Your good, old faithful sewing machine (handed down from your great grandmother) has decided to finally call it quits during the December holidays and you need to purchase a new sewing machine. So, exactly what do you need to look for in a new sewing machine? And, how do you know if it will be the perfect fit for you?

We’ve listed six important factors for you to consider before purchasing a new sewing machine:

Mechanical or Electronic?

Here is a view of the pros and cons of Mechanical and electronic sewing machines:

• With a mechanical sewing machine, you’ll need to turn the dials manually to achieve the stitching you want, whereas, with an electronic sewing machine, it will make the adjustments for you. 
• An electronic sewing machine will allow you to work with several layers of material – not just two layers as with a mechanical sewing machine. 
• Electronic sewing machines are also much easier to operate if you intend on working with heavy materials such as leather, denim or canvas. 
• However, electronic sewing machines are more expensive than mechanical sewing machines. 

Your Budget 

With a figure in mind of how much you’d like to spend on a new sewing machine, the endless options may leave you feeling overwhelmed and weighing the various pros and cons of each product. For instance, a high-quality mechanical sewing machine, such as our Empisal Creations Sewing Machine can come in at just under R2 000-00.

When buying a sewing machine, you need to choose the right product for your exact needs. If your hobbies include sewing, you don’t want to ‘over buy’. If, however, you use your sewing machine mostly for running a sewing business, we would recommend that you look at a higher-priced, professional sewing machine that can withstand continual use. A good option in such an instance would be our Empisal Electronic EES10 Sewing Machine at a price of just over R3 000-00.

The Weight and Size of the Sewing Machine 

Will your sewing machine accompany you to each craft market you are exhibiting at? Or, will it remain neatly tucked away in your sewing corner at home? These are two very important questions to consider when reviewing the various sizes and weights of sewing machines. 

If you plan to travel with your sewing machine, consider purchasing a small portable machine instead – try lifting the machine before purchasing it. If you plan to only use your sewing machine at home, then a heavier sewing machine may be more suitable as these are mostly made of metal instead of plastic. 

The Extra Features 

Essentially, you want a sewing machine that will meet all your requirements. Some sewing machines offer features that can be installed or added later, should you need to use them. Although the extras are a ‘nice to have’, you don’t want to overwhelm yourself by buying a machine that can be complicated. 

Service and Warranty 

Before making the final purchase decision, be sure to ask the sales assistant about the warranty as well as what it covers. For instance, will you be able to get your sewing machine serviced through the retailer you purchased it from, or will you need to send it away elsewhere? 

Research, Research, Research! 

You need to do your own research about choosing the ideal sewing machine which will be the perfect fit for you. Quality is always more important than the added features. 

For advice on which sewing machine will best suit your needs, contact us today for more information.