Hello, a consumer report gave the following as "most machine for the money" however with your wanting to do heavier materials you may just want to advertise you are looking for a clean,kindly used Singer sewing machine that can handle jeans and includes manuals and parts.)
Somewhere there is one waiting for you.
Here is the one near your price range:
Kenmore makes perhaps the largest selection of mechanical machines. The very cheapest Kenmore sewing machines, like the Kenmore Mini (*est. $100) and Kenmore 15208 (*est. $120), stick with a four-step buttonhole, and have just six and eight stitches, respectively. The Kenmore 15212 (*est. $150) and Kenmore 15218 (*est. $170) both have a one-step buttonhole. The cheaper Kenmore 15212 has 12 stitches. The slightly more expensive model has 18 stitches, including a smocking stitch, overcast and elastic stretch stitch in addition to the basics. Both Kenmore sewing machines are good, basic models, say reviews. Both have just a 90-day warranty, however. Bear in mind that Kenmore sewing machines are made by different Asian companies each year, resulting in varying degrees of quality; this also explains the low prices. Some users report difficulty with tension and light fabrics.
FROM WALMART @ $196.74
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Brother 60 Stitch Computerized Sewing Machine, CS-6000i
Brother model CS-6000i computerized sewing machine features LCD screen for stitch selection.
Many other desirable features including a wide variety of built-in utility, decorative and heirloom stitches each with multiple stitch functions.
The CS6000i offers maximum flexibility to express your creativity for garment construction, quilting, decorative, and heirloom sewing.
Also features 7 styles of 1-step auto-size buttonholes, super-wide 7mm zigzag and decorative stitches, quick-set drop-in bobbin and sewing surface easily convertible from traditional flat bed to free arm for sewing cuffs and sleeves.
One-touch start/stop/reverse operations allow sewing with or without the included foot control. Bonus accessories included as described below.
xperts say to shoot for in a sewing machine. The models in ConsumerSearch Fast Answers meet most if not all of these considerations.- Solid construction. The machine should have a good weight, operate quietly and not vibrate off the table. It shouldn't rattle or have pieces that can be easily snapped off. Make sure hinges, levers and buttons feel strong. When stitching, the machine should vibrate or 'walk' across the table.
- Look for a one-step buttonhole. In reviews, experts greatly prefer a one-step buttonhole, and most machines include a special foot that creates correctly sized, uniform buttonholes.
- Warranty and service. The industry average is 20 years mechanical, 2 years electrical and 1 year labor. Make sure your dealer answers your questions and is willing to make minor adjustments without a fuss. If you buy your unit from a discounter, find out where the machine needs to go for service and whom you can call with questions. Some inexpensive machines, like those from Kenmore, have only a 90-day warranty. Sewing machines have only limited availability online, and the few stores that do sell machines online may void the manufacturer's warranty by doing so. Be sure to ask about a substitute warranty.
- A clear explanation of hidden costs. Top-of-the-line machines offer a wide variety of options, such as software, embroidery cards and additional attachments. Be certain what is and is not included in the purchase price.
- Other basic features include easy bobbin winding, droppable feed dogs, a variety of needle positions and adjustable stitch width and length. Also, be sure to get a enough stitches. A straight stitch, zip, blind hem and buttonhole (or satin stitch) are standard, but you'll also want a stretch stitch and at least a few decorative stitches.
In nearly every review we found, the relationship with your dealer is cited as a more important consideration than price.
Hope this helps!
Edited by Don4u on May 21 2006 at 5:02pm
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