I took the sewing machine that was given to me in to get tuned up. The repairman called and said it needed a lot of work and that it would cost around $250-$300. For an old sewing machine that I didn’t like all that much, it was too much money. So I let them keep it for whatever parts they could salvage from it. I don’t sew a lot, but it is a tool that I’d like to have. So I’ve been researching sewing machines.

One thing that I did was look at the type of sewing that I do. I have never used any stitch except a straight stitch. When I was looking at a bunch of home machines, they all bragged about having 50 or 100 different stitches. This is not a selling point for me. I’ve also never made an article of clothing in my life. I’m trying to remember if I ever repaired one and I’m not sure that I have. What have I made? Quilts and curtains. What would I like to make? More quilts and curtains. But also, bags and tablecloths. I’d also like to be able to work with leather. It would be nice to be able to make a leather bag or a leather book cover. And in the far future, I could see me trying upholstery. So I want to get a sewing machine that can handle thicker fabric.

After googling around a bit, I think I want an industrial machine. You can get those that run on regular power in your house, which is what I’d like. A lot of them come with a large table, which would be fine. I don’t need a portable machine. I’m leaning toward a Juki machine because they seem to be really good and there are a bunch of very old ones still in use. I was looking on Craigslist and found a couple of used ones. And then I also looked up new ones, which don’t seem to cost that much more. Plus, there’s a distributor in town who will give you a free hour tutorial on any machine that you buy from them. I think that would be a great idea, since I’m pretty much self-taught on sewing machines. I’m sure there are some basics that I just don’t know.

For now, I’ve set up an alert on Craigslist to let me know anytime someone posts a Juki. If I find a really good deal, perhaps I’ll get a used one. Otherwise, I’ll save up my money and look into a new one.