,000 stitches per minute. But keep in mind that with the heavy weight, it is not necessarily a portable machine.

This MC-6300P includes many features designed especially for the quilter including: a 9″ x 5″ throat space for working with large quilts, 5 different blanket stitches for applique, a hand-look quilt stitch, an advanced feed mechanism for sewing the thickest of materials. It also has many convenience features such as a knee lifter for lifting the presser foot and a built-in thread cutter with a memory feature.

It has a nice LED Display area that shows a variety of information, including a low bobbin indicator light and twin needle guard.

Overall Features

Janome designed this particular machine for sewists who want a superior quality sewing machine without a lot of “fluff” as they call it. The result – The 6300P comes with many of the expected extras like memorized needle up/down, an independent bobbin winder, and a built-in thread cutter, but with fewer decorative stitches and buttonholes than other machines in its class.

With a 5mm maximum length and 7mm maximum width, you can easily find the right stitch size for your project. To adjust the stitch length and width, you simply press the “+” or “-“ buttons under the “width” and “length” labels.

Another nice feature of the MC-6300p is a twin guard button. This automatically adjusts the width for certain stitches.

This is a link to the instruction manual for this machine, which can give you a lot of information about its features and below is a general overview of the features and accessories included with the Janome MC-6300P.

Janome MC-6300P Professional Heavy-Duty Quilting Sewing Machine

Built-In-Stitches66 Stitch SelectionLCD Buttonhole StylesFour One-Step Buttonholes Needle Threading SystemAutomatic Easy Bobbin WindingYes Automatic Thread CutterYes Presser Feet Included15 Feed DogYes - 5 piece feed dog Quick Set BobbinYes Max Sewing Speed (stitches per minute)1000 spm Stitch WidthAdjustable (max of 7mm) Stitch LengthAdjustable (max of 5mm) Speed ControllerYes (Slider) Automatic Needle Up / DownYes Drop Feed / Free MotionYes Accessory StorageYes Carrying CaseNone Included but you will get a dust cover Machine Weight26.5 WarrantyJanome 25 Year Limited Warranty Current Rating (Amazon.com) Current Price

Built-In Stitches

The Janome MC6300-P has 66 built-in stitches. The stitches are clearly printed on the guide on the machine for easy selection.

Using the LCD screen, simply scroll through the stitches using the buttons and select the one you want to use. Below each stitch is the recommended foot to use. All of the stitches are broken down into four categories, which makes it even easier to find the stitch you want

This machine is praised for its quilting but the wide variety of stitches make it a great machine for just about any project.

There are also four one-step sensor-type buttonholes built-in.

Presser Feet Included

Changing presser feet on this machine couldn’t be easier because they snap off at the push of a button. Then simply lower the ankle onto the foot and snap another one back on. Here are some of the standard presser feet that come with the machine, along with a brief description of what they do.

1/4 Inch Seam Foot – A popular foot with patchworkers for that essential 1/4 inch seam. This enables you to sew a perfect 1/4 inch seam every time

3-way Cording Foot – The 3-way Cording foot will hold one, two or three fine cords or threads.

Automatic Buttonhole Foot – For sewing buttonholes on tight areas such as cuffs and other areas where more freedom of movement is required than available with a sliding-type buttonhole foot

Blind Hem Foot G – Helps to improve this tricky technique where the fold of the fabric fits snugly against the guide in the foot for accuracy wile the groove underneath help to prevent unnecessary slipping

Bobbin (specialized) – Designed for Memory Craft embroidery and computerized models

Open Toe Darning Low Foot Shank – Used for “free hand” embroidery and darning to ensure proper stitch formation, minimize skipped stitches and puckering and also protect your fingers

Open Toe with Quilting Guide – Also known as the even feed or walking foot, is designed with a set of feed dogs which allow the fabric to feed without shirting

Open Toe Satin Stitch Foot – This allows a better view of the sewing in progress. This foot can be used for quilting, monogramming, applique and cutwork

Overedge Foot – Use with an overcasting stitch to allow thread to wrap around the edge of the fabric to prevent unraveling

Satin Stitch Foot F

Satin Stitch Foot – For sewing dense zigzag stitching

Sliding Buttonhole Foot – For easy 4-step buttonholes on front loading machines

Zig Zag Foot – This is used for most utility sewing, from straight stitch to zig-zag

Zipper foot – This foot can be set to sew on each side of the zipper by adjusting the position of the foot and tightening the thumb screw. Also great for sewing close to piping

Video Demo

Here is a short video demo of the MC-6300P in use.

