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What kind of machine?

14 years ago

Hello,

I'm new to the Sewing Forum and I thank you in advance for your input and advice. I'm a novice sewer who would like to sew curtains and draperies.

My neighbor let me borrow her 1965ish Bernina sewing machine to do some home decor sewing. I was able to start to get the hang of the machine, and then last night when I was making a table runner, the thread in the bobbin got caught and I can't get the thread out; it's caught around something. Also, the wheel that turns the needle has extreme tension and won't turn much. So, I'm assuming it needs to go in for service. Bummer!

All of this made me decide to buy my own machine. I'm too paranoid of breaking my neighbor's machine as she loves her Bernina sewing machine!

So, given that I'm a novice, and that my interest is project specific to home decor, what kind of a sewing machine do I need? I won't be doing embroidery or quilting. I will need to stitch through several layers of fabric, include canvas, for some curtains so I think I need something pretty powerful and sturdy. I'm hoping to spend no more than $300. Here are some links to machines that are available on CL in my area. Any of these look good for my purposes?

http://seattle.craigslist.org/est/art/1676326089.html

http://seattle.craigslist.org/est/hsh/1670740473.html

http://seattle.craigslist.org/est/ele/1674302512.html

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Comments (5)

susie53_gw
14 years ago
It is just probably caught up down where the bobbin is. Take the bobbin cover off and you will likly be able to see the problem. Don't be afraid to call your neighbor. I am sure it has happened to her. She can come over and fix it in no time. Do panic. You didn't break anything. call your neighbor...

Susie
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msmarion
14 years ago
I can't seem to open your links, but if you can find a Bernina 1260 buy it. It's a work horse. I've had mine since 1995 and love it. I've sewn everything imaginable with it. Sleeping bags, denim repair. Slipcovers, duvet covers draperies. I've done leather repair and bridal gowns as well.
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oilpainter
14 years ago
As Susie said don't panic. You didn't break anything.

The tension feeling tight is probably because of what is clogging up the works in the bobbin case. If I was your neighbor I would rather you call me than take it in for servicing. She may have someplace that she prefers to take it and wouldn't be happy if you didn't tell her.

So I echo Susie--call your neighbor.
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shadylady2u
14 years ago
I've looked at the machines you've posted and I wouldn't get any of them. If you're wanting to buy off CL, I did a search in your area and I would suggest this one, if you can swing an extra $75 (or make an offer to them for less).

Here is a link that might be useful: Pfaff Tipmatic
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andreadeg
Original Author
14 years ago
Thank you all so much for the advice! I did call my neighbor and she is going to come have a look at the machine tomorrow night.

Meanwhile, I would really feel more comfortable if I bought my own machine. So, thank you Shadylady2u for going out of your way to find a machine that will work well for the kind of sewing I'd like to do! I'm going to emailthe owner of the Pfaff and make an offer.

Thanks again to all of you who responded!
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