I think you are on the right track to take lessons and learn machine operation and techniques first before tackling any major sewing projects. That way you will get an idea of what you like and don't like in a sewing machine (technology has greatly changed any machine you have ever used), can do your research on machines within your budget and include sewing equipment and supplies, and try the machines you like before buying to get the best fit.

Good advice from Stitchntime. This subject of buying machines comes up from time to time and I think many of us agree that buying from a local dealer is wise, both for servicing and being there to answer your questions. I think it's important to buy the best you can within your budget. A good quality machine, whatever the make, can last for many years. Buying good quality applies also to scissors, thread etc. As for classes, look for something that teaches you the basic skills and move on from there. As well, there are many, many excellent books on home sewing available. Try your local library and if they don't have much in that way I'm sure they could bring some books in on an inter-library loan. Even a good book on various sewing skills would be handy to have as a reference book. Let us know how it all goes. Good luck.

Thanks for the advice.

Sue,

Two months ago, I took up sewing. Like you, I had almost no experience but was very eager to make things for my house. I went to my local dealer (exclusively sewing machines, no vacuums) and ended up buying a Bernina 1008. I chose this machine because it's considered extremely reliable (Swiss made, metal body, mechanical not computerized, with a powerful motor that can handle several layers of thick home dec fabric and trim). In fact, it's the machine used in high school home ec classes and was given an excellent rating by Consumer Reports.

The machine cost $700 and I received 15 hours of sewing classes which were very valuable, free of charge. I also took a special class on learning to sew Roman shades.

I also went to my local public library and checked out a dozen books on home dec sewing. I think it's a good idea to check out several books because the authors show slightly different ways of doing similar things, and no one book is the best source for all projects. One book I particulary like is "Sewing for the Home." I'm also eager to get hold of "Teach Yourself Sewing Visually," which will be published next month and is aimed at the beginning home dec sewer.

I've found the right tools and accessories can help me make fewer mistakes and get professional looking results. So far, I've spent several hundred dollars on specialized feet; rotary cutters, rulers, scissors and mats; notions; an acrylic "quilting table" that attaches to my machine and gives a large work surface level with my needle; and an adjustable plastic tool box to keep everything organized.

In the past two months I've made throw pillows, seat cushions, slipcovers for an ottoman and parson's chair, and a roman shade. My first few projects looked awful, but my skills improved pretty quickly and my latest projects are almost professional looking (at least from a distance).

I love my new hobby because it gives me absolute control over the decorating process. If I don't like the way something looks, I can take it apart, remake it with a different fabric or trim, size it up or down, or change it completely. I only wish I'd learned to sew years ago.

Nancy

Nancy, I have always been the clothes sewer than never really did home dec machine sewing outside of boat curtains and a table cover for my old Kenmore blonde cabinet--until now.

I've always followed the posts that now are handy references. I do have one home dec reference book and a firm believer in using the library for anything. Many city libraries are on line now so you can cruise their site and order books if you have a library card--this saves a lot of time and shoe leather.

I've also recently taken up sewing again (without sewing anything since the 80s). To be honest, I got a machine, read the instruction book, and I was off sewing again. I probably should have bought from a local dealer and spent more time researching, but it was a Christmas gift, and DH wanted to be able to get one without a lot of shopping around.

I bought a couple of books (Sewing for the Home) and then ran out of time! I have done a few minor repairs and hemmed some pants, but just haven't had time to do much else yet. Unfortunately, I'm out of the house about 11 hours a day during the week, and weekends are full of chores and other hobbies. The books do give a lot of hints and instructions for things like measuring, fabric choice, how to do various kinds of drapes, cushion covers and bedding. It's basically what I wanted, which was something to tell me how to measure and how to put the stuff together. I'm the kind of person who will spend months planning exactly what I want, looking for the perfect fabric and then getting down to business. I'd rather spend the time and money to get what I really want than get what's available or cheap and end up hating it!

If you have the time, classes would probably help a lot. Good luck with your projects!

Lotus, since you already have your projects planned, try setting aside 15-20 minutes sewing time and plan your project in sewing units (unit construction) to fit that time. It's amazing how it gets done.

I did that yesterday since I had the pillow cover already cut out. I had one pillow cover done and stuffed in half an hour. I will probably do the other one some time today.