User Reviews

The user reviews for the MC-6300P are overall positive.

Average Rating by Users: 4.2 / 5

Reviews praise the machine for its ability to quickly sew thick fabric without getting bogged down, yet it is surprisingly quiet. Reviewers are very happy with this model for free motion quilting. Some reviewers referred to it as a “dream machine” for quilters.

Overall owners of this machine are happy with the amount of accessories that come with it and the high stitch quality.

Pros and Cons of the Janome MC-6300P

PROS

Solid, heavy-duty sewing machine that is perfect for free motion quilting

A large 9″ x 5″ throat space for working with large quilts

A myriad of convenience features to satisfy an advanced sewer or beginning sewer

CONS

At just over $1000, it may be out of the price range for some shoppers.

No free arm, which may be a deal breaker for some sewists

Cannot change the width on the blind hem stitch

Overall Summary

At over $1,000 this is a pricey machine, but for serious quilters, it is a worthwhile investment that can take your sewing to the next level. For this price you are getting a dream machine for free motion quilting as well as a machine that can handle even heavy duty regular projects.

Janome is a very well respected name and is always at the cutting edge of sewing technology. The Janome brand is well-known for quality and durability. This reputation for quality workmanship has made Janome the largest manufacture of sewing machines in the world because other sewing machine companies contract with Janome to manufacture their sewing machines too.

I highly recommend this brand as well as this machine. I do not own this particular machine, but I own another Janome and I love it. Sewing on a Janome machine is amazing.

Current Price Best Price

Janome MC-6300P Professional Heavy-Duty Computerized Quilting Sewing Machine w/ Extension Table, Walking Foot, Darning Foot and More!

Price: $1,169.00

Price Disclaimer

You can find the Janome MC-6300P on Amazon.com

A plus for ordering through Amazon is that you can sometimes find used / open box deals for this machine and others, which can save you over $200 on an almost brand new machine. Amazon also has a generous return policy and if you are a member of of Amazon Prime you can get it shipped to your door in under 2 days. (I highly recommend this. I’ve been a Prime member since 2009 and I’ve saved so much time and money shopping on Amazon )

I hope you found this review helpful in your search for the best sewing machine for your needs. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to ask.

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/janome-mc-6300p-heavy-duty-sewing-machine/

#Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons

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sewingmachinesavvy · 7 years

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Juki HZL F600 Sewing and Quilting Machine Review

This is an in depth review of the Juki HZL F600, including its overall features, built-in stitches / patterns and buttonholes, presser feet, accessories, a video demo, what users have to say, the pros and cons, and the best current price. Let’s get started.

Introduction to the Juki HZL F600

The Juki HZL F600 is another fantastic machine from the dependable and trusted Juki brand. It is a dream machine for serious quilters and overall it is highly praised in the computerized quilting sewing machine category.

At just over 21 pounds, this is a heavy duty sewing machine, that can easily handle several layers of thick fabric while sewing at up to 900 stitches per minute.

This computerized sewing machine includes many features designed especially for the quilter including a huge 8″ x 12-1/4″ throat space for working with large quilts (this is about 4″ larger than the average workspace).

The Box Feed System

A notable feature of the Juki HZL F600 is the box feed system, which Juki adopted to provide beautiful seams and outstanding feed performance.

The traditional feed system is oval motion, whereas the box feed system moves the feed dog in a box motion. This eliminates material shrinkage and shifting.

Reviewers mention that it feeds the fabrics better than some of the other machines they’ve used.

Overall Features

Juki designed this particular machine for sewists who want a superior quality sewing machine with the power and features for quilting, home decor, and garment construction. The result – Juki HZL F600 comes with features that a quilter appreciates, but it doesn’t leave out the expected convenient and automatic features that many have come to expect.

