How to repair a torn belt loop in denim jeans or pants

 

Denim jeans are a classic wardrobe staple that can withstand the test of time. However, one common problem that many people face is a torn belt loop. A torn belt loop can make your jeans look worn out and unkempt, but don't worry - fixing it is easier than you might think. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to fix a torn belt loop in denim jeans:

Materials you'll need:

• Sewing needle
• Thread (preferably a color that matches your jeans)
• Scissors
• Iron (optional)
• Fusible interfacing (optional)

Step 1: Assess the damage

The first step is to assess the damage. Identify where the loop is torn and determine how large the tear is. If it's a small tear, you can simply stitch it back together. If it's a larger tear, you may need to patch it up.

Step 2: Cut a piece of fusible interfacing (if necessary)

If the tear is particularly large or if the loop is completely detached from the jeans, you may need to use a piece of fusible interfacing to reinforce the area. Cut a piece of fusible interfacing that's slightly larger than the torn area. Then, place the interfacing on the inside of the jeans, over the tear.

Step 3: Sew the torn loop back together

Thread your needle and knot the end. Then, begin stitching the torn loop back together. Start by placing the needle under the torn edge of the loop and pull the thread through until the knot catches. Then, stitch along the torn edge of the loop, using a simple running stitch. Make sure your stitches are small and close together for the best results.

Step 4: Reinforce the repaired loop (optional)

To ensure that the repaired loop is extra strong, you can reinforce it with a few more stitches. Stitch back and forth across the repaired area a few times to create a stronger hold.

Step 5: Trim any excess thread

Once you're finished stitching, trim any excess thread with your scissors.

Step 6: Iron (optional)

If you used fusible interfacing to reinforce the area, you can iron over the repaired area to help the interfacing adhere to the jeans.

That's it - your torn belt loop should now be fixed and ready to wear! Remember to handle your jeans with care to prevent future tears, and always repair them as soon as you notice any damage to prevent it from getting worse.

Those Darn Socks! Mending your stockings

 

Darning a sock is a simple and cost-effective way to extend the life of your favorite pair of socks. Whether you're new to sewing or an experienced seamstress, you'll find that darning is a simple process that can be done with just a few basic tools. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you darn your socks and keep them looking great for years to come.

Materials:

• A darning needle
• A matching color of yarn
• A piece of cardboard or a darning egg (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the Sock To start, remove the sock from your foot and lay it flat on a table. If the hole is near the top of the sock, stretch the sock over a piece of cardboard or a darning egg. This will help keep the sock taut and make it easier to work with.

Step 2: Thread the Darning Needle Cut a length of yarn that is long enough to sew across the hole several times. Thread the yarn onto the darning needle and knot the end.

Step 3: Sew Across the Hole Starting on the inside of the sock, push the needle through the fabric so that the knot is hidden inside the sock. Next, sew across the hole several times, making sure to weave the needle in and out of the fabric in a way that covers the hole and secures the yarn in place.

Step 4: Weave the Yarn Once you have sewn across the hole several times, begin to weave the yarn back and forth across the hole. Make sure to weave the yarn tightly and keep it close to the fabric to cover the hole completely.

Step 5: Finish the Darning When you have woven the yarn across the hole several times, cut the yarn, leaving a tail of about 2 inches. Thread the tail of the yarn through the needle and weave it back through the fabric, tying a knot to secure the end.

Step 6: Trim the Excess Yarn Finally, trim any excess yarn, making sure to cut it close to the fabric so that it does not unravel.

And that's it! With just a few simple steps, you've darned your sock and given it new life. Whether you're fixing a hole or just want to add a touch of personality to your favorite pair of socks, darning is a simple and effective way to get the job done. So go ahead, give it a try and see what you can create!

How to fix a string tie that has come out of a pair of sweatpants or pajama bottoms.

