HOW TO: Buy a Sewing Machine

If you are thinking of purchasing a sewing machine, new or used, but have no idea where to get started, there are a few important details you should keep in mind while shopping for your ideal machine.

Machine model
Think about what kind of projects you will be using your machine for the most. Will you be making clothes for yourself or other people? Do you need a machine for basics, such as hemming or minor alterations? Maybe you require a specialty machine for cover stitching or embroidery, or one that is equipped with a buttonhole function. There are tonnes of different kinds of machines and this brainstorming process will help you pinpoint the type of machine you need.
Your budget
Sewing machine prices can range anywhere from $60 to $9000. Once you have determined what kind of machine you need, come up with a spending limit. This will clearly keep more of your pennies in the bank, but it will also narrow down your search. If you happen to come across a bargain, do not let the impulse purchase feeling take over you. A bargain does not always end up being a good deal. Do your research, which brings me to the next point...um...research!
Research
Shop around and compare sewing machine companies, machine functions, prices, as well as warranty. You want a machine that will give you the most bang for your buck, and one that does not lack anything you need when making projects. Research locally or online. Read machine reviews. Ask for tips from friends who sew. Find a great sewing machine store that has a good reputation. And while you're at it, make sure you locate a machine repair shop (preferably close to your home).
Testing out the goods
Make a list of all the things you want to try out on an machine before making a purchase. Go to a few stores and check out different machine models. Bring someone who sews with you and bring your own scrap fabric. Try threading the machine, changing the needle, removing and inserting the bobbin, adjusting the tension and sewing with a variety of fabrics. Keep testing out functions until you are fully convinced you have found "the one."

I often compare sewing machines to cars. Finding a machine that is just right for you is like picking the perfect car off the lot. All you need to do is know exactly what you are looking for. And that can definitely be a challenge. Follow the tips above, and you will be on your way to a smooth sewing ride. Yeehaw!


Send me your sewing machine questions below.

Dear Summer, Please Come Back

I already miss the summer heat. So, as I am contemplating my next vacation to faraway (is)lands, I automatically think of bathing suits and bikinis, what else? Then, I think vintage.
The box that sits on my desk, which is the home of my pens, has these uber stylish ladies from the 50s printed on the cover:

I'm inspired immediately. I love these suits, and they look pretty easy to make. The third one from the left is calling my name as I type.

Some more:

Pretty swanky, if I do say so myself.

The cut is so flattering to women's curves that it makes them look sophisticated and trendy at the same time.

Take a gander at this video:

I'll take one Wing Ding with a side of a Triple Threat.
Make that to-go, please.

my tumblr link

http://mssew.tumblr.com/

The Little Things

I received an email three weeks ago from a lady (let's call her Jada Pinkett Smith) who said that her sister-in-law is one of my past students (J-Lo). It turns out that J-Lo recommended my services after she had completed the cutest baby skirt for her niece with my guidance. Nothing better than a referral, right?

Jada asked if I would be available to alter a dress that she needed for an upcoming wedding. She is a bridesmaid, so you know she's gotta look extra spiffy. 

After a few emails back and forth, we agreed on a meeting time so I could scope out the dress. It was a beautiful emerald green strapless dress, pleated in the front, with an optional tie-up belt.

But Jada hated it. She didn't like the colour or the belt and definitely despised the way the dress fit on her body. She's a brand new mom and is still trying to get used to her body after giving birth. The dress was a few sizes too big and needed some serious shaping in the bodice. 

Needless to say, I got to work.

We met up again for a fitting. Jada slipped into the dress to check out the freshly tailored product. When she glanced in the mirror, a totally different dress looked back at her. She couldn't believe it. The dress accentuated her curves and brought out her confidence at the same time. I showed her how to wear the belt (tied up into a bow on the side) and I also gave her some tips on accessories. She was set.

Jada proceeded to tell me that she almost didn't want to attend the wedding because she didn't feel comfortable wearing the "old" dress. Now that she was 100% secure in her outfit, her whole mood lifted. She was ecstatic. 

I hung up the dress, zipped it up in a garment bag and handed it over to Jada. She expressed her gratitude and off she went. 

Then she came back. 

She gave me a big hug and thanked me again.   

Make it Yourself: Blouse With Denim Flowers

http://www.lovesewing.com/magazine/?p=3398

New Article

http://www.lovesewing.com/magazine/?p=3393

Let me know how you like this one!

Make it Yourself: Vacation Ready!

Gloomy days are slowly approaching. Who cares?! Make this bikini for your next vacation...or for the next trip to your (rub-a-dub) tub.


Step-by-step instructions:
http://www.lovesewing.com/magazine/?p=3382

What I'm working on at the moment

Right now, I'm in the final stages of completing a coat for a creative shoot. This was the inspiration:

Funky, huh? I love making any project from just having a picture. Sewing is my favourite part of the process...wait, did I even have to say that?....but figuring out the pattern and what I can do to make it my own takes a big (chunky) bite of the cake, too.  Choosing a different fabric or making noticeable design details takes this creation from what you see in the picture to what I see in the picture.
Stay tuned for more photos.

You

Do you dream or do you nightmare?
Are you half-full or stuffed?
Is your vision high or is it sober?
Are you colourful or are you a shade?
Do you think or do you wait?
Do you believe or do you cult?
Is your act original or is it comparable?
Are you awake or are you scuba diving?
Do you drive or do you cruise?
Do you sow or retail?
Is your reality indescribable or is it a pop star?
Are you an adventure or stepped-on snow?
Is your span on cloud 9 or at an arm's length?
Do you celebrate or regret?


Whatever. Just be.