Originally Posted by
Heyduke
Hey Pholks,
(Tried searching the LCF forum but got nothing.)
Does anyone in the LCF forum sew/repair their own clothing, especially cycling clothing, with an actual sewing machine? I'm looking at buying one since I've been relying heavily on a woman I work with to do my repairs. I will not sleep with her (smile) and so by the time I buy her 6 or 8 lunches a year, I probably could have bought a used sewing machine and gained the knowledge/experience for a lifetime of DIY clothing repair needs. My questions after all that:
1) What features do I look for?
2) I would much rather buy used and am comfortable doing so but what RED FLAGS would I look for if buying used?
3) Price depends on brand, newness, and features I understand but for no-frills sewing/repairs, what can I expect to spend? I'm seeing anywhere from $80 - $100 on CL, but I don't know what I'm looking for. I'd rather hold out for something less expensive but don't want junk either. I've done really well with CL in terms of bikes, parts and accessories but I'm lost when it comes to sewing machines.
Any direction is much appreciated!
Hello Heyduke,
Perhaps I can help you in your quest in finding the right sewing machine for you. I have sewn both personally for myself and others and even in the fashion industry here in Southern California at one time. I have made clothing specifically for cycling/active use (just finished a top for cool weather today, in fact) and bags for the folding bikes (a must have for any folding bike user). I have a example of things I am offering now for the general cycling and noncycling public at my Flickr site at:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/world-of-folding-bicycles/sets/72157601331380862/
And the sewing machines I use now for these projects are the very simple household domestic ones from White (see the
Creative Projects set for a peek at the machine in action). I recommend to buy a new one, rather than a loaded down used one, with only the features of straight, zig-zag, buttonhole, and reverse stitches built in the machine from a major company (Singer, White, Sears Kenmore are some examples). You get a limited warranty and some chance of lasting for years longer. Buy from a dealer that garentees to take it back if it does not work, sewing lessons or demostrations are a plus. Focus on quality rather than price only. And last but not least, do plan to take some lessons on sewing. Even the basics covered are enough to make you that much more independent (and not dependant on someone else's whims).
Let me know what you decide to do.