 

Sweatpants and pajama bottoms are a staple of lounging comfort, but what happens when the string that ties the waistband comes loose or falls out altogether? Don't worry, fixing a string tie on a pair of sweatpants or pajama bottoms is a simple and easy process that can be done in a matter of minutes. Here's how to do it:

Step 1: Gather Supplies

Before you start, you'll need a few supplies. You'll need a needle, thread that matches the color of your sweatpants or pajama bottoms, and a pair of scissors.

Step 2: Cut a Length of Thread

Cut a length of thread that is about 18 inches long. This will give you enough thread to complete the repair without running out before you're finished.

Step 3: Thread the Needle

Thread the needle with the length of thread that you cut. Make sure the thread is doubled over, so that it is strong enough to hold the weight of the sweatpants or pajama bottoms.

Step 4: Knot the Thread

Tie a knot in the end of the thread, making sure that it is secure so that it won't come undone as you work.

Step 5: Locate the Hole

Locate the hole where the string tie has come out. Make sure that the hole is clean and free of any frayed fabric or threads.

Step 6: Insert the Needle

Insert the needle into the hole, starting from the inside of the waistband and coming out through the front. Make sure that the needle goes through the fabric and comes out the other side.

Step 7: Tie a Knot

Tie a knot in the end of the thread on the front side of the waistband. Make sure that the knot is secure, so that it won't come undone.

Step 8: Trim the Thread

Trim the excess thread close to the knot, making sure that you don't cut the knot itself.

Step 9: Repeat the Process

Repeat the process on the other side of the waistband, so that the string tie is secure on both sides.

In conclusion, fixing a string tie on a pair of sweatpants or pajama bottoms is a simple and easy process that can be done in just a few minutes. With the right supplies and a little bit of patience, you can have your lounging comfort back in no time!

How to fix a broken zipper

A broken zipper can be a frustrating problem, especially when you need to wear the clothing item in question. But with a little bit of know-how and some basic tools, you can fix a broken zipper yourself. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Step 1: Identify the problem

The first step in repairing a broken zipper is to identify the problem. Is the zipper not staying up? Is the zipper slider not moving smoothly? Is the zipper missing teeth? Knowing the specific issue will help you determine the best course of action.

Step 2: Gather your tools

You will need a few basic tools to repair your zipper. A needle and thread, pliers, and a zipper slider replacement kit (if necessary) are all you need to get started.

Step 3: Fix the zipper slider

If the zipper slider is the problem, the easiest solution is to replace it with a new one. Zipper slider replacement kits can be found at most craft or fabric stores. Simply remove the old slider by using pliers to unzip the zipper and then slide the new slider on.

Step 4: Repair missing teeth

If the zipper is missing teeth, you can sew in new teeth using a needle and thread. Start by threading the needle and then sew the new teeth onto the zipper tape, making sure they are in the correct position.

Step 5: Fix the zipper pull

If the zipper pull has come off, you can simply thread it back onto the slider. If the zipper pull is broken, you can replace it with a new one or create your own with a key ring or a piece of string.

Step 6: Test the zipper

Once you have made your repairs, it's important to test the zipper to make sure it is working properly. Zip and unzip the zipper a few times to ensure that it is moving smoothly and staying in place.

With these simple steps, you can fix a broken zipper and have your clothing item back in working order. Remember to take your time and be patient, and you'll be able to fix any zipper problem in no time.

The best heavy duty sewing machine

 

When it comes to heavy duty sewing, you want a machine that can handle thick fabrics and multiple layers without skipping stitches or breaking needles. After researching and testing various options, we have determined that the best heavy duty sewing machine on the market is the Janome HD3000.

The Janome HD3000 is a mechanical sewing machine, meaning that it is operated by a series of gears and levers rather than computerized technology. This allows for a more durable and reliable machine, especially when dealing with heavy fabrics. The HD3000 also has a powerful motor that can handle even the thickest materials with ease.

