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How To Choose A Sewing Machine & Overlocker: Sewing Machine & Overlocker Buying Guide
Whether you're a beginner stepping into a new hobby or you're an experienced seamstress, every sewist deserves a quality sewing machine to bring their creative ideas to life. From simple tasks such as hemming clothing to more advanced projects like quilting, the right sewing machine can make all the better difference in your next sewing endeavour.
A sewing machine is an investment in your craft and choosing one can seem overwhelming to beginner sewists. Luckily, we've got some tips to help you find the perfect machine for you. In this guide, we'll take you through everything you need to know about choosing the right sewing machine, including the types of sewing machines you'll often come across as well as common mistakes people make when shopping for a sewing machine.
Quick Links
- Types Of Sewing Machines & Overlockers
- Choosing The Best Sewing Machine For Your Skill Level
- Mechanical vs Computerised Sewing Machines
- Sewing Machine Power & Performance Considerations
- Sewing Machine Build Quality & Durability
- Common Mistakes Buyers Make When Choosing a Sewing Machine
Types Of Sewing Machines & Overlockers
Sewing machines, like many other appliances, range from the simple and functional to the deluxe. It's important to consider both your budget and what you want to use your machine for when you make your choice.
Most sewing machines vary in a few basic ways, and working out what you need from each of these variations will help you make your decision. Common types of sewing machines include:
Mechanical Sewing Machine
A great machine for beginner sewists, mechanical sewing machines are also known as manual sewing machines, referring to their electrically powered pedal and handwheel operation. Mechanical sewing machines are durable and valuable for beginner sewists, as you don't have to worry about advanced stitches that often come with computerised sewing machines. These manual machines are generally straightforward and easy to use, ensuring they are both budget and beginner friendly. Perfect for beginner sewists or advanced sewists returning from some time away from sewing, a mechanical sewing machine is sure to be a valued addition to any sewist's craft room.
Computerised Sewing Machine
Looking for a sewing machine that streamlines your sewing process? Then a computerised sewing machine has you covered. These machines offer incredible digital features that make sewing difficult patterns and stitches a breeze.
Most computerised sewing machines offer a number of different stitches, digital screens, automatic needle threading, a start/stop button and the option to leave your needle in the up or down position (keep in mind every digital sewing machine may have its own set of special features). They often run smoother than a manual sewing machine, although you may need to be somewhat tech-savvy to get the most out of an electronic sewing machine.
Shop Computerised Sewing Machines
Overlocker
Overlockers are an amazing investment for any garment maker. Whether you like to make clothes for your kids, gorgeous outfits for yourself, or you're into making costumes for theatre, dance and cosplay, an overlocker will help you create functional, professionally finished pieces.
When shopping for an overlocker, have a look at the features it offers, and consider what is important to you. Just as with sewing machines, a machine price will generally increase with the number of special features you find included.
The main variations you should consider are pretty straightforward. Some overlockers work with three spools of thread, and others use four:
Three spool machines:
- Have a single needle
- Will finish raw edges
- Do not create a secure seam in addition to a finished edge
Four spool machines:
- Have two needles
- Will finish an edge with three threads, while creating a secure seam with the fourth
Embroidery Machine
Save on time and energy when crafting by incorporating a computerised embroidery machine into your craft tool collection. Embroidery machines allow you to create precise, professional-looking embroidery. Embroider designs on canvas to display or add unique decorations to clothing and fabric bags with our handy computerised embroidery machines!
Quilting Machine
Much like other sewing machines, a quilting machine helps to make tricky projects much easier. These machines are designed with a wide range of additional features, including an extended arm for easier quilting. Quilting sewing machines help to efficiently stitch multiple layers, including your quilt fabric, batting, and backing.
Best Machines for Common Projects
Sewing machines are designed to quicken the process of your sewing projects, helping to make your stitching speedier. When shopping Spotlight's range of sewing machines, you'll come across a range of different machines that will help you with specific projects. Let's take you through the best machines for common projects.
Garment Making
Garment making involves turning pieces of fabric into a stylish outfit ensemble. Making a garment from scratch can often be time consuming, but a computerised sewing machine helps to speed up the process. Allowing you to make quick stitches efficiently, computerised sewing machines are great for making pants, dresses, skirts, and so many other garments.
Alterations And Repairs
Alterations and repairs require precise movements and stitches to amend your textile pieces. Whether you're repairing a hole in a cushion cover or bringing the hem down on your pants, a mechanical sewing machine offers complete control over the stitching, making it perfect for precise alterations and repairs.
Quilting
Create cosy quilts with a quilting sewing machine. These machines make it easier to stitch all the required layers of a quilt together.
Choosing The Best Sewing Machine For Your Skill Level
Spotlight's range of sewing machines ensures that no matter your skill level, you'll find the right sewing machine for your next sewing project.
Sewing Machines for Beginners
For those new to the world of sewing, consider mechanical sewing machines. These sewing machines are designed with basic sewing and stitching features. There is no need to worry about tricky controls or choosing between hundreds of stitches.
Sewing Machines for Intermediate Users
Intermediate sewists have the benefit of using mechanical sewing machines for a sense of comfort, however, if you're looking for your next challenge, consider trying one of our computerised sewing machines for your next sewing projects.
Sewing Machines for Advanced Sewists
For those with a fair bit of sewing experience under their belt, you can experiment with a computerised sewing machine. These machines feature a wide range of stitches ingrained in their controls, which can be tricky to get the hang of unless you're confident with your sewing skills.
Should You Buy a Beginner Machine or Invest Upfront If You're New To Sewing?
If you're just starting sewing as a hobby, we recommend shopping for a beginner sewing machine that'll help you master the basics. We'll guide you through a few things to consider when shopping for a sewing machine as a beginner sewist.