Knee lifting lever

Foot controller with thread trimming function (this is a great function that keeps your hands free)

Automatic needle threader

Easy bobbin winding and quick bobbin preparation

Automatic and manual tension control

Variable speeds and plenty of easy access controls

Dual LED lights (provides a lot of light, which many reviewers have praised)

Large LCD display (33mm x 66mm)

Below is a general overview of the features and accessories included with the Juki HZL F600.

Features Juki HZL-F600 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine

Stitches / Patterns625 Stitches, 255 Patterns + 4 Large Fonts Stitch SelectionLCD Buttonhole Styles16 One-Step Buttonholes Needle Threading SystemAutomatic Easy Bobbin WindingYes Automatic Thread CutterYes Presser Feet Included15 Feed DogBox Feed Technology Quick Set BobbinYes Knee LiftYes Max Sewing Speed (stitches per minute)900 spm Stitch WidthAdjustable (max of 7mm) Stitch LengthAdjustable (max of 5mm) Speed ControllerYes (Slider) Automatic Needle Up / DownYes Drop Feed / Free MotionYes Accessory StorageYes Carrying CaseNone Included Machine Weight21.6 WarrantyJ5 Years Mechanical, 2 Years Electrical, 90 Days Adjustments on defects in material or workmanship Current Rating (Amazon.com) 4.7/ 5.0 Current Price

Built-In Stitches & Patterns

The Juki HZL F600 has 625 stitches, 255 sewing patterns and 4 large fonts. Here is a list of all the patterns.

With a 5mm maximum length and 7mm maximum width, you can easily find the right stitch size for your project.

There is a convenient push button direct stitch pattern selection where frequently used stitch patterns can be selected directly through the direct select mode.

This is a link to the instruction manual for this machine, which can give you a lot of information about its features.

This machine is praised for its quilting but the wide variety of stitches make it a great machine for any project.

Buttonholes Galore – 16 Styles to Choose From

With 16 buttonhole styles you have plenty of options for the perfect buttonhole depending on the fabric and style of your project.

The Juki HZL F600 does buttonholes easily and effortlessly -both boxed and keyhole buttonholes. You can do light-stitched buttonholes for shirts and heavy-weight buttonholes for coats.

You can even adjust the width of the buttonhole without increasing or decreasing the stitching size. This allows you to have thin or wide buttons, adjust buttonholes for thick or thin fabrics, and still have stable strong buttonholes.

Presser Feet and Accessories Included

Changing presser feet on this machine couldn’t be easier because they snap off at the push of a button. Here are some of the standard presser feet that come with the machine, along with a list of accessories included.

Zig Zig foot

Overcasting foot

Blindhem foot

Edge Sewing foot

Auto Buttonhole foot

Manual Buttonhole foot

Patchwork foot

Smooth foot

Open Toe foot

Quilting Free Motion foot

Walking foot

Zipper foot

Quilt Guide

Auxiliary Spool Pin

Bobbins (4)

Spool Caps (Small, Medium, Large)

Special Screw Driver

Auxiliary Spool Pin

Knee Lifter Lever

Seam Ripper

Eyelet Punch

Lint Brush

Needle Pack

Twin Needle

Foot Control

Power Cord

Instructional Manual

This is certainly enough to get started on almost any project but there are also many other presser feet and accessories available at an additional cost.

Video Demo

Here is a great video demo of the Juki HZL F600 in use by Vanessa “The Crafty Gemini”.

User Reviews

The user reviews for the Juki HZL F600 are overall positive.

Average Rating by Users: 4.7 / 5

Reviews praise the machine for all of the convenient features as well as its power and how quiet it is.

Overall owners of this machine are very happy with their purchase.

One user said if you can’t afford a Bernina, then you won’t be disappointed in the Juki HZL F600 and you’ll save thousands too.

Pros and Cons of the Juki HZL F600

PROS

A generous 8″ wide x 12-1/4″ long work space (perfect for quilting)

Can sew lightweight to heavyweight materials with ease

A myriad of automatic and convenience features

CONS

At around $1000, it may be out of the price range for some shoppers.

Could be confusing to use for a beginner

Overall Summary

At around $1,000 this is a pricey machine but serious quilters say it is a worthwhile investment that can take your sewing to the next level. For this price you are getting a heavy duty machine with tons of extras. Read some of the user reviews and you can see how happy buyers are with this machine.

