If the stitching is coming undone after you sew, that says to me there is something wrong with your sewing machine. Stitching should NOT just unravel. I have never had that happen. All I have is a really old Singer machine that was hand me down from my sister after she bought a fancy Bernina machine back in the 1980s! HA! I sew stuff all the time although I haven't made any clothing in years. Right now I have my machine out making bed stuff for my dog and sewing up things that needed some repairs.

Start small, that is what I did when I learned. I can remember back in Elementary School making my own purses out of scrap stuff my Mom had. My friends were all amazed that I made it myself. :) I used to be very creative back in the day.

Although the sewing forum is not very active, you can find info there to help you pick out another machine. I have a Viking Husqvarna that I bought back in 1995 that I still love, and I believe you could find an old one for cheap - mine was $750 when new and is not computerized. I recommend getting an old non-computerized machine for learning purposes. They are also easier to fix if something goes wrong with them.

I also have a new Brother machine that cost about $200 and is computerized, but it will not handle thick layers of fabric, especially denim, and so I'm glad I still have my Viking for that. I rarely use the new machine, but it is great for buttonholes.

I admire people who can sew well, it's a skill I do not possess but wish I did. The extent of my sewing ability is replacing a button, and even then it doesn't look good -- attached but not a good stitch.

I have never owned a decent sewing machine. I have an old Singer that was purchased used that has always has problems with the tension. I borrowed an even older Singer from a friend when her mother died and it needed a home. It eventually went back to her. I only use a machine for repairs or hemming, so don’t need anything fancy. I finally broke down and nought an inexpensive Brother from Costco when it was on sale. My priorities were self threading and zig-zag for hemming. I picked Costco because of their generous return policy in case I hated it. Well, I LOVE it. I can never remember how the self-threading feature works and have to youtube it every time, but it works great. Winding bobbins is painless. There is an amazing selection of fancy stitches and all I’ve tried work well.

If you have a sewing machine store neaby, i'd suggest you look at used basic stitching machines. Many times sewing lessons come along with the purchase and you will have someone show you how to thread and use the machine, as opposed to buying a new machine from stores with no assistance. The older machines are sturdier and usually better made than the inexpensive new machines available at Walmart, Costco, and the like.

You can find them dirt cheap at thrift stores. The one where I volunteered, I tested the machines. I would run a scrap of fabric through every stitch, then leave it threaded with the scrap in it, so a customer could see that it worked. Why don't you ask your sister or your friend what they think you need? They could steer you in the right direction. If you find a used one, maybe they could go to the store and test it for you?

At the staret and end of a line of stiching, you must lock the threads. Stitch forward, then backward slightly, then forward again. Finish the line, then repeat at the end.

If the thread is all lumpy, then the tension is off.

I am sure there are videos online about sewing and as said above, most have classes where they sell machines.

Buy a used machine, don't buy new, especially as you are just learning. Start with very basic things to sew that are flat with straight stitching like a pillow case or a curtain. Making sure the tension is right is essential. And that's easy to fail if the machine isn't threaded properly or if the bobbin is not installed correctly or if the setting is off.

There is so much to sewing that it would be difficult for anyone to learn on their own. Far better to be taught by someone, at least in the beginning. I can remember when I first started learning, I used lined paper with no thread and practiced running the paper through the machine following the lines to learn how to stitch a straight line...learn the various stitches, length, width, and get used to the material moving under the needle while guiding it.

But when it comes to making clothing, there's so much more to know about fit, things like darts and easing and pleating and zippers and button holes and seam allowances and clipping curves and hemming and working with stretch vs. woven fabrics with the appropriate stitches, that it becomes a lot more detail oriented and is best approached on a step by step basis. I always found learning to read pattern instructions a skill in itself. There are also a lot of tools required from proper scissors to sewing gauges, seam rippers, tape measures, cutting boards, various needles, presser feet, and especially a good steam iron (and I had my husband make me a clapper).

Not that it's difficult, but that, if you want to get good at it, it requires a commitment of time and persistence like building any skill that's worthwhile. But it can be most gratifying.

I bought a used machine and it had been traded in because there was something wrong with it - no one ever seemed to be able to fix it completely. Buying a perfectly good inexpensive machine is a good way to start, then if you get into sewing and find you need a more expensive machine, then move up. But, honestly, the machine I bought at Costco for under $200 is really a nice machine that works perfectly.

