Sewing Machine Recommendations

[DengLinPiano]

I'm in the process of buying a sewing machine.

Does suit construction require a specific type of sewing machine?

Could you recommend to me some brands and particular models? I want a machine that at the very least won't limit my progress.


Thanks.

[Schneiderfrei]

Many of us like vintage machines, because they are excellent value for money and they were built in a time before planned obsolescence.

An artisan machine is what many tailor businesses in the 50s used. Like a pfaff 138, pfaff 260, etc or singer equivalent.  They are fast and strong.

Many folks would be doing perfectly well on an older (1950, 60s) domestic machine, Singer 219 212 etc. and their copies. Perfect stitch lengths. Something with zikzak would eliminate the need for a serger, but they are useful too.

Modern high speed garment machines are not an advantage, too fast.

Fancy modern domestic machines are way over-provided for with hundreds of dollars worth of embroidery capability that you would never need for tailoring.

1960s 70s and early 80s Berninas are perfectly splendid.

G

[abruck]

I'm in the process of buying a sewing machine.

Does suit construction require a specific type of sewing machine?

Could you recommend to me some brands and particular models? I want a machine that at the very least won't limit my progress.


Thanks.

I recently bought a Juki DDL8700. Solid machine, hoping it'll last me long. Haven't put a ton of use into it yet because I focus mainly on handwork but it's pretty good, just a bit pricey.

[Hendrick]

Hi, like Schneiderfrei I like what used to be referred to in Germany as "Gewerbemachine", the sewing machine for the trade that is professional, of high quality and functional but not a high speed industrial. Makes like Pfaff, Necchi and Singer 201 and Adler or Meister are fabulous machines and indestructable. For dressmaking a Bernina or Elna from before the digital revolution are a class in themselves. Here in Europe these are plenty available and in reasonable to good condition. Like Schneiderfrei said, stay away from complicated computerised machines; you will straight stitch 90 percent of your time. So I would recommend a good straight stitcher of good vintage and a simple overlocker and you're good to go. And of course, a Juki Dll 8200 or 8700 are fine for tailoring but only when they are driven by a perfectly timed servo motor...

Cheers and good sewing, Hendrick

ps My first sewing experience was on a Pfaff 138...