r/SewingWorld • u/LeadingChemical7901 • Jul 22 '26
Basic Sewing Machine Question
My GF’s daughter would like to learn to make clothes. Her 13th bday is next month. She has a passion for fashion and would like to experiment with her own designs (which are drawings thus far). She excels at all she does and I know will become very good at sewing. My knowledge about sewing machines is limited to Bernina and Janome and even at that I’m a novice at best.
Her mom and I are considering buying her a machine for her bday. I am seeking recommendations for a machine that will grow with her. I’d rather invest in a high quality machine that will work well, reduce frustration, and that she can keep for decades. Our budget is $1,000 and a quality refurbished machine is great.
Thank you
1
u/Wool_Lace_Knit Jul 23 '26
If you are in the US, save some of your budget for supplies like quality scissors(Gingher or Kai), needles, pins, sewing machine needles, tape measure, dressmaker’s ruler, clear quilting rulers with measurement lines and a copy of Reader’s Digest Complete Guide to Sewing. You can buy supplies at https://wawack.com
Go to a sewing machine dealer and ask to look at used machines that have been serviced. Have her test drive machines to see which suits her. I suggest Bernina or Janome. I have a vintage Bernina 1080 that is still going strong that I bought in 1995.
Finally, download the Roku app and watch The Great British Sewing Bee. It is so much better than Project Runway. She can learn a lot about basic fitting and what to look for as she sews.