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That is a great thought to go on, exploring new fabrics and sewing techniques. I might just jump over the top, not your everyday type of sewing. I done so much of that. I think if I challenged myself that could help. Maybe it is due to a sewung rut? Anyway at least I finished Sarah’s Easter dress from last year.

I’m going to go off course here and say that you should check Yelp and ask around in your local sewing community to see who the most reputable dealer/repair shop is, and look at the brand they sell. If anything goes hinky or you just need service done, you don’t want to have to ship your machine. Also a local dealer will often include a few free…[Read more]

I’m going to go off course here and say that you should check Yelp and ask around in your local sewing community to see who the most reputable dealer/repair shop is. If anything goes hinky or you just need service done, you don’t want to have to ship your machine. Also a local dealer will often include a few free lessons/machine orientation to…[Read more]

I find that I can’t be firing on all pistons at once. If I’m sewing a lot, I’m not knitting. If I’m knitting a lot, I’m not cooking, and so on. I too have been in a non-sewing phase for what feels like a long time. I have had half a Music Blouse on a hanger by my sewing desk for 6 months, no exaggeration. It may well not fit by the time I finish…[Read more]

Yes I do plan on buying for a dealer/shop. Problem is the shops here only carry 2 brands. So its a bit of driving all over and even then no one carries Juki/Pfaff.

SVH dealer has a independent shop in the Joanns here will check that out. Janome is an entirely different shop and the shop has horrible service and so pushy, maybe a different…[Read more]

Thank you for all the advice ladies!! I have been back to reading again, I have not done that in years. I need to take up drawing and painting again.

Liesl the sound of new patterns os music to my ears! I am akways so excited to see your new work. That might just be the ticket!

I’m not sure I’m following you, @mrskanuckles. Can you clarify a bit?

Hmm, sounds like you need a trip to NYC! Actually, you could try calling the Fashion Directory, which is a free service. It’s a great resource: http://garmentdistrict.nyc/fashion/fashion-directory/

I hope that helps!

I agree; it’s perfectly fine to take a break until inspiration hits! I know I personally can’t always be sewing or I burn out. Take a break and try something different or don’t do anything at all for a while. And maybe when we have some new patterns out (soon) that will help???

Thanks, @markjebobarrhotmail-com. My understanding per the SVP reps is that their different brands are targeted like this:

Singer: entry-level/beginning sewist
Viking: more advanced/a little more expensive
Pfaff: more expensive and more features.

In the end I think it’s just important to buy a machine that feels good to you and comes from a…[Read more]

I second the recommendation to go with a dealer. I worked for SVP for two years selling machines in a Joanns store. We had free lessons with the machines and encouraged customers to test sew on them. SVP stands for Singer Viking Pfaff and they are all owned by the same company now. It’s kind of like Ford, Mercury, and Lincoln. If you liked your…[Read more]

Consider it a sign from your innner creative self to explore new exciting things! I lost my sewing mojo for a good year, nothing I did seemed to bring it back. I tried picking ups some new fabric and new thisses and thats, but nope, no spark. I started to think about other skills beyond needle work that I have always wanted to explore, drawing and…[Read more]

I find this happens when I’m sort of floundering for what to make next. Do you have a specific event or charity you can sew for? Or a Craftsy class you’ve been meaning to take? Actually, an in-person class would be even better since seeing what others are working on might provide some inspiration. And if all else fails, focus on something else for…[Read more]

Maybe sew something small Sharon? Dolly’ clothes? Something for the home even? Just to get you warmed up. Easter outfits for the kids?

Maybe the weather is not helping? When it is extreme in temps, my sewer goes missing. Thankfully it has stuck around this time (but we shall see when school goes back next week and it’s hot as hot can be)

I hope…[Read more]

Hi @fitdoc

I am going to make it no secret how much I like Janome machines. I didn’t learn on one but my first machine was one and I have stuck with them since. I would strongly encourage you to go to a dealer and just have a look. Often they will let you play or they can give you a demo of the ones you like the look of. Websites are also good…[Read more]

OK outgrown my 15 year old basic singer 5817. I do a lot of garment sewing (maybe a garment a week) and now getting into quilting (mostly random blocks and incorporating into pouches/totes) but hoping to make 5 bed quilts this year.

Must haves (that I don’t have now)
one step buttonhole feature
needle down position
ability to lower feed…[Read more]