One of the standout features of the Janome HD3000 is its ability to handle multiple layers of fabric. The machine's presser foot has a high lift, which allows for thick layers of fabric to be sewn without bunching or shifting. The machine also has an adjustable pressure foot that can be adjusted for different types of fabrics.

The HD3000 also offers a wide range of stitches and features that make it ideal for heavy duty sewing. The machine has 18 built-in stitches, including a sturdy and reliable straight stitch and a strong zigzag stitch. The machine also comes with a variety of presser feet, including a walking foot, which is essential for sewing multiple layers of fabric.

In terms of durability, the Janome HD3000 is built to last. The machine is made with high-quality materials and is designed to withstand heavy use. The machine is also easy to maintain, with an easy-to-access bobbin case and a top-loading bobbin system.

Overall, the Janome HD3000 is the best heavy duty sewing machine on the market. It offers a powerful motor, high lift presser foot, adjustable pressure foot, and a wide range of stitches and features that make it ideal for heavy duty sewing. The machine is also built to last and is easy to maintain. If you're in the market for a heavy duty sewing machine, the Janome HD3000 is a great choice.

Different Machine Stitches

 

Sewing machines have come a long way since their invention in the early 1800s. Today, modern sewing machines offer a wide variety of stitches that can be used for different purposes. In this blog post, we'll take a look at some of the most common stitches found on sewing machines and how to use them.

1. Straight Stitch: This is the most basic stitch and is used for sewing most fabrics. It is a simple up and down movement of the needle and is used for joining two pieces of fabric together. To use this stitch, select the straight stitch setting on your sewing machine and adjust the stitch length to suit the fabric you are working with.

2. Zigzag Stitch: This stitch is used for finishing raw edges and for adding a decorative touch to your work. It is a combination of straight stitches and diagonal stitches that create a zigzag pattern. To use this stitch, select the zigzag stitch setting on your sewing machine and adjust the width and length to suit your project.

3. Blind Hem Stitch: This stitch is used for hemming pants, skirts, and other garments. It is a combination of straight stitches and small zigzag stitches that are almost invisible on the right side of the fabric. To use this stitch, select the blind hem stitch setting on your sewing machine and adjust the width and length to suit your project.

4. Overlock Stitch: This stitch is used for finishing raw edges and for preventing fraying. It is a combination of straight stitches and overcasting stitches that create a neat and tidy finish. To use this stitch, select the overlock stitch setting on your sewing machine and adjust the width and length to suit your project.

5. Buttonhole Stitch: This stitch is used for creating buttonholes in your work. It is a combination of straight stitches and zigzag stitches that create a secure and durable buttonhole. To use this stitch, select the buttonhole stitch setting on your sewing machine and follow the instructions for creating the buttonhole.

6. Basting Stitch: This stitch is used for temporarily holding two or more pieces of fabric together before sewing them permanently. This is a long and loose stitch that can be easily removed after the permanent stitching is done. To use this stitch, select the basting stitch setting on your sewing machine and adjust the stitch length to the longest setting.

These are just a few of the many stitches that can be found on modern sewing machines. Each one has its own unique purpose and can be used in a variety of ways to create different effects. By understanding the different stitches and how to use them, you can take your sewing skills to the next level and create beautiful and professional-looking projects.

Hand and Machine Embroidery

 

Embroidery is a beautiful and versatile art form that has been used for centuries to decorate fabrics and garments. There are two main types of embroidery - hand embroidery and machine embroidery. While both techniques produce stunning results, they are quite different in terms of the process and the final product. In this blog post, we'll take a look at the main differences between hand embroidery and machine embroidery.

Hand Embroidery Hand embroidery is the traditional method of embroidery that involves using a needle and thread to create designs on fabric. It is a slow and meticulous process that requires a lot of skill and patience. With hand embroidery, the embroiderer creates the design on the fabric using a needle and thread. The fabric is held in a hoop or frame to keep it taut while working. Hand embroidery is a versatile and traditional art form that allows the embroiderer to create intricate and delicate designs. It is often used for creating custom designs on clothing, linens, and other household items.

