my grandma's machine has NO BOOK, and with no directions I'm clueless...

<font color=purple>~Darlene~
Mama to Matthew {3*20*94}, Bethany {8*26*96}, Kayleigh {12*2*97},and Emalee Dawn {2*19*01}, my cloth diapered, sling riding, family bedded nursling :O)
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Darlene,

I don't know anything about old machines.

But as for beginner machines, I do know about that, being a recently-graduated beginner. :-) I think that low end machines from the super great companies is the best way to go. Not a lot of frills to confuse you (and cost you!), but all the durability and quality craftsmanship you'd expect from the brandname, though some of the companies have different factories make their low end and high end machines. I think it's really good to check where the machine is made. I've heard that made in Japan or Europe is pretty good. I've heard that made in Taiwan is really good too. But beware of those made in other Asian countries as quality control may be an issue! And I haven't heard anything about stuff made in the US. Do we still make sewing machines?!?

Shop around. Go to different dealers in your area. Tell them you're a beginner looking for a durable, quality machine that doesn't cost an arm and a leg. They'll all give you an earful! Test drive machines. You'll be surprised how easily you fall in love with some machines and how you can detest others. And go with your gut! It's great to find the cheapest machine (and sometimes you can get expensive machines cheap online), but even if it costs more, that's okay too. The more you like your machine, the more you'll sew and enjoy sewing. It's been over a year since I started sewing, and it's been at least 6 months since we've bought any clothing! I've even sewn our curtains, cushions, bags, everything! It's great fun, and definitely worth your investment of time and money!!


Pei
spouse to my best advocate
mom to Megan, my every joy
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