We could do with a replacement sewing machine, ours now only does straight stitch - an internal gear broke up and the piece went out of stock over 10 years ago (I've tried gluing it back together but it wouldn't mesh properly and I don't think 3D printing is an option due to how it's attached to what it's on). It's for hobby stuff rather than running a sweatshop out of my living room but I'd like it to be reliable and last.
Sooo what's a decent second hand machine that we can be looking at? Ideally I'd like all internals to be metal and replaceable, it also needs to be strong enough to get through a few thick layers of fabric (thinking fabric for bike bags and the like). I'm currently thinking a singer 401 but I don't really know what I'm looking for. I'd say budget max of 200-250 for something that will last.
Just asked my girlf. She says whatever Bernina machine is in budget.
An old frister+rossman cub 6.
Small but mighty.
And really quiet.
If you want the best a Singer 201k, all metal, look great and used buy Rolls Royce for their upholstery
Well according to my wife it's a bit like bikes, you need different machines for different jobs, we now have 2 and an overlocker. Sorry cant recommend anything, just thought I'd share.
At the moment buying a second hand sewing machine is like finding a needle in a haystack. Since lock down, sewing as a hobby or helping keeping your clothes together in incredibly popular.
But I'm sure others on here can give you some good advice. My own is an industrial Singer and is still going strong after 35 years. My Rimaldi over locker is possibly 50 0dd years old.
It's such a shame you can't find the part you need. There must be someone in this country that has a part tucked away in a cupboard somewhere.
It is like bikes, my wife has SEVEN. The basic Janome/Singer/brother's are OK. She has one that cost over £4k, another that was £2.5k and an overlcker that's around £1k.
Two computerised sewing/embroidery machines, 3 overlockers, 1 basic sewing machine that's great for transporting, and a freehand quilting machine, oh and a quilting frame (bits of wood basically, that was £1k.
Like anything, the more you spend the smoother they are. Something £200 would be fine.
I need more bikes as I'm down to 4.
My wife's basic one is a Janome 2032
Similar model
https://www.gursewingmachines.com/janome-j3_18-sewing-machine-3587
I bought my girlfriend a Janome similar to the one @fossy has linked to on the recommendation of the stw massive a few years ago
Thanks all, a few more options to explore 🙂