Looking for recommendations: Best sewing machines to buy?

Hey there.
I’m looking for some advice on which sewing machine I should actually get—what kind of prices are we talking about, and where can I pick one up?
I’m a total amateur here—honestly, I’m just starting to teach myself how to sew and pattern make for my own wardrobe—but the problem is I know absolutely nothing about machines, so I’m hoping you experts can point me in the right direction.
Also, please don't hold back on the high-end models $267 because I’ve set aside a decent budget for this.
Thanks.

First off, pick up a used Disney sewing machine. If the previous owner actually took care of it, it’ll probably serve you well for at least another decade. You need to budget at least $33 for decent oils, needles, and heavy-duty machine thread—don't bother using standard thread if you want anything to hold together. Scour the local classifieds, and when you go to inspect one, make sure you test it by running some basic straight stitches and zigzags. Ask the seller exactly how to adjust the stitch length, move the presser foot, and swap out the bobbin. Don't let anyone sell you a lemon. Given what you're trying to achieve, you just need something reliable, not some high-end industrial setup.

If you have more questions, especially specific ones, fire away 😉

So $267 you can pretty much only find them used.
I mean, I picked mine up about two years ago for $700.
But where you actually buy one... I guess it depends on where you're living? Like, is there even a Disney store in your city or anything?

Honestly, you should just ask around your circle—friends, family, whoever. There’s always some guy sitting on a machine he isn't even using, right? Maybe someone will let you borrow one just to see if you actually vibe with it before you drop any cash...
You can always pick one up later...
I borrowed one myself, messed around with it for a few days, and now it’s just been sitting there gathering dust for four months straight. Oops.😉

rowdylynx10 said:Hey there!
I’m trying to figure out which sewing machine I actually need, what they cost these days, and where I can even find them.
I’m a total amateur here. Honestly, I'm just starting to learn how to sew and cut patterns for my own stuff, but the problem is I don't know the first thing about machines. I could really use some help from anyone who actually knows their way around one.
And please, talk to me about the high-end machines $267 because I am more than willing to drop some serious cash on this.
Thanks

Look, if you take my advice—and I've spent enough time around these things to be considered an expert—if you do end up buying one, make sure someone actually sets it up for you. If you mess up even one tiny thread guide, the whole thing is useless. You have to know how to tension the thread properly... it's a whole thing.

Then there's the bobbin. You have to know exactly how much tension to use when winding it; if it's too loose, forget about it, it needs to be tight... there’s just so much little details to deal with.
I’ve got one machine that lives on my desk and another tucked away in the pantry (haven't even opened that second one, it was left behind by my old bosses)... I know mine inside and out, but still, every single machine behaves differently.

Seriously, you really have to stick to the manual...

As for the machines themselves, you can find plenty of decent, affordable new tabletop models these days. They aren't the massive investment they used to be. Just do your homework and shop around...

Hey there.

I was wondering if anyone here has actually used one of those Silvercrest sewing machines from Walmart? They’re going on sale soon for $233...