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What is the best sewing machine to learn beginner sewing and fashion design on?

I've been researching machines and can't find the right one. I am fairly new at sewing and don't quite know what to look for. I want it to be inexpensive, durable, and portable but it's hard to find one that doesn't cost an arm and a leg. I am starting to learn sewing now to help me create actual items.
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David H.’s Answer

Sewing is a remarkably creative activity. Before you buy a machine it's always helpful to talk to some who has one, who can show you how they work and advise you on the best machine for your specific projects. If you don't know anyone with a machine, stop by the Sewin' Asylum,
at 10050 W Bell Rd, Sun City, AZ, or any other sewing machine store. Most stores will offer advice about the machine for your specific needs and allow you to sew on one. It's best to use a machine before you buy one. I see from their web page that The Sewin' Asylum has a reasonably priced class that will introduce you to the sewing machine, how to use it and especially how to maintain it. Sewing machines are somewhat complicated machines and it's best to learn the basics from someone who's used one for a while. I highly recommend taking a sewing class. In-person instruction is invaluable. If your local high school or college has a Theater Department they most likely have a Costumer on staff. Give this person a call and ask them for advice about machines and local shops that sell them. You might offer to be an intern and learn while doing. I know of no better place to learn the fabric arts than a Costume Shop. Also check out sewing machine repair shops in your area. They often have good deals on used machines. Your greatest asset will be patience and perseverance. I have a Heavy Duty Singer 4423. It's simple and serviceable. Best of Luck.
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much! I will definitely have to look into that class. The theatre department is currently on hold at my school which makes me really sad because I love the theatre. I will definitely ask my school's costumer for advice once everything starts back up again! I really miss plays and shows. Thank you so much for the advice! MJ
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Latonya’s Answer

I have a best friend who started sewing 2 years ago for personal reasons. She took a beginners sewing class and was advised at that time to get a Singer. She enjoyed working with it and still has that Singer. She is also a much better seamstress. Good luck on your venture.
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much! :) MJ
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Ariel’s Answer

Honestly go with something simple that will allow you to learn the real skills you need. I have been in the industry for 10 years and I still use my 1986 Kenmore sewing machine. It's simple so I can do minor maintenance myself and has the important elements of a straight stitch, manual button hole & zigzag. Everything else is just extra!
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much! :) MJ
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Patricia R’s Answer

MJM: David's answer sounds so helpful! I don't think I could offer anything different, but will encourage you to take a class of some kind. I don't know if you have them in Arizona, but JoAnn Fabrics & Crafts offers classes at some their stores with different levels for beginners, quilters, etc.

No one mentioned it, so I'll recommend a machine I bought about 4 years ago, and I love it.... Husqvarna Viking H Class E20 is the model name. There are some models that are lower priced and a lot that are priced higher. Mine was about $250, I think.

I like my machine; it has a few fancy stitches besides the basics, and it's easy to learn on. I've given my 9-year old granddaughter several lessons using it. Her favorite thing so far is threading the bobbin... :-)
Thank you comment icon Thank you! This was super helpful! I think there is a JoAnn within 30 minutes or so. :) MJ
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Amanda’s Answer

SINGER Stylist 7258. My sister who is an amazing seamstress learned on this machine. She recommended that I buy the same one when I wanted to learn how to use a sewing machine. It is easy to use and easy to learn on. It is great for my simple sewing projects and keeps up with my sister's advanced sewing skills. It is also less expensive than some of the other models, under $250 on Amazon. Hope this helps!
Thank you comment icon Thank you soooo much! This is super helpful! I really appreciate it. :) MJ
Thank you comment icon You’re welcome! Happy to help. :-) Amanda Wilbourn
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Demetrius’s Answer

I will second on Patricia R's answer. She is correct JoAnn Fabrics & Crafts offers classes at some their stores with different levels for beginners, quilters, etc. I have a Singer model 7442 that I have had since the early 1990's. It has about 30 different stitches and very easy to use. It has a full range of utility, decorative, quilting, heirloom, and stretch stitches. Each stitch is electronically formed and optimally set, which means every stitch is sewn with exact precision. When I bought it, it was right at $100
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Sierra’s Answer

I started off with a Kenmore machine. Now I use a brother machine which I really like.
Thank you comment icon Hi Sierra, what made that one good (or not) to start out on? What should this student consider when choosing their own starter machine? Alexandra Carpenter, Admin
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