Where to Buy Sewing MachinesIf you think the best place to get sewing machines is at the local big box or discount store, you might want to consider what you're not getting. Sure, the price is right. But who is going to show you how to use that machine? Where will you get missing parts? Where will you get it serviced if it breaks or stops stitching correctly? You can get a good quality beginner machine at a reasonable price, if you know
how to research the features you will need. And while you're at it, go do test runs on several machines, and then do some online research, like at Hancock Fabrics Once you've narrowed down what you need, it's time to find the best price for a machine with the features you want. What you'll get from a DealerMy first machine, back in the 60's, was a gift my parents purchased at a machine dealer. When I bought a replacement, (25 years later) and every machine thereafter, I went to a dealer.You can get service, classes, accessories and trade-ins at a sewing machine specialist or quality fabric store. They can help you with your machine, and show you how to use it. They will smile when you come in, and be ready when you want a better one. Dealers will give you a good price, but you'll need to negotiate. For example, my newest embroidery machine I bought from a dealer at a sewing convention. It was new, but they used it for demos the whole weekend, shipped it to me at no cost, and I got a discount on the price! If the dealer won't negotiate on price, ask for extras (bobbins, thread, special presser feet, etc.) that would have cost you a lot later on. How about used?Dealers specialize in certain brands. And, since machine manufacturers want to sell more, they are always coming up with new machines with different features. So, dealers get lots of trade-in beginner machines, because so many people want the newest features.The machine may be used, but it has been serviced by the dealer, and will be a great buy for someone looking for a great machine! Buying from a Discount StoreIf you buy your machine from a big box store or discount store, who is going to fix it when it breaks? Where will you find parts, help on how to operate it, and accessories? You'll be fine in the beginning, until you don't understand something, or a part is missing, or your thread keeps breaking.And please, please don't buy your first machine from a garage sale, or from an add on Craigslist. Just like buying a car, buyer beware. You need to know the machine works well. If that machine has been sitting unused for years, it will need a $60 tuneup before it operates properly. Many home sewing machines are just not worth the bother, and the older they get, the harder it will be to find parts. Most long-term sewers will trade in their good machines on a "better" model, at their dealer. What's left? Old, unused machines at garage sales. So, before you buy that new machine, find out
what features to look for.
and check out your local sewing machine dealers. You might be surprised at the quality and choices you'll get, at a great negotiable price!
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