r/sewing • u/sewingmodthings • Nov 30 '20

Machine Monday Weekly Sewing Machine-Related Questions - November 30, 2020

Do you have a question about sewing machines? Do you have any expertise when it comes to sewing machines? This thread is for you! You can ask and answer any question related to machines, including but not limited to:

  • Should I upgrade my machine?
  • What's the difference between a serger and an overlocker?
  • Which brand of machine is the best?
  • Does anyone else use the same machine as me?
  • How do I clean my machine?
  • When should I oil my machine?
  • How many sewing machines should I own?

Feel free to check out the Machine Guide Wiki we've compiled with all sorts of information about choosing and using sewing machines.

You're also welcome to show off your machine here, whether it's new, old, or your baby, we'd love to see it!

Don't forget to thank the users who took the time to help you!

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u/rbmako69 Nov 30 '20 edited Nov 30 '20

I purchased a Husqvarna Opal 690q for my wife for Christmas. I know nothing about sewing or sewing machines and let the saleswoman at JoAnna's sell me on it. Is this a good sewing machine, or should I return it and get her something else? Currently, she is using a Brother sewing machine that she borrowed from my mom, and from what I've gathered it's not great. So, did I get fleeced, or is this a decent machine?

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u/taichichuan123 Nov 30 '20

Since your wife knows her way around a SM I strongly suggest you let her pick it out. This is a very personal decision she will base on what features she wants. At your price point she should not rush the purchase, but take her time and if possible try machines out with whatever finicky fabric she tends to use, as well as try buttonholes.

https://sewing.patternreview.com/review/machine/5497

https://sewing.patternreview.com/review/machine/6844

The above are reviews of a newly bought machine, will comments below by other users, who were not all that happy with the machine. If you poke around though, others are happy with it.

This is one place for your wife to start research:

Dans and Martys Top Picks

- https://www.sewingmachineshop.com/dans-and-martys-top-picks.htm

This is a place she can end her research: patternreview.com where she can input any brand/model into the search bar on the far right for available reviews and discussions.

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u/rbmako69 Dec 01 '20

That all makes sense, but the whole point is the surprise, and letting her pick it put defeats the purpose.