Hi All!
I'm new to sewing, started about a month ago but have become hooked! A family member gave me their old Singer 4830c sewing machine, we took it to a shop and got it serviced for about $100 to make it work like new. It's been working great for the projects I've done so far. I've done pillow cases for our furniture, a welted box bench cushion for our kitchen, and am currently mid-project for a cat bed and dog bed for our critters. I seem to work more with a bit heavier fabric, like for the furniture, and would like to start getting into men's clothing as well.
Pics of the Kitchen Bench Cushion:
I was recently in a Joann store today here in the US and noticed that their new sewing machines are starting to get discounted as they liquidate. I saw some machines that were 40% off, and I suspect as the weeks go on they might get lower. I'm wondering if I'd get any benefit in looking at a newer machine or if the one I have currently will suit me fine?
Things I've noticed in watching Youtube videos of others that makes me wonder:
- Some users machines seem much faster than mine when doing straight stretches of sewing at a time
- Machines seem quieter than mine
- Newer features like automatic needle threading?
- I really like the plastic bobbin case cover that lets you see how much thread is left on the bobbin, as well as how some machines have actual measurements for seam allowance.
I've seen a lot of disdain for the newer Singer machines and don't really know much about other brands, so I'm hesitant in general. A lot of the things I've noted about newer machines don't really negate my current machine experience, they just seem like maybe nice-to-haves, so I'm not sure if the value would be there in getting a newer machine or not. I did already get a low shank presser foot adapter so I could use modern presser feet and have bought a few, as well as replaced the light bulb with an LED bulb and also got the LED strip that you can adhere to the machine for more lighting. I'm game for any other tips on renovating the old one just as much as suggestions about new one.
Reaching out in this community to see if anyone has thoughts on the newer machines and thinks I might appreciate the updates or if the old 4830c should last me a good long while?
Thanks!
Cat-ouflauged