Cost Vs Longevity
Advanced sewing machines, such as computerised sewing machines, often come with a higher cost, which can deter beginner sewists. However, these expensive computerised sewing machines do offer incredible longevity, providing you with the perfect sewing tool for years to come. For beginners, it's often best to start with the basics, which will save you time and money on expensive sewing machine equipment while you master the basics.
Skill Growth Considerations
Often beginner sewists look at buying advanced sewing machines so they are prepared for a growth in their sewing skills, however, it's best to first learn how to operate a sewing machine with basic functions so you're ready for the technical features of a computerised sewing machine when the time is right.
Mechanical vs Computerised Sewing Machines
Sewing machines are available both with and without computerised operating systems, and there are pros and cons to each. Check out the table below for more information.
Type | Pros | Cons |
Mechanical | Usually more budget friendly. | Smaller range of stitches. |
Straightforward to repair and service. | Fewer advanced features. | |
Generally more simple to use. | - | |
Computerised | Several advanced features that make sewing easier, such as needle being programmed to stop in the 'up' position. | Usually more expensive. |
Often have a speed control so you can set your maximum comfortable sewing speed. | More complex operating system is harder to repair and service. | |
Generally more versatile due to their larger range of features. | - |
For more information about the differences between manual and computerised sewing machines, check out our helpful blog articles to learn which sewing machine is best for you.
Which Is Easier to Use and Maintain?
With basic controls and operation functions, a mechanical sewing machine is easier to use and maintain. With a mechanical sewing machine, you don't have to worry about learning how to use all the flashy details, nor do you have to search through hundreds of stitches to find the one you're after.
Are Computerised Machines Worth the Extra Cost?
With the ability to create a range of stitches and patterns, sewing machines are a worthy investment for intermediate to advanced sewists. These machines help streamline the project creation for a range of DIY endeavours with no need to push on a pedal. Simply feed the fabric through and allow your machine to do all the work. On the other hand, beginner sewists may struggle learning on computerised machines and they may also find it challenging to fix any issues with their computerised interior. In the end, it's best to consider your sewing skills before investing in a computerised sewing machine.
Sewing Machine Power & Performance Considerations
As much as the type of sewing machine is important, it's the power and performance considerations that drive you to the right sewing machine for your next project.
How Powerful Does a Sewing Machine Need to Be?
When shopping for a sewing machine, you should consider the types of fabric you'll be sewing. If you intend on sewing thicker fabrics, you will need a stronger, more powerful sewing machine able to withstand sewing through heavier materials.
Does Wattage Really Matter?
Shopping for a sewing machine can get confusing with so many features outlined on the packaging. One aspect that can get confusing is the wattage of the machine. The wattage of a sewing machine refers to the sewing machine's ability to sew through certain fabrics. It's only important to keep the wattage of your sewing machine in mind if you're considering sewing with thicker, denser fabrics such as leather, denim and upholstery fabrics.
Sewing Machine Build Quality & Durability
In addition to their operational design, sewing machines also differ in terms of their build and construction. The two most common styles of sewing machines you'll find here at Spotlight are metal frame and plastic frame sewing machines.
Metal Frame vs Plastic Frame Sewing Machines
For those looking for a sturdier sewing machine, consider our range of metal frame sewing machines. These sewing machines are designed for durability, able to withstand frequent use and work with thicker fabrics. Plastic frame sewing machines, however, are much more lightweight and easier to transport. These lighter sewing machines are ideal for sewing students who may be required to bring their own machine to class or for sewists who are looking for a convenient sewing machine option that's easy to operate at home.
What Matters Most for Long-Term Use?
While plastic is a lightweight material perfect for transporting your sewing machines with ease, it does however, mean parts of your sewing machine may be more prone to breakage when compared to metal sewing machines. If you're shopping for a sewing machine that offers long-term use, then metal sewing machines are the way to go.
Common Mistakes Buyers Make When Choosing a Sewing Machine
Shopping for the right sewing machine can be challenging with so many features and details to keep in mind. Let's look at a few of the common mistakes shoppers make when choosing a sewing machine.
Buying Too Many Features Too Soon
Computerised sewing machines with a wide range of features can be tempting, but buying a machine with too many features before you're ready can be overwhelming. Stick to a basic mechanical sewing machine as your first machine, and when the time is right, then you can start looking at the more advanced machines.
Underestimating Fabric Needs
It's important to keep in mind the type of projects you'll be making when shopping for a sewing machine. If you're planning on working with thicker fabrics, it's best to invest in a computerised or at least a metal sewing machine that can withstand working with these materials. Otherwise, you can experience challenges such as sewing machine parts breaking or damaging your fabric.
Ignoring Build Quality
You should always avoid turning a blind eye to bad quality, no matter what you're shopping for, and sewing machines are no different. Whether you're after a basic mechanical sewing machine or an advanced computerised sewing machine, investing in a good quality sewing machine will set you up for your next DIY project.
Choosing Based On Price Alone
Expensive doesn't always mean better quality. You can find great quality sewing machines for a fraction of the cost of other high end sewing machines. What you should be looking at instead of the price are the features and stitches that come with your sewing machine.
Find Bargains Galore On Our Sewing Machine Range At Spotlight Today
Beginner sewists to those with a lot of sewing experience under their belts can all enjoy shopping an incredible range of sewing machines and overlockers here at Spotlight. Spark your next creative journey by shopping our full range of sewing machines as well as our range of fabrics, sewing machine parts and sewing patterns, online or at a Spotlight store near you. And don't forget to check out our range of free sewing projects for inspiration for your next textile creation.
