Sewing Machines

Picking a sewing machine

You don't need an expensive machine to make a dress. You need one that sews a straight line, a zigzag and a buttonhole without fighting you.

What it needs

• Straight and zigzag stitch. Straight for seams, zigzag for finishing edges and for stretchy fabric.
• A one-step buttonhole. Four-step buttonholes work, but one-step is far less fiddly.
• Adjustable stitch length and width. You'll lengthen the stitch for gathering and basting.
• A metal frame inside, if you can find it in your budget. It keeps the machine steady on thicker seams.
• A free arm. The end slides off so you can sew sleeves and hems in a loop.

What you can skip

• Hundreds of decorative stitches. You'll use about four.
• Embroidery modes, unless embroidery is the point.
• A serger, at first. It gives a neat store-bought edge, but a zigzag does the job while you're learning.

Mechanical or computerized?

Mechanical machines (dials and knobs) are simpler and easier to repair. Computerized ones (buttons and a screen) add conveniences like needle up/down and a speed limit, which beginners often like. Either makes a fine dress.

Whatever you buy, read the manual's threading diagram twice. Most "my machine is broken" moments are threading.

Where to look

Three long-running machines that sewing teachers keep pointing beginners to:

• Janome 2212: simple, mechanical and sturdy, the one to get if you want fewer buttons
• Brother CS7000X: computerized, light, with a one-step buttonhole and a needle threader
• Singer 4423 Heavy Duty, if you'll sew denim or canvas too
• Spares you'll want soon: Schmetz universal needles and extra bobbins (check they match your machine's class)

Read the most recent reviews rather than the star average, and check the warranty. A used machine from a sewing shop that services it is also a great option.