Several of you have asked for my advice on the best sewing machine options. I really want to help you find a machine that makes it a pleasure to sew and avoid getting a machine that creates a lot of problems for you--there are some really terrible ones out there and I've seen them ALL! I am not the least bit snobby about brands, but not all machines are made equal.

If you already have one of my non-recommended machines below, don't despair--as Tim Gunn says, we'll "make it work"! This guide is more for those of you who do not have a machine already or are interested in an upgrade.

WARNING!!! At all costs, or temptation of low costs--please AVOID the new low-end Singers, Shark, Brothers and White machines. These are the ones offered by WalMart, Target, and the fabric store chains. These machines are very poorly and cheaply made and you do not want a bratty machine that causes constant problems. The Bernette is also a terrible machine and WAY expensive--not a good Bernina alternative. Trust me--an older used machine that has been dusted off and tuned up is quite often a far better machine than a brand new one.

Whatever model you decide on, you'll want these features:

• A separate control for stitch length and stitch width (not all together on one knob)
• Ability to move the needle position from center to left AND right
• Stretch stitches for working with knits
• A free arm
• A good bright light
• A good heavy base

Nice to have:

• One step buttonhole feature
• Speed control
  
• Built in threader
  
• Built in thread cutter
  
• Needle up/Needle down feature
  
• Carrying case or dust cover

Unfortunately I don't get any kickback from any sewing machine company--my opinions are based on personally test driving about a gazillion machines, drying the tears of frustrated students and I feel confident about suggesting the following machines:

Lowcost: A good low cost option is to buy a used refurbished older machine. The new Singer machines are horrible but the older models from the 60's and 70's were built to last and if they were well cared for, they'll work beautifully for you. When buying an older machine, make sure to look for excessive wear on the foot pedal or body of the machine--this can indicate a machine that might be near it's end of life. Make sure you get all the accessories/foot pedal, etc. Good places to look for a new used or old used machine are Sew Much More on Anderson, Austin Sew and Vac in Sunset Valley, Northwest Sewing Center on Burnet or go see Johnny at All City Sewing on S. Congress.

I don't recommend buying an older machine on eBay or online as you just don't know what you're getting, there's no warranty and you pay an arm and a leg for shipping.

Lowcost:

Sears Kenmore model #16221
This is the model that I use for my student rentals. They take unimaginable abuse from first time sewers and I NEVER have to have them serviced. They're reliable, easy as pie to use and built to last. It is an EXCELLENT value for the price.

Moderate:

Sears Kenmore model #16231
This is one step up from the 16221 and has needle up/needle down, speed control and additional stitches. Worth the extra bucks if you have a hard time controlling your sewing speed.

Expensive:

Pfaff with integrated dual feed system (available through Austin Sew & Vac)
This machine is great if you do a lot of quilting or work with slippery/difficult fabrics such as charmeuse, velvet, vinyl, leather, etc. because of the built in walking foot.

Expensive:

Bernina Activa

Other Resources:

PatternReview.com is an amazing site where home sewers of all skill levels review sewing patterns AND sewing machines! If you're considering a particular model--take a look at what these gals are saying. Of course, take it with a grain of salt and check out their profile to see if they've got it going on :)