Machine Embroidery Machine embroidery, on the other hand, is a much faster and more efficient process that uses a sewing machine to create designs on fabric. With machine embroidery, the embroiderer uses a special embroidery machine that has a variety of built-in designs. The embroiderer selects the desired design, loads it into the machine, and then the machine does the embroidery. The fabric is held in a hoop that attaches to the machine for the stitching process. The final product is neat and even, and many machine embroidery designs are very intricate and detailed. Machine embroidery is often used for creating mass-produced designs on clothing, linens, and other household items.

Both hand embroidery and machine embroidery have their own unique characteristics and benefits. Hand embroidery is perfect for creating one-of-a-kind, customized designs, while machine embroidery is ideal for creating large quantities of designs quickly and efficiently. Both techniques are beautiful and can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any fabric.

In conclusion, both hand embroidery and machine embroidery are unique and beautiful art forms that can be used to decorate fabrics and garments. Hand embroidery is perfect for creating one-of-a-kind, customized designs, while machine embroidery is ideal for creating large quantities of designs quickly and efficiently. Both techniques are beautiful and can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any fabric. Choose the one that suits your project and preferences.

Three Ways to Mend a Hole in Pants

 

Mending holes in pants can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it's a task that can be easily accomplished. In this blog post, we'll take a look at three different ways to mend a hole in pants, so you can choose the method that works best for you.

1. Sewing: This is the most traditional and straightforward method of mending a hole in pants. You will need a needle, thread, and a pair of scissors. First, thread the needle and knot the end of the thread. Then, place the pants on a flat surface with the hole facing up. Carefully sew the edges of the hole together using a small, tight stitch. Make sure to sew as close to the edge of the hole as possible. Once you've finished sewing, knot the end of the thread and trim any excess.

2. Patches: This is an easy and efficient way to mend a hole in pants. You will need a patch, fabric glue, and a pair of scissors. First, cut the patch to the size of the hole. Then, apply fabric glue to the back of the patch and press it firmly onto the hole. Hold the patch in place for a few minutes to allow the glue to dry. Once the glue has dried, the patch should be securely in place, and the hole will be covered.

3. Iron-on Patches: This is a quick and easy method of mending a hole in pants. You will need an iron-on patch, an iron, and a pair of scissors. First, cut the patch to the size of the hole. Then, place the patch on the hole with the adhesive side facing down. Cover the patch with a piece of cloth or a pressing cloth. Set your iron to the appropriate setting for your fabric, and press the patch onto the hole for about 20 seconds. Once the patch is secure, the hole will be covered.

No matter which method you choose, mending a hole in pants is a simple task that can save you money and extend the life of your pants. With a little bit of time and effort, you can have your pants looking like new again.

In conclusion, there are many ways to mend a hole in pants, but the three most common are sewing, patches, and iron-on patches. Each method has its own unique characteristics and benefits. Sewing is the most traditional and straightforward method, Patches is an easy and efficient way and Iron-on patches is a quick and easy method. Choose the one that suits your level of expertise and the tools you have available. With a little bit of time and effort, you can have your pants looking like new again.

The Importance of Learning to Sew

Once upon a time, in a peaceful forest, there lived a warren of bunny rabbits. They lived together in harmony, and their days were filled with hopping and playing. However, one day, a strange spore fell from the sky and landed in the center of their warren.

At first, the rabbits didn't think much of it, but as time passed, strange things started to happen. The spore seemed to be contagious and started to spread rapidly among the rabbits. Suddenly, the once gentle and peaceful bunnies started to display strange behavior, becoming aggressive and violent.

The warren became a dangerous place as the infected rabbits started to attack their fellow creatures, spreading the disease even further. Before long, the entire warren had been infected, and the once-peaceful bunnies were now vicious, zombie-like creatures.

