Could those of you who sew link me to a good starter machine at amazon?

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My dd is 11 and has wanted to learn to use a sewing machine all her life. She has done basic straight stitches in the past as well as making some basic things.  But the Lord has provided someone to really teach her how to sew!  

 

We gave away our old hand me down machine that was nothing but trouble and so she needs a good starter machine.  She wants primarily to make her own clothes and doll clothes, so I think buttonholes and whatever is needed for zippers.  

 

I guess I'd like to spend under 150 ish ... We can always upgrade later if she really gets into it.

[dragonflyer]

I would recommend talking to her teacher about what she is willing to work with.  Brother makes several excellent beginning sewing machines.  You should be able to see on the box if it offers a button foot or a zipper foot.

These are also optional feet that can be purchased separately from the machine.

 

My best recommendation would be to surf your local community for a cheap used one.  Be sure it works, then buy any extra feet you think you will need.  The longer your daughter sews, the better idea she will have what features she wants in a mid-level machine.  Do any of the local sewing shops have one you could rent?  Any friends that would be willing to let you borrow theirs for the next 3-6 months?

 

I got into sewing using an ancient Kenmore that my mom found for free.  By the time I was ready to purchase my own, I had a very specific list of requirements I was looking for (I also knew I was not interested in an embroidery or quilting focused machine) and knew which brands offered the best quality, and which offered the most features for my money.

[Jackie]

This is the one I had when I was doing more sewing: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000JQM1DE/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

 

I gave it to my mother because I didn't use it anymore. She used to sew professionally and still finds this one to be easier to use than her other machines.

[GailV]

This is the one I had when I was doing more sewing: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000JQM1DE/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

 

I gave it to my mother because I didn't use it anymore. She used to sew professionally and still finds this one to be easier to use than her other machines.

 

That looks like one that a friend of mine got. It's the one I thought of when I saw this post!

 

I wouldn't want it as the only machine for someone who does a lot of heavy sewing, but it sure was nice for what my friend wanted it for -- learning to sew, not necessarily using it daily for years and years.  The buttonholes were really nice, and so easy!

[treasuremapper]

I suggest you look for something with a drop in bobbin.  Unless you can't resist the adorable, fun Janome sewing machines (like hello kitty).

[Clear Creek]

We gave my daughter this one for Christmas, and she is doing very well with it. It was very easy for her to learn how to use, and does everything that the most common patterns require (zippers, buttonholes, etc.).

[Homeschoolmom3]

I am a Janome fan, but given her age I think any would be okay.  I began with a Singer back in the day and it worked very well for many years for doing basic stuff.  I would check around with sales if there is a sewing place near you, you can always talk them down a bit.  I am glad I bought mine from a store locally in case I had problems or needed it fixed.  Something to consider, and they also need to oiled, cleaned every year or so depending on how much you sew.  If one doesn't sew that much it can extend a little longer.  HTH  :)