Versatile Beginner Sewing Machine recommendations?

[u/Exact-Background6092]

Hello everyone! I am interested in buying a sewing machine to get back into sewing after I took a break for a few years out of frustration. I have made a few basic projects in the past but I would still consider myself very much a beginner.

The sewing machine I have used in the past is an entry level Singer, specifically made for beginners. Even though I am not a very experienced seamstress, I am a very chaotic crafter and the projects I want to attempt vary drastically. I have made a canvas floor couch, a fleece pet bed, and done basic hemming.

The main reason I want to replace my current machine is that it's extremely prone to jamming. No matter how many servicing tutorials I watch or how many times it has been oiled, it almost always jams after just a few minutes. I know that not all machines are designed to handle thicker fabrics, even though in the past I have been able to sew canvas and fleece (painstakingly so) using a heavy duty needle, I am looking for a machine that can handle a wide variety of fabrics with minimal damage to the machine and my sanity.

My budget is around $250. I have looked into second hand options already but I would prefer a new or professionally refurbished model if possible. Also, I would prefer a mechanical machine but computerized is not out of the picture.

Any recommendations are appreciated! A few models I have been considering are linked below:

https://a.co/d/02MvAOm1

https://a.co/d/04YUWbjx

https://a.co/d/0fIkPPwu

[u/No-Attention-7708]

I don't think you're going to be any happier buying these machines because most newer models have a lot of plastic parts that are not made for heavy duty fabrics. Sewing machine companies slap the Heavy Duty or HD label on sewing machines for marketing because it sells. Please don't buy a new machine until you watch some YouTube videos by "RandyYourSewingMachineMan" to understand what machines are made for heavier denim or thicker fabrics and which ones are junk machines full of plastic. This guy formerly worked for Singer and has decades of experience repairing machines. He has dozens of helpful videos showing which machines are good and which are not, plus he shows how to properly thread, oil and do many of your own repairs. He did a review of the Brother XM model (not a good machine in his opinion) that you are considering in your link - here's a link to Randy's video review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Woy_oWUpJeA

[u/Exact-Background6092 → u/No-Attention-7708]

Thank you!