Depending on where you live, you may not find this brand in your local big box stores, but if you do your research you will see that Juki is a respected name and it is a leader in industrial sewing machines.

Current Price Best Price

Juki HZL-F600 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine

List Price: $999.00

Price: $999.00

Price Disclaimer

You can find the Juki HZL-F600 on Amazon.com

If you have a little more room in your budget you may want to check out my Janome MC6300P review, which is another wonderful and powerful machine that quilters’ praise.

A plus for ordering through Amazon is that you can sometimes find used / open box deals for this machine and others, which can save you over $200 on an almost brand new machine.

Amazon also has a generous return policy and if you are a member of of Amazon Prime you can get it shipped to your door in under 2 days. (I highly recommend this. I’ve been a Prime member since 2009 and I’ve saved so much time and money )

I hope you found this review helpful in your search for the best computerized sewing machine for quilting or your other needs. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to ask.

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/juki-hzl-f600-sewing-quilting-machine-review/

#Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons

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sewingmachinesavvy · 7 years

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Brother vs Singer Sewing Machines

When you start your sewing journey you’ll see a lot of machines, but two brands will pop up a lot, particularly if you are do your shopping online – Brother and Singer sewing machines are two well known and affordably priced sewing machine brands and they have machines that will suit most needs.

Both brands target the home sewing niche and rely heavily on the internet to sell their machines so most of these brands’ models are available somewhere online.

This is opposed to other brands like Baby Lock or Husqvarna Viking that are sold through dealers only, and are considerably higher priced.

Brother Sewing Machines

Brother is a well known brand with dozens of sewing machines suitable for beginners, advanced sewers, quilters, and this brand also has a popular serger sewing machine. The best selling sewing machine on Amazon right now is the Brother CS6000i – an affordably priced machine perfect for a beginner or advanced seamstress.

The Brother CS6000i is about $150, but Brother also has machines that are over $1,000 like the SE1800 sewing and embroidery machine.

Brother CS6000iBrother SE1800 BeginnerAdvanced

The Brother brand is known for incorporating high technology into even its basic sewing machines. Brother has been a successful with the home sewing market because it provides affordable machines with a myriad of features.

They create slightly different versions of the same model, which keeps costs low but provides a wide range of choices for various needs as you can see above. You can get started with a basic machine and move up in cost and features as needed.

Singer Sewing Machines

Singer is possibly the most famous brand of sewing machines and the most well known. It was established in 1851 so we are coming up on 200 years of sewing machine history. Its name is synonymous with sewing.

The Singer 7258 is their best selling machine on Amazon – a reasonably priced beginner machine with 100 built-in stitches and other convenience features.

The Singer 7258 is an entry level machine that costs about $178, but Singer also has models in the $1,000 range like the Singer SE300.

Singer 7258Singer SE300 BeginnerAdvanced

With that being said, it is similar to Brother because it has a wide range of models which can satisfy beginners and experts.

Singer and Brother have similar strategies but Singer gets to play on their history which gives them somewhat of an advantage.

Is One Better Than the Other?

I think the Brother vs. Singer debate is kind of like Coke vs. Pepsi or apples vs. oranges. Some like one and some like the other.

Both make a lot of machines targeting beginners and hope you’ll move up to a more advanced model of their brand as you gain experience.

I have a brother sewing machine that I do most of my sewing on and I also own a Brother Serger and I love them both. But I am positive that if I owned the Singer model that is similar in features, I would not be disappointed.

What is most important is to find out what it is you are looking for in a sewing machine and then narrow it down from there.

Don’t focus on a particular brand if you are a novice because there are so many awesome machines out there that will suit you.

Narrow down the features that you really want – computerized vs mechanical or do you need a heavy duty machine for sewing thick fabrics like denim or upholstery? Or maybe you are on a tight budget and need a simple machine that costs under $100. You could also buy a straight stitch machine and ditch all the fancy bells and whistles.

And of course, there are other brands as well – Janome and Juki are two other brands that have excellent machines for all experience levels.