I agree with the advice to get to a dealer and take a look at what they might have to offer. Of course, a dealer can be hard to find in some parts of the country.

Be wary of the big box machines. They are often not worth the price of a trip to the repair shop if something goes wrong. They are not meant to last and are not easily serviced.

Repairing an inflatable decoration is worlds away from garment construction. So dont even include that experience in your reckoning. That is not fabric and it sounds as if the machine that you were using needs some rethreading and tension adjustments.

I would also advise you to stay away from Singer. And also be wary of any machine that has a label that says "heavy duty". Unless it is an industrial machine, I can assure you that it is nothing of the sort. Both Janome and Brother are a step above Singer.

And, dont buy a used computer model machine unless it is backed by a dealer service. That technology gets so quickly outdated and having a bad motherboard is really bad news.

Restyling old clothing is a hot thing to do right now. In so many places there are not fabric stores anymore and you have to shop online. It is not wonder that so many have turned to the excessive waste of used clothing as a source for fabrics.

Sewing is a skill that takes time and experience. I am self taught from the age of about 10 when I started sewing. I have had my own sewing machine for most of my long life.

No advice. I just applaud you for making the effort.

I once tried to learn and signed up for lessons. The class had different levels and I remember so clearly one woman was making a trench coat. And, she was someone who had just started learning!

It didn't catch on for me. Alterations are expensive, just being able to do a basic helm could be so useful.

It does sound like you have a problem with the machine you used if the seams came apart. Or maybe your stitch length was set too long and you didn’t start & end each seam with a short backstitch or knot.

Start with a basic project like a pillowcase. A solid, one color fabric would be easiest. A plaid would be more difficult but not hard. Helps in learning to match patterned fabrics.

There are people who still teach ‘how to sew’, search for someone in your area. Good luck! (You tube also has plenty of beginner sewing videos.)

Amylou,I am just beginning to read this. I have many sewing machines and in particular vintage ones that I clean up and adjust. These are usually the heavy cast steel machines, all metal, last forever and sew like a dream

I also have modern plastic sewing machines and those can be fun to use. They can help you thread the needle and I love the ones that cut the thread ;) I really like the beeps.

Think about what types of sewing you think you would like to do. You ca always buy another machine.

Think about what you want to spend. The prices and capacities of sewing machines are all over. Wide choice. Most people do not use all those fancy decorative stitches.

The main features used mostly are:

Forward and reverse

stitch locking (reverse a stitch or two)

staight stitch

zig zag

Buttonhole (not everyone uses this, but if you want to sew garments, clothing or home decorating, it can be nice to have).

I have a lot of collectables vintage standbys as well as comuterized modern. I also have a few cheap cute moderns

I buy them second hand with the exception of my first Singer Featherweight 221 and another Singer years ago that my MIL got me.

PS Also figure out if you will be stitching thick denim or canvas seams. For those I would recommend Vintage Kenmore or some Singers (vintage). The Kenmores have a presser foot that raises higher and thus can accommodTe thick/tall seams. I am soeaking on only domestic sewing machine.

Amylou, I think that your stitches came undone becUse you might not have known that at the beginning and end of most stitching, you have to lock the threads by a short burst of reverse stiching. some newer models have a stitch lock feature. I can explain in more depth if you want.

I may be wrong, but I gathered from the OP that the attempt to repair the inflatable was stitching by hand, since she's looking to buy a sewing machine for the first time. For that type of repair, I think fabric glue and a patch might have been a better choice anyway.

And old Singer machines are workhorses. I have 3 from ca. 1950s and they all work very well, with metal gears, not breakable plastic like so many newer machines have. I bought 2 of mine for under $20 secondhand, and one was a curbside find for free. I found power cords and pedals on eBay, and .PDF manuals for free @ online sites. There are a number of tutorials on maintenance and cleaning for specific sewing machine models on YouTube, as well as instructions for use, tips and techniques.

Going secondhand may be outside of OP's comfort zone, I realize. Are there new machines that don't require a lot of prior knowledge and skill to use? I'm kind of out of touch with that.

