Ever wanted to buy a sewing machine but don’t know where to look? Master Quilter and VP of Customer Success at Linda’s Electric Quilters Corey Pearson has some tips on what to look for when purchasing a sewing machine.
Look for a machine that you can grow into. Check out your local sewing machine dealers to get a hands-on demo of sewing machine capabilities.
Choose the machine that has the right capabilities for your needs.
Don't be oversold on all of the “fancy” stitches a machine can do.
Make sure to get a machine that can use a walking foot and a ¼” foot
“When you're picking out a sewing machine, think about the kind of projects you'll be working on and choose a machine that will grow with you. It's crucial to visit local dealers to see the machines in action and really understand what they can do,” says Pearson.
With all the options out there, thinking about what you’ll use the most is key.
“There's a huge range of options out there, but focus on what you need. For instance, if you're mainly piecing projects, a basic straight stitch machine might be all you need. I personally invested a bit more in an industrial straight stitch machine because that's what I use most, aside from my longarm. Don’t get too caught up in machines that offer a myriad of fancy stitches—you likely won't use them as much as you think. Also, ensure the machine is compatible with essential attachments like a walking foot and a ¼” foot. These are real game changers for precise sewing.”
I had a chance to learn more in this interview.
How is a longarm different from a traditional sewing machine?
Longarm machines typically feature a throat space of 18 inches or more and are mounted on a track system, allowing them to glide smoothly back and forth across a table. This setup enhances the quilting process, enabling the user to manipulate the machine in a way that is intuitive and similar to drawing or writing, effectively making the longarm machine a large-scale extension of the user's hands.
What makes it more efficient for quilting?
The primary advantage of a longarm quilting machine is its table-based setup, which allows the operator to move only the machine rather than the entire quilt. This significantly reduces the physical effort required and increases the precision of stitching. Additionally, longarm machines are equipped with stitch regulators, ensuring consistent and even stitches—a feature not universally available in traditional sewing machines. The presence of a mounted frame also facilitates easier manipulation of the quilt compared to the constrained space under a regular sewing machine.
How can quilters know if a longarm is worth the investment?
The decision to invest in a longarm machine largely depends on the volume of quilts produced. For individuals who frequently create quilt tops and incur substantial expenses from outsourcing the quilting process, purchasing a longarm machine can be a worthwhile investment. Not only does it offer the possibility to quilt independently, but it also opens opportunities for quilting for others, potentially turning it into a profitable venture.
No comments:
Post a Comment