The disease didn't stop there, however. The infected rabbits started to spread out of the warren, and before long, the entire forest was in chaos. The infection quickly spread to other wildlife, and soon, it had made its way to the human population.

Humanity was caught off guard, and they were powerless to stop the spread of the disease. The infected humans became just as violent and aggressive as the rabbits, and the world was plunged into chaos. Panic and fear spread, and soon, there were few places that were safe from the infected.

Despite their best efforts, humanity was unable to stop the spread of the disease, and soon, it had reached every corner of the world. The once-bustling cities were now empty and desolate, with only the infected roaming the streets. The world was forever changed, and it seemed as if there was no hope of ever returning to the way things were before.

The story of the warren of bunny rabbits serves as a warning to us all. It shows that even the smallest and most unlikely of things can have a profound impact on our world and the way we live our lives. And so, the legacy of the infected bunnies lives on, a cautionary tale of what can happen when we are not careful and vigilant.

How to Get Started with Hand Embroidery

 

Hand embroidery is a beautiful and relaxing hobby that can produce stunning results. If you're new to hand embroidery, here's a beginner's guide on how to get started:

1. Gather your supplies: To start hand embroidery, you'll need a few basic supplies. These include:

• Embroidery floss (or thread) in the colors of your choice
• An embroidery hoop (to hold your fabric taut while you work)
• A needle (embroidery needles have a large eye to accommodate multiple strands of thread)
• A piece of fabric (cotton is a good choice for beginners)

2. Choose a pattern or design: There are a variety of patterns and designs available for hand embroidery, from simple to complex. You can find patterns in books, online, or create your own.

3. Transfer the design to your fabric: Once you have a pattern or design in mind, you'll need to transfer it to your fabric. You can do this by tracing the design onto tracing paper and then tracing it onto your fabric, or by using a water-soluble pen or pencil to mark the design directly onto your fabric.

4. Thread your needle: To thread your needle, you'll need to separate the embroidery floss into individual strands. Typically, you'll use all six strands of floss for a more textured look, or only two or three strands for a more delicate look. Once your needle is threaded, tie a knot at the end of the thread to keep it from slipping through the fabric.

5. Start stitching: There are a variety of stitches you can use for hand embroidery, including the basic backstitch, running stitch, and French knots. Start with a simple stitch, such as the backstitch, and work your way up to more complex stitches as you become more comfortable with the technique.

6. Care for your work: Once you've finished your hand embroidery project, be sure to properly care for it. Iron it on the reverse side, use a mild soap and cool water to gently hand wash it.

Hand embroidery can be a fun and rewarding hobby. With practice, you'll develop your skills and be able to create beautiful, unique pieces. Remember to take your time and enjoy the process.

About Sergers and Overlock Machines

 

Sergers, also known as overlock machines, are specialized sewing machines that are designed to create professional-looking edges and seams. They are commonly used in the garment industry and by home sewers who want to achieve a polished and polished look on their projects. Here's a closer look at what sergers and overlock machines are and what they can do:

1. What is a serger? A serger is a type of sewing machine that uses multiple threads and a set of loopers to create a finished, professional-looking edge on a piece of fabric. A serger can be used to create a seam and a finished edge on a piece of fabric at the same time. It can also be used to create a rolled hem, a decorative edge on a piece of fabric, and even to gather fabric.

2. What is an overlock machine? An overlock machine is a type of serger that uses one or more needles and loopers to create a finished edge on a piece of fabric. It can be used to create a seam and a finished edge on a piece of fabric at the same time. It can also be used to create a rolled hem, a decorative edge on a piece of fabric, and even to gather fabric.

3. Serger vs. traditional sewing machine: A traditional sewing machine uses one needle and one thread to create a seam. Sergers and overlock machines, on the other hand, use multiple threads and loopers to create a finished edge on a piece of fabric. This makes sergers and overlock machines faster and more efficient than traditional sewing machines, especially when it comes to finishing edges on knit or stretch fabrics.

