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Where Can I Learn How To Use Sewing Machine

Discussion in 'Sewing & Stitching' started by gamma50g, Feb 19, 2021.

  1. gamma50g

    gamma50g Gold IL'ite

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    I am planning to buy a sewing machine.

    Before buying it, I want to know where can I learn how to operate one.

    I had purchased Brother computerized sewing machine earlier and saw some videos on how to sew using that machine but dint have any success. So I gave it away.

    Thanks in advance.
     
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  2. Rihana

    Rihana Moderator Staff Member IL Hall of Fame

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    Stay away from the computerized ones unless it can do something that you really need.

    1. What was the problem using the one you gave away? Did the computerized part challenge? Or were the threading and bobbin manipulation hard to do?

    2. What do you want to use the sewing machine for mainly? Straight stitching to shorten pants etc?

    3. Do you have experience using sewing machine in India?

    There are online classes. A quick search in google and yelp showed a few. But these are frankly too expensive in my opinion. Ideal would be to search for Indian women based in the U.S. who offer clothes and drapes etc alteration service. Ask one if she is willing to help you through Zoom.
     
  3. gamma50g

    gamma50g Gold IL'ite

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    1. Yes, I found it complex to use and I found it difficult to thread, bobbin etc

    2. I want to start learning how to sew using a machine and start very small first - darning and restitching.

    3. No prior experience at all in sewing machine. I have seen mom use the black singer machine and thats about it. Ive never personally used one and want to use.

    Yes, classes in person are now stopped too due to covid. Thats a good idea. I have to find someone who knows how to sew and teach me how to use my machine. Thank you!
     
  4. MalStrom

    MalStrom IL Hall of Fame

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    If you have a good independent fabric store in your area then they often offer sewing classes. They might have online offerings now.
     
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  5. Hopikrishnan

    Hopikrishnan Platinum IL'ite

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    Brother computerized sewing machines are all automatic threading. We have one at home, and for seniors, automatic threading is such a boon. And many of those are also "drop-in" bobbins. There are youtube videos of many of the models. OP needs to look for a video of specific model, and then watch it in slow motion.

    Here is one: Practice this a dozen times...



     
    Last edited: Feb 20, 2021
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  6. sanjuruby3

    sanjuruby3 Platinum IL'ite

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    OP,
    I think Brother Sewing Machines are very good. Since you are just beginner, I would not suggest to buy 200$ machine from dealer. Go with 100-150$ from Walmart or other big box stores, also, do not buy those really cheapos less than 80$ or so. It is long term investment.
    Actually, I feel, modern machines are very good, in terms of lighting, speed, less noise, smooth and button options etc, and keep fabric straight.
    Lightweight is another big advantage.

    Now also depends, your experience, and need.
    Sewing machines can be intimidating in the beginning. Too many buttons and controls.
    We all ( well most of ) come from sewing machine with 2-3 controls in india. Look at the way parents look at remote controls or new phones these days. Too many options.
    I had same problems many many years ago and infact with 0 experience, i was able to stitch straight. Even now i look at my work ( first even stitching), I am surprised, how with 0 knowledge, i was able to sew garments because computerized bother machine was v good. but soon, i got intimidated, and gave it away.
    Now I have electrical machine ( no fancy controls), and many yrs experience, my seams are crooked.

    Youtube has lot of resources but youtube can not give us patience and calm to learn...take it an slowly. Remember, a stitch at a time.
     
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  7. gamma50g

    gamma50g Gold IL'ite

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    Thanks @sanjuruby3 for taking time out to write a detailed response.

    On a lighter note, are you me? I did the same thing. Purchased a nice computerrized brother sewing machine, tried a lot to get one stitch but couldnt wind the bobbin or get the automatic needle threader to thread. Got frustrated at the end and gave it away !

    Hopefully 2nd time is the charm.
     
  8. sanjuruby3

    sanjuruby3 Platinum IL'ite

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    Yes I did same. That was more than a decade ago, i bought expensive brother ,and sewed up some stuff.. without trying on rough or waste fabrics. I dreamed to sew designed garments in a day and thought sewing is really easy
    that time, youtube resources were not that much and i did not know terms also. did not know how to thread bobbin/needle change and would call my H each time for help. Then i got frustated that i do not know anything, i spent this much money wasted, and to tell you, it is expensive hobby....fabrics, notions cost a lot. I gave it away.

    Then 5 yrs ago, i picked it up again and again, there was frustation in the beginning. It will be love and hate relationship when things go bad, stitches are not straight, machines acts up on you, and you do not know what to do,
    then in US, repairs are more expensive and hard .... finally you get it with your time.
     
    Last edited: Feb 26, 2021

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