Bernette sewing machine

Several years ago, the standard advice was to get some old purely metal beast that could punch its needle through layers of denim and leather. Maybe that is what you need to do.

Alternatively, many of us sew only with lightweight fabrics now. I sew with thin sil-nylon, silk, spinnaker fabric, and thin polyester fleece. A don't need all of that metal muscle to power through layers and layers of fabric. As a result, I purchased a modern Brother machine that has the necessary modern features and stitches.

Such a modern machine costs well less than $100, and you don't need to keep looking for a sewing machine repair shop.

–B.G.–

I've used Janome for years – works great

One thing good about modern machines is low maintenance. I never do anything.

I remember my mom's old machine had a manual with 20 points you had to lubricate. New macines have sealed bearings.

I was gifted a Singer 4423 Heavy Duty, and my amateur eyes can't find much fault with it. One thing I don't like, but maybe this is common to all cheap machines, is that the pedal is very light and doesn't feel like it has smooth range of motion. I have big ole size 14 feet and I have to sew barefoot to get smooth operation. Maybe not an issue for those with experience who run their machines full bore.

I started sewing canvas projects with a heavy duty sailrite machine. It is basically an old school all metal machine that is quality controlled to be a fairly economical and bullet proof sewing machine. For multiple layers of heavy canvas it is fantastic. For light weight fabrics it sucks. Now sewing clothing and light weight fabrics I purchased a Janome electronic model with an array of stiches from overcasting to button hole stiches. Pretty much all you would need. The overcast stich is nice substitute for a serger machine. The electronic speed control and stich jogging features are really nice for precise stitching. I will probably soon pay for the machine in clothing projects this winter. If money is an issue remember that even a single straight stich machine will produce some very decent results in the hands of a skilled seamstress if not quite as fancy as a higher priced machine. Have fun and good luck in your search for the right sewing machine.

jimmyb

With my Janome I sewed through 3D mesh, 3 layers of 200D fabric, and 3/8 inch closed cell foam. It wasn't the dense foam like blue foam, but a lighter weight material.

Sometimes, when I sew through the hook side of velcro, there's a bird's nest on the bottom, but if I don't try to push or pull it through it's usually okay.

Thank you very much for all of your helpful replies, I appreciate it very much.

I have located a Pfaff 1222e in a good working condition. What luck! Will meet the person next week to check it out. If not then I will buy one of the new bernette entry level models.