Yeah, I would not try to stitch an inflatable. Glue.

Having said that, it can be very difficult to repair any inflatable. Quality ones, pethaps and with the right adhesive and instructions.

Here are some photos of decent sewing machine you can find Used at good prices.

Let me ask you, however:

Do you enjoy fiddling, fixing and troubleshooting things? i do, but many people do not like doing this sort of thing?

Are you mechanically inclined would you say?

Do you tend to like to teach yourself how to operate things like New Smart phones, digital cameras, security systems?

Is there anyone like a friend or family member that can help you learn?

I would keep things simple. Forget fancy features and frills. You can get a good mechanical (usually they Re heavy — 30 to 40 Pounds) all metal sewing machine (SM) for little money. Easy to lubricate youself.

Or, there may be a good sewing center near you that offers classes.

Lars and I have this Modern portable Brother CS6000i machine. It is very capable, but only for do estic sewing. It may be too many features for you. It is well rated.

This is one of the last all metal Singers. Has a great satin stitch. Singer Fashion Mate 237. Want a case bottom (see image above) or a sewing cabinet.

A Singer Featherweight portable. Straight stitch only. Collectable and expensive these days. My first SM. ( not my photo)

Singer 201 straight stitch only with reverse. Heavy. Still available but the wiring may need to be replaced. Beautiful stitches. very straight straight stitch. A classic.

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This is a simple RICAR portable that will do straight and zig zag and manual machine button holes. Easy to use. This one on craiglist for about $75. Easy to lubricate and maintain and not much that a beginner get inadvertently mess up.

A used Pfaff. Nice machine, but I would go for Cheap and Simple, like that RICAR above.

I have a very vintage Singer that I still love and use. It was mothers - I learned on it as a child. She'd saved for it. Until she could afford it, she rented a sewing machine about once a year and sewed non stop for the weeks she had it. All the clothing for my sister and me, shirts for my father, clothing for herself, the curtains, bedding for the house. It has a whole case of attachments, most of which I never use unless needing buttonholes and I will use that one. The tension works so flawlessly it will take anything from hemming denim jeans to mending lingerie straps with no issues.

I have a baby lock serger that doesn't hate me, but doesn't like me a lot. I struggle with the threading on that one. I can do it, I don't enjoy it. It was a gift and second hand.

When we bought this house, I bought a small simple Bernette made by Bernina assuming I'd be doing more sewing of curtains, table runners, throw pillows than I actually have. I like the machine. It's super simple, works well.

My advice to you if not renting one, would be go for simple. Sewing machine 101. Just one that completes the basics. My Bernette will make buttonholes, is not computerized but wlll change to something like 23 stitch patterns with a simple turn of a dial. I think I paid approx $150-$160 for the Bernette on sale at a local quilt shop (more than 5 but less than 10 years ago).

You might want to keep your patterns on the simple side too, don't give yourself bigger challenges than you are capable of - a sewing project going wrong is not in the least rewarding and that comes from someone who has taken out their share of seams....

I'm not sure the actual machine is the most important thing in learning to sew. I have done very little sewing in my life but recently decided to make a dress using my MILs 1950s Singer. It has no fancy stitches and can't do buttonholes. I found that more important than the features of the machine was knowledge of specific techniques. Knowing how to pin, tack(baste), transferring the pattern to the fabric with notches, knots or chalk, the importance of accuracy in cutting out, different kinds of seams, understanding pattern instructions, etc. It's basically geometry and engineering with fabric. I realised that a year of school lessons when I was 12 had actually taught me a lot, although I hated them at the time. I also recently started knitting. I found getting a good result in sewing far harder.

Ps get good scissors and an unpicker too!

Popular sewing patterns these days note whether they're for beginners or more advanced skill levels. They should say 'easy' or similar right up front.

I would make sure you buy a certified used machine or new. You will give up on sewing if your machine does not function correctly, it is very frustrating. Please take beginner sewing lessons. Like Annie said, commitment is the key.

I’ve read good things about the Brother CS6000i. Many quilters say they use it as a travel machine or have taught their grandchildren how to sew with that one. I almost bought a used one to put away for teaching my granddaughters but decided that since that might still be a few years out (or they might not be interested) to wait. But while I was looking I found a lot on Marketplace. Even today there are a several listed ranging from $100 - $300.

