Unison Feed or Needle Feed Reddit
I've read a ton of reviews on Reddit and Pattern Review and I'm still struggling to decide on what machine will be best for me. I got my first sewing machine as gift around 10 years ago. It's a Singer Traditional but I had a ton of issues with the stitches, and the last time I used it was around 4 years ago (before I moved for school). I was trying to make a tote and it's never been the same. I'm now back at home and I'm planning on converting my cats' room into a sewing/craft/office space so that I have an area to work on my hobbies. A few weeks ago, I started sewing again but I ended up needing to borrow my grandma's sewing machine to finish my projects. I'm planning on primarily sewing garments (long dresses, skirts, pants, baby clothing, etc…) but I'd love to start quilting one day.
I am a little concerned that since I don't have a fully functional backup machine for button-holes and zig zag stitches (I don't sew knits so not sure how important this will be) that I might be losing out on an important function.
In my research process, I've determined that nice to have features include: auto-threading, auto cutting, knee lift for the presser foot, needle up/down beforehand. None of these are necessarily deal-breakers if I don't have them (I can get a stitch to work right now for like 2 mins so anything is an upgrade). I don't really need a ton of decorative stitches either so I think some of the newer models might be overkill.
I've also narrowed down my brand options to Juki and Janome (not sure if I can justify the price for Bernina/Bernette at this point in time).
Juki
It's been fairly challenging to locate any dealers in Toronto that sell new sewing machines, the closest option for new Juki machines is in Winnipeg. In the secondhand realm I've managed to find a few options that might work for me.
-
Juki DDL 8700 (used is $540 CAD and new is $900 CAD): this is from a machine repair/tailoring supply store, the used model was serviced. The average used 8700 is around $700-1000 and not serviced, so this option is a strong contender. They also have other models like 9000B, 7000A-7, 8100-7, 555. It's a little overwhelming actually but it's only 30 mins away so I can check it out. I found another mechanic/dealer but they import Juki and said that the model numbers are printed as SK8700 vs DDL8700 (I think they probably are getting them from the same factory and they aren't "official" Juki, I don't know if I'll enquire more)
-
Juki TL2000Qi: this is listed as open box and in brand new condition, this seems like a semi-industrial machine. I like that it has the option to be more portable (not really planning on taking it anywhere though) but I do wonder if the lack of speed control will be an issue. My day to day job involves using a foot pedal all day, so hopefully my ability to control the speed will transfer over to an industrial machine
-
Juki F series: I can find the F300 for around $950 CAD and the F600 for $1100 CAD (13% taxes not included). The F series actually prompted my research into Juki models, I had no clue that you could have so many options on a computerised machine. There are absolutely not used models that I can find in Toronto, I mostly see industrial machines here. The cost is my main source of hesitation, it seems like a bit of a splurge and I don't really need 100+ stitch options. I do know that this line is very highly recommended on Reddit and on Pattern Reviews.
-
Juki DX7 ($1400 CAD new, 13% taxes not included): this seems very similar to the F series, with maybe a couple more options.
Janome
Janome is very popular in Toronto, most of the sewing machine shops that I've researched have Janome in stock. I am a little baffled by the massive variety and differences in options. I've been looking at the HD3000 and the Skyline models, I'm still working out the prices and differences for these.
Final thoughts
I'm excited to get started on more projects, it's been frustrating to work on very slow machines that struggle to get over seams or even stitch in an even line. I like the idea of buying from a place that does repairs (for future maintenance). I'll only be able to get the computerised options from online retailers, so warranty may be an issue but the machines will be new.
My last project, I just love the print
This was my first project after many many years, I learned a lot about fundamentals in the process.
Source: https://www.reddit.com/r/sewing/comments/v99g4a/help_choosing_a_sewing_machine_why_are_jukis_so/
0 Response to "Unison Feed or Needle Feed Reddit"
Post a Comment