4. How to use a serger: To use a serger, you'll need to thread the machine properly and adjust the tension settings. You'll also need to familiarize yourself with the different stitches and settings that are available on your machine. With practice, you'll be able to create professional-looking edges and seams on your projects.

5. Advantages of owning a serger: A serger has many advantages over a traditional sewing machine. It can save you time by finishing edges and seams at the same time, it can be used to work with knit or stretch fabrics, and it can be used to create professional-looking edges and seams on your projects.

Overall, a serger or overlock machine is a powerful tool for any sewer, whether you're a professional or a hobbyist. They can save time and create professional-looking edges and seams on your projects. It's a great investment for anyone who wants to take their sewing to the next level.

Five Easy Sewing Projects

 

Sewing can be a fun and rewarding hobby, but it can also be intimidating for beginners. If you're new to sewing and want to start with something easy, there are a few clothing items that are perfect for beginners. Here are some of the easiest clothes to make with a sewing machine:

1. Pillowcase dress: A pillowcase dress is a simple and cute dress that is perfect for little girls. It is made from a pillowcase and can be sewn in just a few hours. This is a great project for beginners because it involves only a few seams and requires minimal fitting.

2. T-Shirt: A basic t-shirt is a great first sewing project. It is a simple and comfortable item that can be made with a few seams and requires minimal fitting. You can start with a basic t-shirt pattern and then customize it with different fabrics, colors, and embellishments.

3. Skirt: A simple skirt is another great beginner project. A skirt can be made with a few seams and requires minimal fitting. You can start with a basic skirt pattern and then add your own personal touch with different fabrics and embellishments.

4. Scarf: A simple scarf can be a fun and easy project for beginners. It is a great way to practice your sewing skills and can be made with just a few seams. You can also experiment with different fabrics and styles to create a unique look.

5. Pajama pants: Pajama pants are a simple and comfortable item that can be made with a few seams. They can be made from any comfortable fabric and can be customized to fit your personal style.

These are just a few examples of the easiest clothes to make with a sewing machine. With a little practice and patience, you'll be able to create beautiful and functional clothing items that you'll be proud to wear. Remember to start simple, and as you gain more experience you can take on more complex projects.

Five things you can do with your new sewing machine

 

Sewing machines have been around for centuries, and they have come a long way since their invention. Today, sewing machines are versatile tools that can be used for a variety of projects, from mending clothes to creating custom garments. Here are five things you can do with a sewing machine:

1. Mending Clothes: One of the most basic and practical uses of a sewing machine is to mend clothes. Whether it's a ripped seam or a missing button, a sewing machine can help you fix your clothes quickly and easily.

2. Making Clothing: Another popular use of a sewing machine is to create custom garments. With a sewing machine, you can make anything from a simple t-shirt to a complex formal gown.

3. Quilting: Quilting is a traditional craft that involves piecing together fabric squares to create a beautiful and warm blanket. A sewing machine can help you quilt faster and more accurately than by hand.

4. Embroidery: Embroidery is a decorative technique that involves adding designs to fabric using thread. With an embroidery attachment for your sewing machine, you can easily create beautiful embroidered designs on clothing, linens, and other fabrics.

5. Home Decor: Sewing machines can also be used to create home decor items such as curtains, pillows, and tablecloths. With a sewing machine, you can create custom items that match your decor and are tailored to your specific needs.

These are just a few examples of the many things you can do with a sewing machine. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sewer, a sewing machine is a valuable tool that can help you create beautiful and functional items for your home and wardrobe.

How to Pick the Right Sewing Machine

Hello, Threadbugs!

I get a lot of questions on this blog, and one of the most common questions that I get asked is "What sewing machine should I purchase?"

That's a good question. And the answer is:

It depends.