My only concern would be - since I’ve never used it- can it go through thick seams? Hopefully Lars or Petalique can jump in here and answer that.

Good luck with it all! I love reading everything you post and look forward to you sharing your highs and lows of leaning to sew!

Thanks everyone. Yes, I did try to hand stitch the inflatable. Actually 2 different ones, both snowmen, both 20 feet tall. The first was one I displayed at work. When I couldn't get it to hold I took it to my mom, who sewed to up on her machine and that repair is holding. The one I displayed in my yard my sister came and hand stitched it. It is also still holding the repair well. Glue, tape and patches did not work. The inflatable is sewn together, so I am not sure why one wouldn't think to sew a tear in it. But sewing the tears did work, just not when I did them. Because I SUCK.

I am going to try to pick up what skills I can from the sister and friend of hers that will be making the dresses. I am not going to just throw fabric and patterns at them and wait for them to do all the work. I will be doing what I can. Cutting fabric, pinning, whatever they need. While there, I will observe and ask questions. The friend of my sister really is amazing at it. I never ask the friend of mine who hand sews garments to make me anything, and as she refuses to use sewing machines, and I am quite certain I do not have the patience to hand sew a whole gown, I will not ask for her instruction. I have been watching lots of videos on YouTube and TikTok that have been somewhat helpful. But, like with anything I will have to do it and practice.

The only sewing machine I have ever had was a kiddy one, given to me by my Godmother when I was ten or so, and I couldn't make that one work great either. But, then, one would not really expect a sewing version of an easy bake oven to do much good anyway.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004OA7IDE?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1

Here is the pattern for the dress I am most excited for. I am hoping for 2 of these, one in Halloween prints and one in Christmas fabrics. Obviously, not something a beginner can just tackle. BUT, thats why I am leaving it to the more skilled while I learn..

Oh my - that is definitely NOT a beginner's pattern 😃

Isn't it WONDERFUL though??!!? I am all over etsy trying to find appropriate fascinator hats to go with them. And perhaps a parasol or two.....

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074Q53ZRG?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details

This is another one. I asked for the jumpsuit/overall looking one (D) in turkey prints. Also, any other holiday print they feel inclined to do. I have something similar in Halloween and Christmas prints that I bought from amazon or Temu, and I like to wear a HORRIBLY mismatched,yet the same holiday themed shirt underneath. And of course, the shoes. OH the shoe collection I have for the holidays!!! Fun fact: I have exactly 3 pairs of shoes for everyday life. My walking shoes, my work shoes, which are very supportive and comfy sandals, and a pair of flip flops. I have 10 pairs of Halloween shoes alone.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N7WJARO?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details

I got this one for the F pattern. I want the main part of the dress to be a Christmas stocking print fabric that has a lot of green in it. And I want the flares on the sleeves to be a candy cane print. I would absolutely ROCK any of the dresses shown there though.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019IP1O3O?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details

This one, I like D and E. These most closely resemble most of the dresses I already have for the holidays, though not all. I like them because they are more loosely fitted, and it wont matter if they are a little too big or fit perfectly by the time whatever holiday comes. Plus, the simple design lets the pattern on the fabric stand out. I really REALLY like bright, colorful and whimsical items for the "big 3" holidays. I love wearing holiday themed leggings underneath, that provide enough contrast for each piece of the outfit to stand out. I think if I were to attempt one on my own, it would be this pattern.

Amy, I'd finish a dress, see if possible, before adding to the expense buying accessories.

That is not a simple pattern, it's far from it 😘 A costume my mother could have made with her amazingly creative skills - while I wouldn't even attempt that one.

No worries morz, I have a huge accessory collection too for my holiday clothes. I would not buy an item for JUST one dress, unless I was dressing up as a specific character or something. If I were to get the fun hats and the dress wasn't done, I would just wear it with a different outfit. I just do not think I would wear THAT gown WITHOUT a tiny hat set at a jaunty angle. But I don't NEED that dress to wear such a hat.

I'd look for a basic machine that has staight stitch and zigzag. Those are really the only two stitches you'll really need.

