Remember when Coronavirus (COVID-19) first hit and it was nearly impossible to find a mask? Suddenly, friends and family members with sewing machines were there to save the day, making masks from t-shirts, bedsheets and scraps of fabric leftover from other projects. It was truly something!
Whether you were already an aficionado or time at home led you to try something new, a sewing machine is an essential piece of the puzzle when it comes to sewing as a hobby (or business!). Below is a quick buyer’s guide, as well as our financing tips to help you get sewing.
Let’s start with the basics; there are essentially three types of sewing machines:1
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- Mechanical — Sometimes considered beginner machines, these basic sewing machines tend to cost less than other types, have fewer features and are typically manipulated by hand. These are low-maintenance machines that can last years.
- Electronic — These machines are lightweight and portable, support a variety of materials, and come equipped with multiple stitch types and features like an LED screen and advanced controls.
- Computerized — The most expensive and expansive option, these machines are built for experienced sewists. While not portable due to their size and weight, computerized machines can automate several sewing processes and can even be connected to the internet or a software to produce professional-quality projects.
When planning your purchase, consider not only your needs and skill level, but whether you plan to transport your machine to sewing classes or get-togethers. In addition, you don’t want to overwhelm yourself (and your budget) with a top-of-the-line machine you don’t know how to use, but you may not want to settle for an inexpensive machine if you’ll need to upgrade once you improve your skills and take on additional projects.
Remember, do your research, always buy from a reputable retailer — many offer lessons and repairs — and don’t forget to ask about the warranty.2
Many manufacturers and retailers offer financing solutions to help meet your needs and budget — including Synchrony partners. In addition to hassle-free applications and quick credit decisions, you may find multiple promotional financing options, all with convenient monthly payments. Options may include:
To help you make the best decision for your needs, we’ve simplified the process of comparing promotional financing offers with our Payment Calculator, where you can compare promotional financing options that might be available with the Sewing & More credit card.. If you’re in the market for a sewing machine, give it a try and easily compare financing offers.