blueeyesdesigns
Active Member
[ Preface: I am a TD/PM and the last person on Earth you want using your sewing machine. But it's my job to help coordinate equipment purchases, and I'm game, but completely ignorant to the to magic of costume construction. ]
I've been given a decent ($2000) budget to purchase a new sewing machine for our costume shop. I know that we already have a few basic machines, including a serger, that are in good shape. I'm under the impression that the best addition to the shop might be a machine that's capable of working with heavier materials, i.e. a couple layers of heavy materials for a period costume, or mending soft goods, etc. I'm at an educational institution, but most of our costume work is done by a pro (who I have also reached out to) and the occasional well-supervised volunteer.
Problem is, I have no idea which brands/models would be a solid investment. I would love to know if this wonderful community has any recommendations of where to look? Brands? Features to look for or avoid? Who's got the best warranties/customer service?
I've been given a decent ($2000) budget to purchase a new sewing machine for our costume shop. I know that we already have a few basic machines, including a serger, that are in good shape. I'm under the impression that the best addition to the shop might be a machine that's capable of working with heavier materials, i.e. a couple layers of heavy materials for a period costume, or mending soft goods, etc. I'm at an educational institution, but most of our costume work is done by a pro (who I have also reached out to) and the occasional well-supervised volunteer.
Problem is, I have no idea which brands/models would be a solid investment. I would love to know if this wonderful community has any recommendations of where to look? Brands? Features to look for or avoid? Who's got the best warranties/customer service?