Hello all. I'm looking for advice on buying a sewing machine. I have narrowed my choices to two machines. The bernette 35 and Singer 4452.
A little background information about me. I was a full time working mum till my daughter was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. I left my job as she needs full time attention and supervision.
Being a stay at home mom has been a difficult transition for me. I loved my job despite being stressful and demanding. I find that I'm bored at home and looking for a way to keep busy. My daughter will start school next year and I need to do something. I have no intention of going back to work any time soon. I want to be available for her when she needs me.
And so I decided to take up sewing. My kids clothes always need fixing (2 very energetic boys).I am a beginner when it comes to sewing with limited experience. I took sewing classes a long time ago.
The reason why I narrowed down to these two is because I am familiar with them and I need a simple mechanical machine. They each have their pros and cons.
Singer. Pro: My mum was a dressmaker and she used Singer all her life. It's also cheaper than the Bernette. It's a strong machine that can handle any kind of material, light to heavy. Con: there has been news of its decline in quality and I'm afraid of having to take it in for servicing or fixing all the time.
Bernette. Pro: The reviews online have been good and anyone I spoke to love their machine. Con: It's much pricier than Singer and I'm not sure of their after care service especially when they are 300km away.
Please help me decide. if you think there are better options please do share. Thank you.