I've just started sewing again and I'm having to relearn everything!!! Even an invisible zipper installation. I'll be unpicking stitches this morning for a top I'm making. I was following the pattern instructions to a T but near the end they added one instruction that really should have come earlier. UGH I thought it was funny but did what they said in the order they said. Oh well, lesson learned - read all the way through first.

I have some experience on the littel Brother 6000. I say that is a machine that sew fairly well until it doesnt. And, if it doesnt, it is not worth a repair call. They are not built to be easily maintained or repaired. they might do well as a secondary machine or a back up or a portable one. But they wont last for long if you really use them a lot. I have one in my sewing room right now that belongs to someone else. It does make a nice buttonhole, but lacks the solid integrity of my better machines.

I was wondering, “what are halloween shoes?” and then I googled.

Halloween shoes. These are some of the pairs I have. Like half. I like to mix and match these sometimes as well.

The first linked pattern isn't a Vogue pattern - it's McCalls.

Maybe check out the rest of McCall's costume patterns - you might find something very similar and a bit easier to make:

https://simplicity.com/costumes/adults-costumes/

And there's a hooded cloak that looks like it might be a good one for a beginner - and could really elevate the look...

https://simplicity.com/mccalls/m8428

Amy Lou, I had a Singer 778 that I bought in 1977. It served me very well until about early 2000's. There was a retired Singer repair man that lived near me and he had to fix it a few times, but it finally gave up the ghost! It had a lot of stitches (cams).

Then I bought a Singer for $125 from a big box store. Used that quite a bit. Took it in for some maintenance and cleaning. Cost me $125!

About 4 years ago my one DDIL needed a sewing machine, so I bought myself a $145 Brother from a big box store. If it ever needs work, I'll just buy a new one, cheap enough!

The old machine I gave my DDIL is still going strong. Every so often when I visit we clean and oil it, she loves it. I bought her a newer Brother like mine and she is saving that one until the Singer bites the dust.

Don't be afraid to buy an inexpensive machine.

If you buy from a shop, they will give you lessons with your machine, that is the only advantage I see, especially if you have people who can teach you on your new machine.

Starting with pillow cases and things like that will help you "know" your machine.

Kathy G in MI

Kathy, dealers generally carry a product somewhat above the big box machines. I dont know where anyone even finds a machine dealer, though. I live in a large metro of a major city and the only dealers that I find are hours away and almost might as well be on the moon.

You are right that they are not meant to be repaired or serviced. As the old saying goes, "There outta' be a law" against making some of these cheap appliances.

Think what happens to these kinds of things. Do they get piled intact into that landfill? Can you imagine a full sewing machine sitting in there among all the baby diapers, vegetable peels and cat barf filled paper towels? Whatever does one do with it? What happens to it? Where do you "throw away" something like that? Do you just put it out for the trash? "Throwing it out" is not a good or viable alternative, for anyone, anywhere, ever.

I would even bet that the amount of value in what was produced with the machine before it stopped working is very likely to not be enough to counter the environmental price that was paid. And, I dont mean only in monetary value, rather, inherent and overall value is what I am referring to.

Sorry, Kathy, I dont meant to target you, personally. Just replying to your comment.

We cast aside so many of these kinds of appliances everyday, from coffee makers to kids toys to old mixers and blenders. The list seems almost endless.

Electrical appliances are eminently recyclable. They are full of valuable materials. But for that to happen there needs to be a system. We can put anything up to the size of a sewing machine in our normal weekly recycling box. Anything bigger can be taken to the recycling centre, or, if it's too big or you have no transport, the council will collect.

floral, you are right.

The problem is that it takes too much effort to get a piece of stuff where it needs to be to be reclaimed. And, that is almost non existant for many. I would wager that it is non existant for MOST of us.

None of it is pretty and it is all at a price, one way or another. Who pays that price? We all do, collectively, in the end, at the end of the day, ultimately., and when it comes right down to it..........we all do.

Also, I read the it is said that Singer started the trend of trade in when you bought a new machine. It was a popiular option when you went to a dealer to buy a new machine that you will be offered a trade in value and it persisted not just with Singer, but with most dealers. I have heard that Singer was motivated by the fact that it was preventing the machine from being passed on. It was best to buy it back and reclaim the metal for new machines. Back then, most of the machine would have been able to be reclaimed. They were simple constructed but they were heavy constructed to last. But, durable did not turn profits. Back then the only place to buy a machine was from a dealer or maybe a Sears catalog. Not sure about the catalog, though.

