This post is designed to contribute to Sew, Mama, Sew!'s Sewing Machine Meme.
I have a Janome Decor Computer 3050, that I have affectionately named Martha. I got her for Christmas last year after teaching myself to sew using my mother's 1970s Elna, which I used to create aprons for people's Christmas presents. As she was a Christmas gift I am not exactly sure of the cost, but I suspect it was somewhere between AUD$600-700.
I am still very much a beginner sewer, and I am loving this machine. So far I have used it for cushion covers, plastic bag holders, some basic patchwork and clothing alterations. I am working up to dress making, more sophisticated home decor design and production and more elaborate patchwork. I have complete confidence in this machine to take me there, and have been nothing but impressed so far. I do not sew as much as I would like - finding time is a big a problem, but when I do it is for long and fairly intensive sessions.
What do I love about this machine? It is ridiculously easy to use. In fact, it makes the physical act of sewing almost boring because it is so straight forward. To make a button hole, I plonk the button in the foot, select a button-hole stitch, put my foot on the peddle and it just happens. Blows. My. Mind. I also totally adore the overedging stitch, which I bought the fancy foot for that makes it even easier. And changing feet - easy as! I have to confess that as a beginner sewer the concept of thread tension confuses and overwhelms me. The fact that this machine has an automatic tension setting removes a fair bit of anxiety. There are many more little things that make this machine fabulous, and as I learn to sew more complex items, I continue to be pleasantly surprised. It is certainly a step up from my mother's Elna!
I would definitely recommend this machine to other beginners, it is so easy to use the idea of 'sewing' becomes much less scary. When I make people things I almost feel bad taking credit for them because the machine makes it so easy - anyone could do it!
Although I am aware that this is a more expensive machine so it might not be accessible to everyone. When looking for a machine you really need to think about what you want to use it for, and how long you want to use it for. This machine was bought for me, but I have to confess it is exactly what I would've bought for myself. I can definitely say - try before buying! The people at the specialist shops are so friendly and helpful, and will probably let you have a play on the machines. Longevity is very important for me, I see sewing as a skill that I will use throughout my life, so I want a machine that will last! By all accounts I should get 10 - 15 years out of this machine, so I am pretty happy with that.
With any luck, Martha and I will be together for many years to come.
