National Sewing Month: A Getting-Started Resource Guide

I am a so-so seamstress.

That means my skills are pretty elementary and I struggle to find time to do much sewing.

But I love and enjoy it!

I had a mother-in-law who sewed wedding dresses for people. She had real talent and was an artist.

I can sew a few lines, have made a few quilts and sew some for art journaling. Nothing fancy, put completely enjoyable!

With the cooler months coming, is it time for you to think about taking up this enjoyable hobby?

Today, a good sewing machine can be had for a relatively low price.

Here are some options to get you started:

 

Brother CS6000i Sew Advance Sew Affordable 60-Stitch Computerized Free-Arm Sewing Machine

Sewing machines have grown from basic machines in the 1800s to ones today that feature computerized parts that can help make your creations better and faster. The Brother CS6000i Sew Advance Sew Affordable 60-Stitch Computerized Free-Arm Sewing Machine provides a fine example of how far machines have come since its early beginning.

Though the machine comes packed with a smorgasbord of features, the construction of the machine makes it lightweight. The perks that come with the Brother CS6000i will be a great start for a beginner and will thrill a more advanced sewer.

The decorative and quilting stitches are just a few of the stitches you’ll find in the array of 60 stitches installed in it that the sewing machine offers to users. Since it has a handy LCD screen right on the front of the machine, it’s easy to choose the stitch setting that you want to work with.

You’ll know at a glance how long and wide the stitches are and if you need to change the stitches, you simply use the keypad. When you change the stitch, the machine will even let you know which foot goes best with the stitch that you’re using.

The foot pedal controls the movement of the machine but it also comes with a button you can use to start or stop the machine. You can easily use the reverse stitching option with the simple to press button.

One feature that gives this machine its great reviews too is that it has auto-sizing buttonholes and users can select from a choice of one of seven different types of buttonholes.

A dial adjustment for the thread tension takes all the guesswork out of the setting the tension correctly. Whatever work you’re doing using the Brother CS6000i, your project threads won’t be hard to see because the machine has a dual LCD light.

If you’ve sewn before then you know how difficult it can be to get small items onto the machine to work with. For example, trying to get a sleeve placement just right requires that you have a machine that gives you the option of a free arm.

That allows users to remove this piece so that the sleeve fits snugly. Any kind of smaller pieces are easier to work with when you have a free arm style machine. But larger pieces like if you wanted to make someone a baby quilt or if you wanted to make a set of curtains, you can use the machine’s extension table.

You get more than the usual sewing feet when you buy this Brother model. You get an extra foot package that you can use for making quilts. The machine includes a protective cover that is solid and plenty of accessories. In the accessory package, you’ll  get another spool pin, plenty of bobbins, extra needles and even some tools like a screwdriver and a cleaning brush for the machine.

Michley LSS-505 Lil’ Sew & Sew Multi-Purpose Sewing Machine with Built-In Stitches

When you need a basic sewing machine and you don’t do any embroidery work, you certainly don’t want to pay extra to have a lot of features that you’ll never use. When you want a handy and durable sewing machine without feeling like you’ve blown a month’s budget, the Michley LSS-505 Lil’ Sew and Sew Sewing Machine that has a built in stitching feature is the one for you.

The Michley can be used for a variety of different projects. It’s just right for making any kind of clothes that you’d like to make and it’s handy to use when you want to mend a torn spot in a garment.

But it can also be used to make some really pretty home furnishings, too. You can make pillows for a sofa or to add a splash of color to a bed. You can make curtains or crafts and a lot more.

The machine comes with 8 built in stitch patterns which gives sewers a variety to choose from when working on a project. This is a double thread machine that it quick and easy to thread.

When sewing, it has double speed option and it will sew the perfect line of stitches whether youíre sewing in forward or reverse. When you want to choose a stitch, you won’t have to choose from a whole lot of stitches.

Everything is simplified for a more optimal project working time. On the right side front of the machine, the stitches are labeled right on the easy to choose buttons. You’ll also be able to adjust the thread tension with the quick move button.

With the Michley LSS-505, you’ll have the ability to sew sleeves and work with other projects that require a smaller area on a machine. One of the features with this machine that helps to save sewers time is the automatic thread rewind. Sewing in any kind of light isn’t an issue when you own this model because the bright LED light allows you to see the line of stitches.

When you purchase the machine, you’ll receive two thread spools, some extra bobbins that you can keep loaded with thread for easy starts and an extra needle. But you’ll  also get the threader and the foot pedal. An AC adapter is included.

If you’re someone who gives sewing lessons and needs a machine that is portable, this is the perfect machine to choose. And if you have kids that would like to learn how to sew clothes or make crafts, this machine is the best option to buy for an extremely affordable price.

 

SINGER 160 Anniversary Limited Edition Computerized Sewing Machine

In the design style that first led sewers to fall in love with Singer machines, the SINGER 160 Anniversary Limited Edition Computerized Sewing Machine is presented. The shape and color of the machine is a work of art and will make you recall a time when life was a lot different.