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/brother-vs-singer-sewing-machines/

#Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons

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sewingmachinesavvy · 7 years

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Serger vs Sewing Machine – What’s the Difference?

If you’re anything like me then somewhere along your sewing journey you come across a serger and asked yourself – what is a serger and do I need one?

I hope to give you a clear comparison of a serger vs. a sewing machine and help you figure out if a serger is something worth investing in.

Serger vs. Sewing Machine – The Key Difference

You are likely familiar with what a basic sewing machine does so let’s focus on what a serger is.

Simply put, a serger can be considered as a specialized sewing machine – sometimes referred to as an overlock sewing machine.

Take a look at the image to the right – what you see are beautiful edges that are neatly finished with a serger.

Without serging the edge, it would look unfinished and unprofessional, and the fabric will fray over time.

Sergers take anywhere from 3 to 8 thread cones at a time, and loop thread around the edge of the fabric, which prevents fraying. The Singer serger to the right has 5 cones.

The most common sergers use 3 to 4 cones of thread. Compare this to a sewing machine where you typically use just one thread or possible 2 if you are using a double needle.

Because of the multiple threads being looped together, a serger makes a more professional and durable seam than a standard sewing machine.

The threads lock around the seam to prevent fraying, and it also has a blade that cuts off the seam allowance as it sews (the blade can also be turned off if you like).

One of the great features of a serger is how fast they are – it trims away seam allowances and encases raw edges – all at up to speeds of 1700 stitches per minute!

Similar Features of the Two

The interesting thing is that a serger can actually do a lot of things that sewing machines can do. Some examples are:

It can gather fabric

It can neatly do piping

It can do a narrow rolled hem

It can even hem knits

This video does a great job visualizing some of the similar features of a serger and sewing machine (and its kinda funny too).

youtube

What a Serger Cannot Do

A serger has its strengths and can speedily create durable and professionally finished edges, but it is not a stand-alone machine so it isn’t able to replace a standard sewing machine for most projects.

You will still need your trusty sewing machine to do buttonholes, zippers, facings, and topstitching.

Do I Really Need Both?

In short, you do not need a sewing machine and a serger. But here’s the thing – you can get away with many projects using only a sewing machine without a serger. So a good quality basic sewing machine is a must, and a serger is something you will add as you gain experience and see a need for its features.

Some things to keep in mind if you are thinking about purchasing a serger:

If you are a beginner seamstress then get to know your sewing machine and learn the basics. Over time you may want to add a quality serger to your lineup.

If you work with a lot of knits then a serger will make your projects a lot faster and easier.

If you will be sellling clothing or other projects, then a serger will be important to have for finished edges and a more professional look

Keep in mind that there are “overlock” foot attachments for standard sewing machines, and many are content with the quality of finished edges it can make. But others point out that an overlock attachment simply cannot make as durable of a stitch as a serger with multiple looping threads.

A Final Note

I purchased a Brother 1034D a few months after I learned how to sew because I wanted more professional looking finishes. There is a learning curve – especially trying to figure out how to set it up with 4 different threads, but from the start I absolutely loved what it is capable of doing. I have it out on my sewing table and use it with ease.

What I heard is that once you try out a serger you won’t want to do without it. Well I can say that was definitely true in my case – the speed, power, and beautifully finished edges are something I can’t do without now that I have one.

If you aren’t sure about spending $200 or more on a serger then I would recommend going into a local sewing shop and using one to see what you think.

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/serger-vs-sewing-machine/

#Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons

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sewingmachinesavvy · 7 years

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What is a Straight Stitch Sewing Machine

With all of the fancy modern computerized sewing machines on the market these days, an advanced or beginner seamstress can have at their hands on a machine that has options to do dozens if not hundreds of types of stitches, embroidery, letters, numbers, etc.

Before we had the option to do all of these different stitches there was the simplicity of a straight stitch only machine. And although this may seem less appealing than a machine with all the “bells and whistles”, many advanced seamstresses choose a straight stitch machine and are able to sew just about any project with it.

What is a Straight Stitch Sewing Machine?

A straight stitch is the most basic stitch that a seamstress will use when sewing. It is formed by the interlocking thread and bobbin thread. Although it is a basic stitch, the length, tension, and other features of the stitch can vary.

