I have a $300 budget for a new sewing machine, what should I get?

I'm not inexperienced but I don't know much about different models, aside from the big brands. I've already had bad experiences with used ones, so I definitely want to buy new. I mainly sew stuffed animals and do small repairs on clothing. If I can sew through light leather, like sheepskin, that's an absolute bonus.

Any help or advice is appreciated!

16 points · 7 comments · view on lemmy.world

7 Comments

jordanlund@lemmy.world · 8 pts · 36d (2 replies)

I saw a pretty nice one at Costco the other day, I was tempted, but have other things going on:

$190:

https://www.singer.com/products/singer-heavy-duty-8832-black-sewing-machine

Wren@lemmy.today · 4 pts · 36d (1 reply)

I saw that one on amazon, too. It's a great price and has decent reviews. I like that it's all mechanical, too.

10MeterFeldweg@feddit.org · 4 pts · 36d

My wife has the grey version and she loves it!

Zephorah@discuss.online · 5 pts · 36d (2 replies)

Whatever you get, make sure you can replace the light if it burns out. A relative bought a fancy Brother not too long ago. The light burned out. It requires a repair shop because it’s not a changeable bulb, it’s soldered in.

nocturne@slrpnk.net · 4 pts · 36d

That is disappointing to hear from brother.

Wren@lemmy.today · 2 pts · 35d

Good to know! Thanks.

actionjbone@sh.itjust.works · 2 pts · 36d

Any good thrift shops in your area? Sometimes you can get lucky.