But just because it looks like an old fashioned machine doesn’t mean that this one isn’t a state of the art machine. The machine has a pretty big selection of stitches among the 24 built in ones that are offered and choosing the one that ís wanted is easy for sewers to do.

The stitches can be selected just by pushing on the button featuring the stitch wanted. The stitches are broken down by essential stitches, which always include the basics. Then stretch stitches and decorative stitches are also part of the stitch selection.

The Singer 160 features a SwiftSmart Threading System that ís used to make difficult threading a thing of the past. Users guide the thread and a lever does the rest of the work. When it comes to loading the bobbin, all sewers need to do is drop it right into the compartment and get ready to sew.

A feature that has the sewing world buzzing over this machine is the sensor on the presser foot. This feature makes sure that the presser foot is correct before starting the project. Sewers will be alerted by the buzzer if something is wrong.

Sewers that like to do embroidery projects will be delighted to learn that this machine can also be used to do embroidery thanks to the drop feed. This will also enable users to monogram projects if they would liked to do that.

There ís an automatic LED light on the machine that lets sewers see what the stitch setting is on and the machine has the ability to let users know when the setting is moved from the previous setting.

Even though the machine is in the design of the older machines, it has plenty of room for sewing whatever it is you’d like to work on because the machine has a space are that ís greater than 14 inches.

You’ll receive plenty of extra goodies when you get this machine. Among the accessories you’ll get are a blind hem foot, a satin stitch foot, a zipper foot and a general foot. You’ll get the buttonhole foot with under plate for sewing multiple buttonholes and you’ll also get needles, bobbins, a spool pin and more. The machine is backed by a long 25 year warranty.

 

 

SINGER 4411 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine

The SINGER 4411 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine is one of the toughest machines on the market. With the strong metal frame, the machine is built tough on the outside but that strength is carried over into the interior features of the machine, too.

The motor of the Singer was made to be 60% tougher than other machines, which means it won’t let you down no matter what you’re working on. It has an extremely high speed for putting down stitches.

The Singer 4411 can deliver a stunning 1,100 stitches every second of your project time. Every part of this machine will stand up to any sewing job. The bed plate is constructed of solid stainless steel so it can take on the toughest material made and move it along with ease.

Features are packed throughout the machine. It offers an automatic buttonhole feature which lets sewers make perfectly aligned buttonholes each time. The bobbin is a top-loading drop in style which sewers love.

With the clear bobbin covering, you’ll be able to keep an eye on how much thread you have left and catch it before it runs out. Topstitching is an option for sewers with the use of the drop feed.

On some of the stitches that are available, you can have the option to choose 5mm stitches. Users get 11 stitch choices that can be used for home decor or making clothes. The decorative stitches can add a nice finish to any craft.

Sewing areas of clothes like tight hems that are normally a problem won’t be with the free arm. Don’t you hate it when you sew something and the stitches start coming out? The automatic reverse is the feature that will make sure your stitches stay strong and won’t come unraveled.

The presser foot is an easy change since it snaps on and off and the pressure foot pressure can be changed to suit the fabric type. There ís also an extra high pressure foot so that if you’re going to be working with material that ís thicker than what would easily go through a normal presser foot, it won’t be a problem.

The features include different needle positions so that you can suit them to any project needs. The machine can be mounted to a fixed platform if you desire. The accessories with the machine are a zipper foot, one for making buttons and a general foot.

You’ll receive more needles and spool pins, bobbins and a cover to keep the machine clean. If you’d like to make quilts, you’ll appreciate the guide that will show you the basics. Tools include a lint brush, screwdriver and a seam ripper.

 

 

SINGER 4423 Heavy Duty Model Sewing Machine

When you want a tough as nails sewing machine that can tackle any project without moving all over the place on the table or shaking from the strain of use, you want to choose a heavy duty model.

Machines that are stronger than ordinary machines are the kinds that professionals choose. The SINGER 4423 Heavy Duty Model Sewing Machine is a heavy duty version with a lot of appeal for beginners or experienced sewers.

The Singer 4423 has an incredible amount of power packed into the long lasting motor. The power that this machine has is what gives it the strength to whip through 1,100 stitches every single minute.

That means that tough to sew projects are like a walk in the park when you own this machine. The motor of the Singer gives users more options with sewing than other machines.

This one can handle even tough fabrics like denim or multiple layers of fabric. No matter what the material is, it won’t slow the machine down. Because it has the capacity to move so many stitches in a minute, projects take a lot less time to get from start to finish.

With the power it has, you might be tempted to think the machine would be complicated and hard to get used to but it’s not at all! Users will have choice of 23 stitches to choose from for sewing everything from clothes to pretty tablecloths or decorative pillows.

The machine will even let you know the best time to use the stitches and guide you into how to use them. Another plus for this machine is the presser foot. It’s a higher than a regular presser foot which is how it can work through denim or thick layers of material without bogging down.

The automatic pressure foot has a pressure control, which regulates the pressure. It will adjust to the type of fabric you’re sewing on. One of the biggest time wasters when it comes to sewing is the actual threading of the needle. But with the Singer’s automatic needle threader, guessing where to get the thread in is over.

