Sewing Machine Recommendations

Student Question: What should I look for in a sewing machine? If you can, go to a dealer & check out what they have available. If possible, go in & try them out. This way you can compare features.

Student Question: What about machines from big-box stores like WalMart or Amazon or fabric stores like Joanne’s? If possible, go to a sewing machine dealer. If it is not possible to go to a dealer, you can buy online, but look for the following features that make learning to sew SAFE & EASY:

1) Drop in bobbin (not front loading)

2) Speed control

3) Steel interior frame

You want as sturdy and reliable a machine as you can get for your money. Beware advertising with claims like: “This machine is the easiest machine for beginners.” or ” This is a heavy duty machine.”

Student Question: Why do you use (and recommend) the Viking/Husqvarna Emerald 118 in your classes? Viking/Husqvarna is a well-known name in sewing machines and the Viking Emerald 118 has everything I want in a machine for teaching. They have kept the quality high, it’s a great machine for a beginner & it’s a great value for the price. This sewing machine is very well-designed. It has a simple threading numbering system. It is also free-arm or flatbed, the drop-in bobbin is easy to use and it has a speed control lever that makes learning to sew safe & enjoyable for all levels,  especially beginning sewing students.