Buying a Used Sewing Machine ? (7 factors to consider)

All of us go through a phase in life when we need something and cannot afford it – it happens to even millionaires. So what to say of us ordinary people who sometimes have to compromise?

I know very well that all homes need a sewing machine. If you cannot afford it, do not yet worry.

You may not have to compromise on the quality of your sewing. Many folks are looking to sell their perfectly working sewing machines. So many reasons

• maybe they are shifting abroad, or
• they want the latest model, or
• they have sworn off sewing ( can’t imagine why ), or
• they cannot sew anymore due to old age.

Whatever it is, you can buy a sound machine at an affordable price. Or till you have mastered sewing and are confident enough to buy the best and latest you can buy.

Why used sewing machines?

It is better to buy a used machine in good condition than buy a bottom-end-of-the-range machine available today at cheap prices. Just try stitching the hem of the jeans in one of these machines, and you will know.

When buying a used machine, you can afford a better model than a new one.  

Another good thing about buying a used machine is recycling an old machine that may have gone to the dump yard. The manufacturer would pollute the environment with one sewing machine less with your buy.

Do you feel good about your choice now?

Even if you plan to sew every spare moment or once a month or year, you need a machine which will be easy to maintain, easy to operate and easy on the eye

A reliable machine which will sew a straight stitch in different stitch lengths and additionally some other utility stitches too and comply with the 2 main considerations when looking for an old machine – PRICE and AGE.

If you search correctly, you will get a very good used sewing machine that does all that.

After you get your machine home, you want to avoid finding out that the beautiful vintage machine you have fallen in love with does not come with the necessary bobbin winder or does not have needles available in the market.

There are some things to watch out for when buying a used sewing machine. Let us check it out.  

Where to buy a used sewing machine

• Ask your friends, neighbors, and relatives. They may have been waiting for someone to ask them about their old sewing machine gathering dust in their garage.
• Ask all the sewing repair shops nearby. If I have a machine to sell, I would first inform my local repair guy.
• Look in the newspaper local section. You may find one advertised. You may have to be on watch for sometime to be lucky.
• Check online marketplaces.
• Local thrift shops. 
• Put up a wanted notice ‘ Used Sewing Machine wanted – in good working condition. Phone no’ in the local coffee shop bulletin board.
• If anyone of your acquaintances know of an elderly sewing enthusiast who is now too old to sew, nothing like it. I bet they have maintained their sewing machine with utmost care.

Some important things to consider when buying a used sewing machine

The post on How to choose a beginner sewing machine is relevant when buying a used sewing machine too. Check out the post on the top 7 sewing machine brands as well 

Do not fall for the tall claims of the buyer without any proof. Unless you have sewn four layers of upholstery materials on the machine, do not believe claims of UPHOLSTERY MACHINE.

Industrial Machine is one such claim people use on unwary beginner sewists. Know the difference between industrial and domestic sewing machines – verify that all those points are checked. Otherwise, you may pay more for a heavy metal ordinary machine, thinking it is of industrial capacity.

Buy a branded sewing machine. There are no two ways about it. Bernina, and Singer, are trusted brand names, and there is only so much that could go wrong with them. But remember to do due diligence, of course. Even trusted and branded machines wear after heavy use and abuse.

Also each brand has a set of advantages and disadvantages. Ease of use, availability of accessories are important things to look for in reviews. 

Metal is always better than plastic. But that does not mean that all heavyweight metal machines are good. Don’t make me remember my old machine. Some of them are so clunky and frustrating. Stitching before buying or taking someone who knows stitching with you is a very good idea.

• Be prepared to bargain. Most of the used sewing machines are listed way over priced. You will have to be careful that you donot pay more than the machine deserves.
• When you are going to check it out in person take a piece of fabric (cotton) to try the stitching. Ensure the machine is giving EVEN STITCHES.The utility stitches like straight stitch, zig zag stitch are ones we use frequently, so try to stitch them on the cloth you have.
• Ensure that it has a light bulb. Also that it is not making any tangles in the stitches.
  Ensure that the machine does not have any big cracks. Take your spectacles when you go or even a magnifying glass. Small cracks may be hidden well, but they may catch and tear your fabric when sewing. Big ones may mean damage to the interior as well.

Checkout for noisy motor when operating. Ensure that the feed dogs move the fabric forward properly without snags. Also, watch out for irregular movements of the needle with a loud noise.

• If you find a sewing machine with the original cover and case intact, it may be a sign that the owner has cared for the machine enough to preserve the packages. Another best thing is to have a service manual available. It is a must-have for all sewists. 

Small problems in a used machine can be fixed but major repairs can prove costly.

Checkout the post on Trouble shooting common sewing machine problems for solutions for small problems that arise when sewing.

Whatever you find in your quest, take it to your trusted repair man for a look. Even a small irregularity can mar your sewing experience. Repair it before it becomes a big problem.

Happy sewing

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