Jayell9
Member since 2011
Posts: 7 |
Login to reply to this post
Date: 12/18/11 3:31 AM Since I am going to be sewing nothing but garments, I am sure that I would just need a hand full of practical stitches, button holes, and a decent amount of overall features.
Specifically speaking, what machines would make a good choice? I have been highly considering the Bernina Activa 210. I have also been considering the Bernina 1008 despite it being a little over my budget. However, I am looking for a reliable machine that I can carry off to college, so I am willing to spend the extra bucks if it is worth it.
My Relative budget tops around $500.
-What are some other crucial features in a machine for making garments?
-Would a mechanical machine be a good choice? (I know that most fashion schools have mechanical sewing machines for the students to use anyways.)
I have a preference for Bernina solely because I hear they are a high quality brand and have impressive stitch quality, but I am absolutely open to all brands.
I very much look forward to your responses.
:)
|
moushka
 
Advanced Beginner
ON CANADA
Member since 2002
Posts: 619 |
Login to reply to this post
Date: 12/18/11 6:21 AM If you can find a Bernina @$500, grab it! They are definitely the best domestic sewing machines made, especially the older, mechanical models. I've never seen one available, even secondhand, for under $800 but I'm in Canada where prices are generally higher.
Take a look at the reviews for the Juki sewing machines. Juki makes parts for some of the Bernina sergers and has good reputation as manufacturers of industrial machines. The HZL 600 series may be out of your price range but that doesn't mean there isn't another Juki that would fit your needs at a better price point. Good luck with your search.
|
svetlana
Intermediate
IL USA
Member since 2006
Posts: 349 |
Login to reply to this post
Date: 12/18/11 10:41 AM I do 90% garment sewing: costumes, renaissance, and prom dresses as a part-time business I have become a total Juki fan. I find them reliable and good stitch quality. There is a nice basic computer HZL E70 for $499 on Allbrands.com which includes en extension table. That table really is a godsend working on long skirts or big volume pieces. It also has a variety of automatic buttonholes. There is also a nice mechanical for $269. that has one automatic buttonhole. They have a New Home (Janome) mechanical which looks identical to my partner's which has been a work horse. However, that one is on backorder. I don't have any interest in Juki, Janome or allbrands. ------
Svetlana |
Canadian Jane
Advanced Beginner
AB CANADA
Member since 2010
Posts: 584 |
Login to reply to this post
Date: 12/18/11 11:39 AM If I was doing strictly garments and harp size was not an issue - but precision sewing is - then I would head for a Bernina too.
But ....having said that, if you can get your hands on an older Pfaff in good working order with an IDT you might really appreciate having the IDT for working with checks, plaids, velvets, fabrics that slip and slide and so forth and/or sewing fabrics together really don't want to be sewn together!! (Leather/pleather and lace anyone??) The newer Pfaffs - Ambition, Smarter - might be good choices too but they may be over what you can afford. You will also appreciate how much cheaper specialty feet and accessories are for Pfaff's vs Bernina's.
I haven't tested out the Juki but it sure seems like it deserves to be on your list too.
You did not mention this, but I would also go for a narrow mm machine (that is the opening where the needle goes in to grab the bobbin thread). The 7-9mm machines on the market today make lovely deco stitches but you might find you have better control and precision with a 4mm -6mm machine.
Good luck - I hope you do well and, more importantly, LOVE your course.  |
sewingsilly
Expert/Couture
FL USA
Member since 2010
Posts: 330 |
Login to reply to this post
In reply to Jayell9
Date: 12/19/11 7:46 AM Hi Jayell!!
Congratulations on going to school for Fashion Design!! When I decided to study fashion I owned a middle of the road machine and serger. Not super fancy and not super basic. I then got an old Singer factory industrial that only did straight stitching. I don't think it really matters what kind of machine you purchase as long as it's reliable and a machine you can "bond" with. It tends to be frustrating working on a difficult machine with non stop threading, tension and warning light issues. For this reason, I would choose to go the mechanical or electronic route. They tend to be less picky than the super computerized ones.
Good luck in school and enjoy what ever machine you get. |
Soolip
Advanced
CA USA
Member since 2008
Posts: 1658 |
Login to reply to this post
Date: 12/19/11 11:31 AM Bernina makes good-quality machines, but I've yet to find a model that has the right combination of features for garment sewing. They make very good domestic machines which are primarily for quilting and crafting. The garment industry runs on Juki and Consew, so I'd get a machine that has at least six styles of buttonholes. You should be able to adjust the width of the buttonholes, and if available in your price point, the cutting space as well. You should also be able to adjust the pressure of the presser foot and have a decent selection of utility stitches. |
andye
Beginner
VA USA
Member since 2009
Posts: 928 |
Login to reply to this post
Date: 12/19/11 12:21 PM Does your school recommend any sewing machines? I assume that this is intended to supplement, not replace the school's industrial machines |
kkkkaty
Intermediate
UT USA
Member since 2005
Posts: 1903
|
Login to reply to this post
In reply to Jayell9
Date: 12/19/11 12:33 PM Maybe the thing to do is talk to some students who are already in the program, and see what they recommend (or don't recommend). I have the Activa 210, and it's a nice little machine, seems very practical for what you are considering. ------
Viking Lily 545
Viking Scandinavia 400
Bernina Activa 210
Brother 1034d
|
MegquiltsinVT
Intermediate
VT USA
Member since 2009
Posts: 59 |
Login to reply to this post
Date: 12/19/11 12:36 PM I second Canadian Jane's vote for a good, formerly used Pfaff. I have a Pfaff 1222E, which I've been told is prized by seamstresses for its fine stitch. I don't think you could go wrong with one of those! Good luck!!! |
NM gal
Beginner
Member since 2009
Posts: 881 |
Login to reply to this post
Date: 12/19/11 1:02 PM Lots of good machines around. I have & love Juki F600 but there's a new G Series that'll be in the USA early 2012.
It has a powerful motor, same feeding system as the F600, beautiful buttonholes & thread trimmer. Supposed to be cheaper than the F600. Allbrands said they're getting them in. |
|Login|Help]
Printable Version
