Sew Mama Sew is hosting a Sewing Machine Meme (it rhymes!) so I thought I'd join in the fun.
What brand and model do you have?
Brother LS2125I
How long have you had it?
Just about two years
How much does that machine cost (approximately)?
$65-80
What types of things do you sew (i.e. quilting, clothing, handbags, home dec projects, etc.)?
Mostly clothing and the occasional bag or pillow cover, but by and large clothing.
How much do you sew? How much wear and tear does the machine get?
During the summer I probably sew 6 hours a week. In the winter about 6 hours a month.
Do you like/love/hate your machine? Are you ambivalent? Passionate? Does she have a name?
I like that it's straight forward and simple, it's a very unintimidating machine and had a low cost of entry. It desn't do anything fancy, but it gives me all the basic stuff I need to make my projects.
I wouldn't say I'm passionate about it, I think I'd like something a little sturdier, more metal/less plastic, but I think I'll probably hold onto this one for another two years at least.
What features does your machine have that work well for you?
The 4-step buttonholer is clear and easy to use. The feet are super easy to change and the darning plate is easy to install.
Is there anything that drives you nuts about your machine?
The instruction manual was a bit more detailed, because there are some slightly more complex stitches (like an invisible hem st, I think) that aren't well explained. Overall, I'm pretty happy, wish it had an overlock st of some kind though.
Do you have a great story to share about your machine (i.e., Found it under the Christmas tree? Dropped it on the kitchen floor? Sewed your fingernail to your zipper?, Got it from your Great Grandma?, etc.!)? We want to hear it!
My machine was a gift to myself, paid for with the stipend I earned from stage managing. I bought the first pattern I sewed on it about 3 weeks before I could actually get the machine because I was so excited to get started!
Would you recommend the machine to others? Why?
It's a great starter machine. It probably won't last forever, but I think I'll probably choose to upgrade before it wears out. I would recommend it to beginning sewers any day.
What factors do you think are important to consider when looking for a new machine?
What are you primary planning on making. Do you want to embroider or monogram anything? Do you have a dedicated sewing table or are you constantly going to have to move it around? Think not only about your current skill set, but what you dream of doing later.
Do you have a dream machine?
Something metal-framed with a few more stitch options (so demanding I know...)