Sewing Patterns & Supplies

What sewing machine should I get?

I would like one that will be durable, not be overly basic, has a fair amount of accessories/extras and also not one made for extreme experts.
I have been wanting to get a decent sewing machine for a while now, and my birthday is coming up so I am doing some research so I can know what is best for me to ask for.

I think the best machine is the best machine that you can afford. It's going to be a personal choice - my best brand may not necessarily fit your needs or desires - I could recommend a Fiat when all you want is a Ford Focus....

I personally own a Kenmore because it is what I could afford at the time. It is a real workhorse, and has rarely let me down. I also own a Babylock, much nicer machine, but doesn't seem to be capable of going through really thick layers. I have a Brother combo embroidery machine, that can sew through multiple layers of windproof polarfleece that no other machine in my house could get through, but is rarely used as a sewing machine. When it is, it is a great little machine, but it cost more than some used cars, so I can't outright recommend it to someone who is just starting out.

A few questions to ask yourself when you are looking:
*Do you want a mechanical or a computerized machine?
*Do you feel comfortable with purchasing out of retail store like walmart or sears, or do you want the personalized service and maintenance of a sewing machine store?
*With the multitude of features, are you going to go with what you really want or just what you need?

If possible, test drive before you plunk down your cash. Bring samples of different types of fabrics and check out how the machine handles them.

Don't rule out the used machines at the sewing machine stores - they were turned in because someone upgraded and most likely cared for them well. You could easily get more machine for your money this way.

I recommend you look at patternreview.com after you narrow your choices down. Also, about.com has input from readers on their machines.

Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Sewing and Fabric Crafts: Basic Techniques for Sewing, Applique, Embroidery, Quilting, Dyeing, and Printing, plus 150 Inspired Projects from A to Z $18.70 random house potter craft books encyclopedia of sewing and fabric crafts. a treasury of techniques projects ideas and inspiration for sewing and fabric crafting from martha stewart. learn basic techniques for sewing applique embroidery quilting dyeing and printing. also includes 150 inspired projects from a to z and a cd featuring print at home patterns and templates. hardcover 400 pages. imported...

Amy Butler's In Stitches: More Than 25 Simple and Stylish Sewing Projects $9.66 Celebrated designer Amy Butler brings her fresh modern style to the timeless craft of sewing. In this lavishly collection of patterns she presents more than 25 charming projects ranging from cushy floor cushions to smart aprons to stylish handbags. [Spiral-bound] Hachette Book Group...

The Sewing Book $39.74 This is the only sewing book you'll ever need. Every tool and every technique you require for making your own home furnishings or clothing is closely and sharply photographed, carefully annotated, and clearly explained. The Tools section begins with the basic toolkit, opening up into everything you could possibly need – every type of cutting tool and machine foot is shown. This section also ...