Sewing 102 - What type of Sewing Machine should I get?
Updated: Jan 30
What type of sewing machine should you get as beginner? You need to ask yourself the following questions in order to decide
What are you going to be sewing? garments, leather, upholstery, quilts etc.
Are you sewing for personal and commercial purposes?
What is your budget?
There are Four main types you can get, depending on your budget and your needs.
Vintage style Mechanical/Treadle Machine with/without external motor
This is the classic sewing machine with no frills and thrills. Cost - from N34000 to N50000
Features
One solid metal outer body
All mechanical parts inside
Bobbin winder
Stitch length regulator
Reverse sewing
Straight stitch only
Has a side loading bobbin
Table with pedal
Long and high throat space
Pros
Does not need electricity
Versatile, can use foot pedal/motor/handcrank
Can sew for long hours
Large working surface
Changeable presser feet
Accessories are easy to find
Low cost
Durable
Easy to maintain and repair
Very quiet
Cons
NO automatic features
Tension must be set manually
Heavy, not very portable
Lamp and motor must be bought separately * (Sometimes)
Electrical/Mechanical/Table top Machine with internal motor
This is a light weight portable electrical machine with mechanical parts, Cost - from N34000 to N44000
Features
Plastic outer body with metal interior frame
Mechanical and electrical parts inside
Internal motor
Bobbin winder
Stitch length /width regulator
Straight /zigzag stitches only
May have a side loading bobbin or a top loading bobbin
Free arm
Small working surface
Pros
Light and portable
Tension settings change at the turn of a dial
Changeable presser feet
Accessories are easy to find
Easy to maintain and service
Low power consumption
Cons
May struggle with thick fabrics
Limited speed
Can not sew for long hours
Electronic / Computerised Sewing Machine
This is the modern digital version the sewing machine. Cost from N120000 - N350000