Sure, I could say "just buy Sew-and-Sews Super Deluxe Model 2000 Do-Everything-Miracle-Seamstress Edition" and be done with it. (And wouldn't it be neat if there really were such a model at an affordable price?!) But honestly, there are so many sewing machines out there that perform different sewing tasks better than others. It can be really difficult to decide which sewing machine is right for you. To help you pick the right sewing machine we'll take a look at some of the various features offered on modern sewing machines. Let's start with the basics.

What do you want to sew?

What do you want to do with your sewing machine? Are you going to use it to do normal sewing jobs like a simple hem? Mend a pocket? Fix a zipper? Add a few inches to your tablecloth? So, first we must ask ourselves what will we be using the sewing machine for most of the time?

Lets consider some common uses for the different varieties of sewing machines:

• Mending clothes and simple items
• Creating Entire Outfits
• Complex stitching across a variety of fabrics
• Decorative embroidery
• Finishing professional garments
• Quilting

It seems pretty obvious that if you are going to do quilting then you need a sewing machine designed for quilting. And naturally, if you are going to do lots of embroidery you would want to buy a good embroidery machine with lots of options to add your own designs.

• Mechanical.
• Electronic (or Computerized).
• Embroidery.
• Quilting.
• Overlock (or Serger.) 

 Now first up, the choice between Mechanical and Electronic is going to be left up to your personal preference. But if you are just at the larval stage here on Threadbug (that means beginner) you probably want to start with a mechanical sewing machine. Unless you learn fast and will sew a lot! Even to this day, my mechanical sewing machine probably gets 90% of my day to day work.

Mechanical Sewing Machines

Mechanical sewing machines are exactly what they sound like. No computer to deal with and no complicated settings. They have a rotating dial to set the stitch type and everything is set in place with the old fashioned way - with your own two hands.  No matter what path you may go down in your sewing journey, you are going to start with either a mechanical sewing machine or a computerized one. For the most part, they accomplish the same basic sewing tasks.

If you aren't sure that you are going to be sewing your brains out, learning all the stitches, and making complex items with many different fabrics, then you may want to start with a solid mechanical sewing machine.

My Budget Pick for Mechanical Sewing Machine

SINGER | Heavy Duty 4452 Sewing Machine with Accessories, 32 Built-In Stitches

One of my favorite mechanical sewing machines is the Singer Heavy Duty 4452.  It is a really solid little machine, capable of handling some pretty tough jobs around the house. I use it for all sorts of fabrics from light cotton, fleece, and faux furs to the occasional textile and denim. This is truly an affordable model and worth every penny.

However if you have a bunch of extra money and feel that you will be working with textiles and a lot of denim items, sewing your own drapery, or stitching furniture coverings on a regular basis you may want to look at something with a bit more power. The Janome HD3000 is something that will power through your tough jobs and easily take you from beginner to experienced eewist and keep up with you every step of the way.

Computerized Sewing Machines

What are computerized sewing machines? 

There is a lot to like about computerized sewing machines. Aside from offering up to hundreds of built in stitches, computerized machines can add time saving features to their long list of advantages. My favorite machines include multiple easy to use buttonhole guides, monogramming, automatic needle threading and drop in bobbin loading, too!

Self threading models are an absolute dream for older tired eyes on those long nights of last minute projects! I don't know how many times I was just too bleary eyed to thread another needle and had to call it a night. That's not the case with an automatic threading machine. It seriously is worth the extra money to me, and I wouldn't have a shop without one these days.

With an extension table included in many models, you don't have to worry about working on larger items such ass pants or quilts. 

My Budget Pick for a Computerized Sewing Machine

The winner here is where price meets value. Affordability makes the Singer 9960 my clear favorite. It doesn't cost a whole lot more than my budget mechanical sewing machine, and it saves you a ton of headache in those long, late hours of sewing. I still cannot get over the autopilot option! Sometimes I feel like I could just let it do it's thing! If only it could do my whole sewing job for me! Just kidding! I like sewing too much to let a machine do it all for me.