A straight stitch only sewing machine can do one stitch only – straight! Simple enough. That means you can stitch forward straight as well as in reverse to anchor a stitch. But it is important to understand that a straight stitch machine still has a lot of versatility. It can be used to do many other things besides sewing a seam together –

Why Buy a Straight Stitch Only Machine

Did you know that most sewing is about 85-90% straight stitching? This is why a lot of sewers who are mostly into clothing construction and quilting swear by the accuracy and precision that a straight stitch only machine can give.

Just think about it, before we had all of the fancy machines everyone used a straight stitch only sewing machine, and were able to sew just about anything with it. And to top that off, a lot of those vintage machines are still around today.

Top Straight Stitch Only Machines

Brother PQ1500SLSinger S16Juki DDL-8700 Current Price

Max Sewing Speed1500 stitches / minute1600 stitches / min5500 stitches / min Max Stitch Length5 mm Automatic Needle Threader?YesYesNo Knee Lifter?YesYesNo Variable Speed ControlNoYesNo Warranty25 Year Limited25 Year Limited5 Year Weight30 lbs31.5 lbs20 lbs

Brother PQ1500SL

The Brother PQ1500SL is a ultimate machine for tackling problem fabrics, and is amazing for

Brother PQ1500SL High Speed Quilting and Sewing Machine

Price: $655.00

Price Disclaimer

larger scale jobs.

A high-speed straight stitching machine, sewing up to 1,500 stitches per minute!

The PQ1500SL features an adjustable pin feed mechanism, 4 feed dog settings for maximum fabric control, knee lifter & bed extension table for quilting, full range foot pressure adjustment and an Automatic thread cutter with F.A.S.T. needle threader – a time saving convenience. Includes straight stitch sewing foot, rolled hem foot, adjustable zipper foot, invisible zipper foot, quarter inch foot, spring action quilting foot, seam guide, walking foot, power cord, foot control, sewing notions, owner’s manual.

Singer S16 Studio Industrial-Grade True Straight Stitch Only Sewing and Quilting Machine

The name of this sewing machine says it all – straight stitch, industrial-grade, and quilting.

Singer S16 Studio Industrial-Grade True Straight Stitch Only Sewing and Quilting Machine

List Price: $2,000.00

Price: $605.43

You Save: $1,394.57

Price Disclaimer

Singer touts this machine as having the power of an industrial machine for a fraction of the cost. It can sew up to 1600 stitches per minute. It also has conventent features such as: Easy Threading, Automatic Needle Threader & Presser Foot Sensor as well as a Programmable Needle Up/Down and Knee Lifter, which are helpful for piecing quilt tops.

The Singer S16 also features a variable speed control so you can set the stitches between 100 and 1600 stitches per minute.

Users of the S16 love the speed and also mention how heavy and durable it is – perfect for heavy duty jobs. Users also raved about how easy it was to setup and use right out of the box.

Juki DDL-8700 Industrial Straight Stitch Sewing Machine

This powerhouse can sew up to 5500 stitches per minute – that is incredible!

Juki DDL-8700 Industrial Straight Stitch Sewing Machine, Servo Motor

Price: $929.71

Price Disclaimer

This is a true industrial machines so it is permanently installed in a table top and it is not portable like the two machines above.

With engineering for reduced vibration and noise, the Juki DDL-8700 is optimized for comfortable operation. With the addition of a servo sewing motor, this unit is almost completely silent so it is perfect for home use, but it is a popular choice for businesses and schools as well.

Straight Stitch Sewing Machine Bottom Line

Straight stitch only sewing machines have been around since sewing machines were invented. It is the most basic stitch that is used 99% of the time in sewing projects. Because of this, a straight stitch machine is an excellent choice if you want a workhorse to do most of your sewing on. Just keep in mind that you will not get all the bells and whistles that other machines have.

For newbie sewers, the electronic machines are often a good place to start and once you have some experience, a straight stitch only machine may be something you decide to purchase for the majority of your projects.

from Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons http://www.sewingmachinesavvy.com/straight-stitch-sewing-machine/

#Sewing Machine Savvy – Best Reviews and Comparisons

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