skip to main content

Sewing Machine for 13 Year Old

18 years ago

I am looking for suggestions for a sewing machine for a novice sewer.

My thirteen year old cousin loves to sew but does not have a sewing machine. Some family members decided to pitch in and buy her one for her Bat Mitzvah.

We are looking for a good simple machine without a lot of frills. We do like some extras like an automatic bobbin winder and a needle threader, but don't need things like embroidery cabpabilities. Our budget is $500.

Thank you for any suggestions.

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (9)

minnie_tx
18 years ago
I got a nice one at Walmart for arouind $99. Different stitches and Reverse. the only thing I wish it had was "needle down" capabilities.
Islay_Corbel
18 years ago
Some of the fancy stitches are really nice to have if you can get them. She might like doing them round the hem of her jeans or skirts. Good luck hunting.
Related Discussions
Old Franklin Sewing Machine year?
Q
Comments (1)
The number imprinted on the slide plate over the bobbin run is indeed your serial number. Franklins were made by the Domestic Sewing Machine company and were one of the brands very typically found in Montgomery Ward turn of the century catalogues. White eventually bought out Domestic. I'm not sure what year the machines sold under the Franklin badge ceased production. I used to have a bunch of material on sewing machine manufacture dates and who badged what but I'd not know how easily I can find it. I have a modest collection of old machines. But this is a start to point you in the right direction.
...See More
Old Sewing Machine...any clue?
Q
Comments (13)
Thank you Dawn. I can do that :) Wasn't sure if they need to be uploaded or something. http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/nn31/Daniel_20-13/My%20Old%20Sewing%20Machine/101_1985.jpg http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/nn31/Daniel_20-13/My%20Old%20Sewing%20Machine/101_1987.jpg http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/nn31/Daniel_20-13/My%20Old%20Sewing%20Machine/101_1990.jpg http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/nn31/Daniel_20-13/My%20Old%20Sewing%20Machine/101_1992.jpg http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/nn31/Daniel_20-13/My%20Old%20Sewing%20Machine/101_2004.jpg
...See More
Old sewing machines?
Q
Comments (12)
For a home machine, the Bernina is about the best you can get, although I am more familiar with the 830 model than the 614. No problem finding parts for the Bernina 830, but the resale value is high, and so you won't find them for that cheap. I've used industrial machines also, and they go extremely fast, which is good if you are very accurate, but it is also very easy to make a bad seam that will have to be taken out and resewn - not an acceptable thing if you are sewing leather. I have a Viking/Huskvarna machine that I bought new about 15 years ago, and it is almost as good as the Bernina. Best to avoid any machine that has a computer in it, as those are very expensive to repair and become obsolete very quickly. The Bernina and Huskvarna are both good at sewing leather, but you have to see the needles made for leather.
...See More
sewing machine for granddaughter
Q
Comments (3)
Check your local sewing machine dealers for used machines. The Used Machine stock at my dealer is variable (depends on what's been traded in that he considers good enough to resell), but I've often found sturdy brand-name macnines in the $100 price range. They tend to be older machines in good working order, but perfectly servicable. Your dealer may offer free "how to use a sewing machine lessons", even with a used machine. One dealer I worked with would teach children as young as your granddaughter as long as the child was accompanied by an adult. Ask your dealer what his or her policy is. CMC
...See More
Marina101
18 years ago
I am fourteen years old, and i have a Brother CS 6000t from Wal Mart. it has all the functions you might need, and some fancy stitches. No problems with it so far. I think that i got it for around $196.
ell_in_or
18 years ago
If you purchase the machine at a local dealer, as opposed to a big box store, your cousin will likely be able to take a free lesson or two on how to use her new machine. They can show her how to clean it and what specialty feet are available for it and how to use them.
ljwrar
Original Author
18 years ago
Thanks for the suggestions.

ell, I would love to buy it at a local dealer. My cousin lives in San Antonio and the rest of us live elsewhere. My parents will probably buy it in Houston and bring to her when I am there. I will probably have to figure out how to use it and give her a lesson.

Maybe we can buy it at a retailer with locations in both places. That way the San Antonio store can show her how to use it.
loganhogan
18 years ago
Since ya'll had a pretty large budget have you though about getting her 2 machines? A serger and basic machine. I've bought sergers (yes plural) from Sew Vac in College Station, Texas. I've been very pleased with them and that's where my Mother's embroidery machine came from. Sometimes they have combo deals offered on there website. Just an idea.
Susan In Bama
mary_c_gw
18 years ago
Get it where she lives, from a dealer who give lessons with the purchase. You don't have to buy an expensive machine to get the lessons.

These can be invaluable to the beginning sewer, not only for the skill they teach, but for networking with many other people with the same passion.
donnah
18 years ago
Also consider a used machine - a good dealer will have reconditioned machines that someone turned in for a fancier model and they can be a great bargain! The older machines are often built better. I agree that buying from a local dealer is the way to go.
User
18 years ago
Look for a previously high-end used machine at a local dealer.

They will give a couple of lessons, and the machines are of higher quality.

Pfaff and old Viking or Husqvarnas are build like tanks!

Related Stories

VINTAGE STYLE Antique Sewing Machines: Tailor Made for Nostalgic Decor

By Tiffany Carboni

In full-on vintage rooms or contrasting modern looks, old sewing machines and tables are stirring up the past in a most stylish way

THE HARDWORKING HOME 8 Laundry Room Ideas to Watch For This Year

By Mitchell Parker

The Hardworking Home: A look at the most popular laundry photos in 2014 hints that dog beds, drying racks and stackable units will be key

COLOR March Into Year-Round Chic With 15 Twists on Red, White and Blue

By Becky Harris

Parade your patriotism and your style sophistication with new looks for a classic color trio. Drumroll, please ...

LIFE Houzz Call: What's Your New Year's Resolution for the House?

By Vanessa Brunner

Whether you've resolved to finally finish a remodeling project or not stress about your home's imperfections, we'd like to hear your plan

STUDIOS AND WORKSHOPS A Stitch in Time: Creative Sewing Spaces

By Susan Redman

Sewing rooms have become popular again as people of all ages embrace simple crafts they can do at home

DECORATING GUIDES Practical New Uses for 23 Old Things

By Mitchell Parker

Junk? What junk? Those things cluttering up your storage space are home solutions waiting to happen

FURNITURE Great Vintage Find: Antique Sewing Tables and Cabinets

By Becky Harris

These history-rich pieces add unique style and function all over the house

DIY PROJECTS Make a Gorgeous (Cheap!) Pillow Using Vintage Clothes

By Shelly Miller Leer

With secondhand fabric and a steady hand on the sewing machine, your pillow choices are endless

DECORATING GUIDES 13 Home Design and Decor Trends to Watch for in 2013

It's predictions ahead as we find out what's on the radar of designers and makers for the coming year

HOMES AROUND THE WORLD Houzz Tour: Easy Mix of Old and New Revives a Family Townhouse

By Lara Sargent

Contemporary furniture and modern fixtures blend with period architecture in this large open-plan home in London

Sponsored

Columbus Premier Design-Build and General Contractor

More Discussions

denim, our "mother fabric"

4

huck toweling, anyone?

3