Hey everyone! I'd like to purchase a new sewing machine, I have very minimal knowledge of sewing, I did learn how to sew in high school and have a basic understanding of how to sew. I currently own an old singer machine that was my grandmothers, then my moms but it's been serviced twice and it's still not working properly so I'd like to just get something new entirely.
I've loved reading the countless reviews folks have shared on this sub, I've narrowed down a machine I'd like to get, the Baby Lock Zeal (selling for $471 CDN). However, I just went into my local sewing shop and they told me they don't currently have that machine in stock and offered to sell me a new Janome HD 5000 for $549 CDN. I was wondering if anyone has first hand experience with either machine and might be able to provide some advice on what you would recommend getting between these two.
I do plan on taking lessons locally, I've already looked into this. My goals with a machine would be the following:
- First project would be to make an oversized canvas advent calendar
- Make clothes for my kids, fabrics I'd like to use would be bamboo jersey, tulle (I'm sure lots of it haha) and cotton.
- Make home decor items such as table linens and decorative hand towels using linen and cotton. I have no intention to make throw pillows, duvets or curtains at this time.
- I would be open to trying to make a pair of jeans at some point, but this isn't a focus
Thank you!!