Other features of this machine are the adjustable tension and the automatic bobbin winder. One of the features that users really like with this model is that the area to check on the bobbin is clear so you’ll know when you get close on the bobbin thread and can change it out before it empties.

A definite plus is that no assembly is required so it’s ready to transport or to mount on a solid base. You’ll receive extras too. You’ll get needles, bobbins, an L-screwdriver, a zipper and button hole foot and a quilting guide. Also an auxiliary spool pin, an all purpose foot and spool caps come with the machine.

 

 

SINGER 7258 Stylist Computerized Sewing Machine

The Singer brand of sewing machines has long been known for their durability and innovative features. The SINGER 7258 Stylist Computerized Sewing Machine is one in the line of Singer machines that has a reputation for longevity as well as having plenty of features to make sewing a pleasure.

The machine puts 100 built-in stitches at your disposal. You’ll have core stitches, decorative stitches and stretch stitches to use. The huge selection of stitches is exactly what is needed for sewing clothes or decorative items for your home.

You can also use the choice of stitches to make a beautiful quilt, even if you’ve never sewn one before. It’s easy with the Singer 7258 model. Picking out the style of stitches you want to use is accomplished by pushing the setting button. The machine will automatically give you the correct length and width.

The bobbin pops in or out for fast starts on any sewing project and when you do get started, the machine can put out an impressive 750 stitches per every minute of use. Even though it has plenty of power, the machine is still quiet when running.

Creating buttonholes has never been simpler thanks to the machine is on-target built in buttonholer. When you want to sew a buttonhole, you press a button and the machine will sew a perfectly symmetrical buttonhole. You can choose from six different styles.

Getting started is a piece of cake with the Singer 7258. Once users thread the machine, there’s a needle threader that will put the thread through the needle eye so no more squinting trying to find that tiny opening!

This feature alone will save you a lot of time. With the touch of button you can program the needle for quick applique or for use when you want to make a quilt. You won’t lack for choice with needle positions because you get a total of 13 different ones and the machine also has twin needle capacity.

With the LED light, it’s easy to see whatever project you’re working on and since the machine is a free arm, you get a lot of maneuverability. The amount of presser feet you get only add to the creativity that you’ll have with this machine. You’ll get 10 different presser feet to choose from.

You also get a large accessory packet. Included in that packet is a variety of spool caps-3 in all. A satin foot along with the general purpose one, a buttonhole foot and a zipper foot are included as well.

There ís also a blind hem foot. A seam ripper and a screwdriver are handy tools added in with the package and bobbins, needles and spool pin discs have been added to the package. You’ll receive a lint brush, a lengthy cord and an instruction manual, too.

 

Singer 9960

An amazing selection is what awaits users who purchase the SINGER 9960 Quantum Stylist 600-Stitch Computerized Sewing Machine. This machine has an incredible 600 stitch patterns that come with the machine, which will give you something for every project you can imagine.

But that is only the tip of the iceberg for the features offered by the Singer 9960. Five alphanumeric fonts are included and it has more buttonhole options than many other machines.

With 13 one step buttonholes, creating the buttonhole you want is quick and easy. With this feature, buttonholes are created in a way that keeps the fabric from bunching up so you get perfect buttonholes every time.

One of the top features that this machine has that many don’t is a buttonhole under plate. That is a tool that will make buttonholes through more than one layer of fabric. Another super handy feature is the automatic thread cutter.

This thread cutter cuts both top and bottom thread at the same time, so no straggles are left behind. When you stack up the features this machine has, it comes out way ahead of other machines.

To guide you into finding the right stitch to us, the machine gives users a stitch reference chart located right on the front of the machine. This way, you can stop the guesswork with stitching and concentrate on the project instead.

The machine has the ability to put out 850 stitches per minute which is pretty darned fast but when you’re working with something like a silky fabric, you want a slower speed and the machine offers that too with its slow sewing speed feature.

The needle threader makes it a breeze to get started every time you want to use the machine. The machine has an attachable extension table and this piece is removable for when you arenít working on the larger projects. But if you’re going to be sewing a blanket, then this piece is a handy piece to use.

The computerized Digital Information Advisor is one of the biggest helps for beginners or advanced sewers. What this handy tool can do for users is to let them know which presser foot should be used with the project.

But it also lets sewers know the best stitches to use for the project. It will even give the best stitch pattern. Users can set the program on the machine so that the needle comes to rest in either an up or down position, which makes it easier to turn the material you’re working with.

This machine has so many features that are great for sewers. It has the horizontal threading, which means you spend more time sewing less time having to rethread the machine.

You’ll get 25 needle positions and it has twin needle capability. One of the major pluses too with this machine is that it offers an error warning alert. When a mistake is made, the machine will let you know.

 

 

Learn to Sew

Don’t know how to sew? Or want to improve your skills? You’ll find a nice variety of classes here!

 

 

Teach Yourself

Can you learn well from a book? These might be right up your alley.

Sewing Storage

With sewing comes stuff! Lovely fabric is only a part of the picture. You’ll need good scissors, needles, threaders, pins, and more. And, of course, you’ll need a place to keep it all organized. Here are some ideas.