Scrapbooking Machines
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anybody sew? Could you give me an overview of the main differences in sewing machines?
I scrapbook, knit, crochet, even make origami… But I have never used a sewing machine. I recently decided I am going to learn to sew and in turn I can use the machine for Scrapbooking Projects etc. However, I have no idea what features I am looking for. There are so many different makes and models and features. Can someone just school me on the basics? I’d really appreciate it!
http://www.cet.com/~pennys/faq/smfaq.htm
What I want for beginners in sewing:
- a machine that doesn’t scare you
- a machine that isn’t balky (cheap new machines are often very
balky or need adjustments often and are rarely repairable –
just too frustrating to learn on!)
- very good straight stitch
- good zigzag (4-5 mm is fine, more than that is gravy)
- a method of making buttonholes that makes sense to you
- adjustable presser foot pressure (which helps some fabric
handling issues)
- accessory presser feet that don’t cost an arm and a leg
(machines that use a “short shank foot” typically handle
generic presser feet pretty well. Some brands of machines use
proprietary or very expensive presser feet)
If the budget stretches far enough:
- blindhem and stretch blindhem stitches
- triple zigzag (nice for elastic applications)
- a couple of decorative stitches (you won’t use them nearly as
much as you think)
- electronic machine because of the needle position control and
because the stepper motors give you full “punching force” at
slow sewing speeds — mechanical machines often will stall at
slow speeds.
Please go to the best sewing machine dealers around and ask them
to show you some machines in your price range, *especially* used
machines you can afford. You’ll get a far better machine buying
used than new, and a good dealer is worth their weight in sewing
machine needles when you get a machine problem — often they can
talk you through the problem over the phone. While you’re trying
things out, try a couple of machines (sewing only, not combo
sewing-embroidery) over your price limit, just so you can see
what the difference in stitch quality and ease of use might be.
You may find you want to go for the used Cadillac. Or you might
want the new basic Chevy. Might as well try both out.
Suggested reading: John Giordano’s The Sewing Machine Book
(especially for used machines), Carol Ahles’ Fine Machine Sewing
(especially the first and last few chapters) and Gale Grigg
Hazen’s Owner’s Guide to Sewing Machines, Sergers and Knitting
Machines. All of these are likely to be available at your public
library.
Used brands I’d particularly look for: Elna, Bernina,
Viking/Husqvarna, Pfaff, Singer (pre 1970), Juki, Toyota
New “bargain brand” I’d probably pick, if new was my choice:
Janome (who also does Kenmore).
If you get the BYU channel, look for Martha’s Sewing Room. Martha Pullen often has a sewing/scrapbook segment. The machines used on that show are of the $3K+ variety, but it can give you an idea of what sort of effects are possible.
Which Scrapbook Die Cutting Machine is Right for You PART 2
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Scotch Thermal Laminator 2 Roller System (TL901) $23.25 Scotch Thermal Laminator TL901 will laminate items up to 9 inches wide. It features a two roller system that has two temperature settings. It can be used for photographs, documents, recipes and much more. This laminator will laminate items up to 5mil thick, including popular 3mil and 5mil pouches. Businesses and families can always find a use for a laminator that is built with 3M quality and durab… |
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Scotch Thermal Laminator Combo Pack, Includes 20 Laminating Sheets, 9 Inches x 11.4 Inches (TL901SC) $27.31 Scotch(TM) Thermal Laminator protects documents you handle frequently. This thermal laminator that will laminate items up to 9 Inches wide. It is a 2 roller system that has two temperature settings. It is photo quality and will laminate up to 5 mil thickness pouches. This is a thermal laminator combo pack. The package contains one laminator that will laminate items up to 9 Inches wide, plus 20 ea … |
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