New sewing machine recommendations?

[Zorba]

I'm thinking of getting a new sewing machine. I've been using an old Kenmore from the 70's for costumes and upholstery, but recently it's been jamming up, gathering thread on the bobbin side, and breaking needles very frequently. A lot of the newer machines look like they can handle heavy fabrics or synthetic leather. Anyone have any recommendations on brands or models, or maybe should I just get mine re-timed and tuned up?

 

[MaulWalker]

If it were me, I would take the machine in for a cleaning/tune-up. I know several hard-core costumers who use Kenmores of the same age. Newer machines have more plastic parts and more things that can (and will) go wrong.

 

[iycis]

If you decide to get a new machine, I would buy a Bernina. They're still made with mostly metal parts as far as I know. Mine can handle multiple layers of thick fabric like its nothing. I looove it.

 

[irishamericanlad]

and IF you buy another one, check craigs list, i scored an industrial machine and table with an external 5hp motor a small upholstry shop had, i paid 250 for it and i can sew 12 oz leather, i did a leather begins gauntlets with it...

 

[Zorba]

Sounds like a plan, tune-up. Then either craigslist or Bernina.

 

[mdb]

Yeaha, clean up and oil will do wonders. The symptoms you descibe sound like it is just in need of cleaning

The thread gatherin is a tension issue probably. If you are not in the 3-5 of the tension dial go there first Then if your bobbin case comes out you can adjust the tension there too, usually it's a tiny little screw holding a thin piee of metal that controls the tension. I regularly check this on my 1960 Husquy

If the needles are breaking check to see that you are using the right foot. My Janome says to use certain feet for certain stitches and if I don't the needle rams into the foot.

Otherwise it could just be the tension pulling the needle out of alignment. And other things may be out of alignment too.

I recently took my Janome apart and fixed a feed gear issue. It still could do with a little more fixing (I think I need to tighten a screw a bit more than I have been able to as well as get all the dusty fibres out). Being from the 1980s it is mainly metal and is mechanical rather than a mix of electronic and mechanical parts. It means it is possible to fix at home

I do have a brand new Babylock though and I'm very happy with it. So I'd suggest fix the work horse and then see if you have need of any fancy serging/sticthing and get a lighter machine for that work. My Husquy is for all historic and leather work. The Janome is for modern fabrics and especially stretch fabrics. The Baby lock does all my pretty hemming and my industrial overlocker is for speedy heavy duty work

And I have an Elna lotus just 'cause it is so cute! Well it does work I just need a new needle screw.

 

[professor]

I also think Bernina is the way to go. I have 12 of them in the costume shop (model 1008) and they are super reliable, durable, easy to use, and can sew just about anything.

Good Luck!

 

[GeektressGalore]

I'm happy with my Janome, but I'm a young costumer and may not know what I'm talking about.

 

[Amadscientist]

The best home machine is a Bernina. They also make the best Industrial, but they are pricey. If that is not an issue....buy a Bernina. Do you have a surger/overlock machine? White makes a good machine.

Now...... I can't afford either......so I bought Kenmore, both Machines. LOL!

I am pretty happy with them, all things considered.

 

[MjolnirArmor]

Got a bernina 220. Freaking rocks. Wish it had more clearance sometimes, but seems like a great deal for the price.

 

[BillC523]

Is anyone familar with a Kenmore 1913 sewing machine? I have seen one for sale but cannot find any information on it.

I would appreciate some help.

Thanks, Bill