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Speedy stitches - sewing machine round-up
Step up your sewing by investing in a machine that'll save you time, energy and, ultimately, cash. Our handy guide is designed to help you pick the right one
Buying your first sewing machine can be a daunting task, as can upgrading from your old favourite. After last year's credit crunch the sale of sewing machines rocketed and more models were launched to keep up with demand, making the choice even more difficult. Before you buy, it's important to think about how often you're going to use your machine, and whether you want a basic model to get to grips with instantly, or if you have time to invest in more complex piece of equipment.
Also consider what type of fabrics you want to stitch on, and if you're going have a designated table for it in your house, or whether you're going to have to pack it away after each session, therefore needing something lightweight. Read through our guide, which gives you some of the best models on the market available for different budgets, then decide how much cash you want to splash. When your new purchase arrives, you'll wonder why you waited so long!
John Lewis, Mini Pastel Sewing Machine, £49
Simple and very easy to use, this good looking little machine has all the basic functions, making it perfect for a newbie who want to get started right away. With two needle positions, drop-in bobbin, and free arm for adjusting cuffs and trousers, it can tackle basic tasks on lightweight fabrics with ease. It also has a double presser foot, push lever reverse and comes in three different colours.
Stitches - 10
Buy it... if you want a cheap machine for make do and mend
Visit www.johnlewis.com or call 08456 049049.
Elna, Sew Fun 1000, £99
The two handy dials on this lightweight machine make selecting and changing stitches quick and easy. It's great for a beginner, but also someone who likes to get simple projects done fast. With its large view stitch display, automatic needle threader and contemporary design, it's an approachable machine that you'll want to come back to again and again, and perfect if you don't want to make a huge investment until you're definitely sure you're going to tackle more complex projects in the future.
Stitches - 13
Buy it... if you want an easy-to-use machine for occasional projects
Visit www.elna.com to find your nearest stockist.
Toyota 15JSPB, £134.59 (from Argos)
Don't be fooled by this lightweight machine with its minimalist design - it's a solid unit that's great for handling heavier materials like denim, and comes with a three year guarantee. At just over the £100 mark, it has a few features that will keep you experimenting for a while, but not too many to be a waste for those who want to create basic fashion.
Stitches - 15
Buy it...if you're an ambitious beginner
To order, visit www.Argos.co.uk or for more information www.sewtoyota.com
Brother, Innov-is 10A, £215
To celebrate 50 years in Europe, Brother has launched this computerised sewing machine. Unlike other electric machines, this one is controlled by computer chips with correct tension, length and width of each stitch programmed in by the manufacturer. It's designed to be easy to use, with a jog dial and a built-in needle threader, but doesn't compromise on features, with three different buttonhole styles.
Stitches - 16
Buy it... if you want to stay ahead of the game
Visit www.brother.co.uk or call 08444 999444.
Janome, Sewist 525S, £229
Championed by Which as the best buy for around £200, this popular electric machine is excellent at handling different fabrics and makes a perfect purchase for those who want a sturdy machine to last for years. Among its special features is a one-step buttonhole and a jam-proof bobbin system, as well as a two-speed foot controller.
Stitches - 25
Buy it... if you're a perfectionist
Visit www.janome.co.uk or call 0161 6666011.
Elna, 5100, £349
Be creative with this adaptable, computerised machine. Not only will it stitch through denim, and a huge range of other dressmaking fabrics, but it has decorative stitches for quilting and patchwork, so you can be free to create exciting home accessories too. You can easily choose the width and length of the stitches with the automatic buttons and have fun experimenting for years to come.
Stitches - 30
Buy it... if you want everything at the touch of a button
Visit www.elna.com or call 0161 666 6011
Sew technical!
When buying, compare the list of features that come with machines. You'll find some of the following technical terms, which we've cleared up here for you:
Bobbin - A small spool that holds thread which is fed up through the needle plate.
Feed dog - The mechanism in the metal needle plate that automatically feeds the material under the needle.
Drop feed dog - Some machines have this function, meaning you can move the fabric around manually.
Free arm - A cylinder device in the base of the machine to help you sew around cuffs and hems of trousers.
Knee lifter - A lever that can be manouvered by your knee to lift up the presser foot and drop the feed dogs, enabling you to keep your hands on the material and it freely.
Needle plate - A piece of metal in the bed of the sewing machine, which the needle passes through.
Presser foot - This holds the fabric in place by pressing it down onto the feed dogs. You can buy different ones for specialised jobs. Look out for the clip-on variety, which are easy to attach
Overlocker - A machine, or an application on a sewing machine, that sews over the edge of fabric to strengthen it and prevent it from fraying.
Sewing bed - The base of the machine, that often houses the free arm.