I debated even adding a top of the line computerized model here. I mean, if you are ready to spend a lot of money on a computerized sewing machine then you probably all ready know what you want. But I'm going to mention a couple, anyway.

The Janome 3160QDC is clearly a stand out in it's class. For less than one thousand dollars you get a pretty great machine. And you can often find it on sale for about half of the retail price! Just about all of the features above, with an extension table and a quilt kit, too! Quilting, while definitely something that does benefit from its own machine, can be done on any regular machine given the time and patience. And this machine can handle a quilt or two, for sure. (Really, any of them can.) Not only that, but you also get the support Janome is known for around the world.

The Juki HZL-DX is the machine of my dreams. It is strong, quiet, and super easy to use. It also costs several times more than many of my other machines, and double the cost of the Janome model. Is it worth it? Absolutely. But I don't think I would start off with such a wonderful machine if I were new to the sewing world. I mean, why would I want to give up my experiences threading needles in the dead of night, dropping bobbins into the void of my sewing table, and feeding my material too fast and ruining the stretch in my tights?  I never would have learned to appreciate the subtle nuances of guiding my machine by hand and getting a real feel of what it is doing. Isn't that the art of it, anyway?  But... If you don't have the patience to learn and experience the good and bad of all things sewing, you can start with the Juki. I won't judge.

Embroidery Machines

Are you artistic? Maybe into graphic design? Do you want to personalize your wardrobe with more than a simple monogram? Well, friends, an embroidery machine just might be for you.I've only dabbled in embroidery myself, so I really have to go with the experts on these machines.
Many embroidery machines include a set of fonts and built-in designs to let you get started with your embroidery work right away. What I really like to have is the ability to draw up my own designs and send it to the machine to make my own logos and patches. You have to have the right digitizing software to add your own designs, but this machine has that feature and it costs sew little (forgive the pun, I just had to do it!.

The Brother PE770 Embroidery Machine can can whip up your custom logos for patches and badges, too!

Quilting Machines

When I was deciding on a quilting machine I discovered there were a lot of opinions on all the machines out there. I think many of them were based on a combination of experience and workflow - how you, the experienced sewist, approach your quilting task. My quilting machine pick may not jibe with all the big websites out there, but it is often in the top 5 recommended lists and having over 3000 positive reviews on Amazon sure doesn't hurt.

The Brother PQ1500SL can perform 1500 stitches per minute!

This one has all the things you are looking for right off the bat. It has an extended bed for large projects, four feed dog settings for maximum fabric control, and automatic thread feeder and thread trimmer.. It also has a knee lifter so that you can lift your presser for with your knee - leaving your hands free to keep all those quilt layers together. 

And it does  include a 25 year warranty from brother, which includes one of its best features - free technical phone support!

Sergers or Overlock Machines

If you want a serger or overlocking sewing machine you probably all ready have an idea of your basic requirements. Our pick is a real serger machine trimming, coverstitch, and overlocking. If you are buying your first sewing machine, please remember that a serger will not do simple tasks like buttonholes and zippers - that is the job of your regular sewing machine.

If you are going to have a dedicated overlock machine in your sewing room, then you want a good quality one.  Many people spend just a few hundred on a solid and affordable Brother 1034DX that can do maybe 90% pf what you'll need it do do, and that might be right for you. If so, we couldn't recommend a better budget model.

 

Brother 2340CV Serger Machine with Cover Stitch

If you want a serger or overlock machine capable of performing that bottom hem stitch you see on t-shrts you want a coverstitch machine. To recommend a serger that does have the coversticth ability I really like the Brother 2340CV. It can pretty much do it all (serger-wise, remember it is not a regular sewing machine) and not empty your wallet. 

It can be really difficult to recommend a high end specialty machine like these sergers, overlockers, and quilters because you get very near the realm of the industrial machines. But if I were to recommend a coverstitch machine near the prosumer level I feel confident that the Juki CoverPro 1000CX would be a step in the right direction. If you have it please leave a comment below and share your experiences with that machine.