I've been reading some of your replies. I have a Bernina 165 Artista, touch screen. Link I found it used on Ebay....15 years ago. $800 with shipping. I also purchased a Brother Runway machine from Walmart $135. The Bernina will sew through 4 layers of leather, with a leather needle....or stitch through upholstery seams with piping. It is AMAZING! The Brother, electronic with 57 stitches, I use to repair DH's blue jeans....endless rows of back & forth stitching....just wearing it out on mindless nothingness. I've found the arm is longer and narrower on the Bermina...makes blue jean repair much easier. It also sews through the blue jeans side seam. I've stopped using the Brother. Owning ONE good machine...is enough. I don't like the Brother's straight stitch...it's not as straight and even....the sound it makes when sewing isn't smooth and sweet like the Bernina. I'll probably never need another sewing machine in my lifetime....just the Bernina.

My Bernina has traveled with me through life for almost four decades and still going. One probelm with an older Bernina may be original parts for repair. The company lost thier backup supply of spare parts some time ago due to either fire or flood. I think it was flood and the warehouse was in a valley near a river.

That little Brother machine does not produce a stitch that is as good as the Bernina. The Bernina runs like a machine built with structural integrity and precision. The big box ones come no where near that and just clunk along, until they dont.

I would love a Bernina Artista. I have a Bernina Record (among others).

That Brother 6000, for little money, and the Baby Lock Verve can do some fun things.

Nicole, where might I find one? I have heard of a lot of nice SM (sewing machine) betting destroyed by ebay sellers (not double oxing and adequately protecting the machines).

I don’t need a Bernina machine any more than I need a herd of goats….

Actually, I think I do need the goats to tackle the bittersweet, knotweed, poison ivy and grapevine.

I have befriended a few eastern cottontails and thet rush to great us when we are outside. We have treated them to sunflower seeds. They also like to eat petunias and other flowers.

PS Today, one of the regulars was relaxing under the glass patio table (it’s on grass). I often see them stretched out. At dusk when I put a bit of BOS (black oil sunflowe seed) out for the cardinals (who have their last snack at dusk), the bunnies are waiting. The population doesn’t seem to be increasing, despite the cavorting that goes on. They are adorable, but as a wildlife rehab person told me, they are the top grocery item for bobcates, coyotes, foxes, owls and hawks.

Claudia Valentine, claudia valentine My first Singer cost me $500 and that was back in 1977. It was a work horse. When it died I gave away all the parts and cams to it here on the Sewing Forum. Even 10 years later I got a question if I still had the cams.

I then bought a basic Brother, DDIL has that one. I got the Project Runway Brother now, $145.

I have bought sewing machines from garage sales and it was not worth the $ to have them fixed.

Wish I still had the old Sears machine my Mom had and I taught myself on when I was 13!

When this one bites the dust I will take it to Best Buy and pay to have them recycle it. I would hope they would take it.

Yes, too much going into the trash.

Kathy G in MI

Kathy, do you recall the model of your first Singer?

What model was your Kenmore?

I have one of the small, all metal Kenmores (they came in an ivory rose embossed case. Adorable.

Petalique, years ago we had one wild brown bunny that lived in the raspberry patch. When DH would come home from work and park his truck in the driveway, it would browse clover in the lawn next to the driveway. Maybe it felt like the truck gave it someplace to hide if it had to. But it didn't run from us.

And the one lone rabbit didn't cause enough damage any place to be a concern.

He liked apples. Sweet, not tart. I would cut sweet apples into 8ths for it and all the older neighbors would enjoy watching it come out to eat them - became an evening event that year. (we preferred more tart apples so I had to shop for the rabbit).

I love that story, morz8. I will try some apple. I have sometimes put green down and the buns have turned up their noses. They prefer greens harvested at the last second! So then, I began rooting or planting things for them, or at least sticking them into soil.

Call me a demented old lady, after the past week’s news, I am ready for anything.

The chipmunks have figured things out and they come to the stone walkway and stand on their hind legs, begging. I am trying to find a way to get these critters to weed or man a paintbrush.