Advice for Buying a New Sewing Machine – Stitched Together with 26 Years Experience

It’s sewing season and many stitchers, tailors, quilters and crafters are looking to purchase their first high-quality sewing machine, upgrade, or add some new accessories. At Marie’s, we leverage 26 years of experience to guide our customers, ensuring they make informed choices for a long-lasting sewing experience. Investing in a new sewing machine is significant, and it should be treated as such.

When in the market for a new machine, make a list of the features you would like to have. Do your research. Read sewing magazines, Consumer Reports, and customer reviews online. Consult friends, family, or guild members for recommendations and avoid buying a sewing machine sight unseen, no matter how great the price.

Visit our stores in Elma and Lockport to discuss your needs with our knowledgeable staff, who can help you explore various machines. At our stores, you also can take various machines for a spin. It’s essential to feel comfortable with both the machine and the dealership.

Here are some key questions to consider when shopping:

  • What is the machine’s warranty? It’s important to know who can service your machine under warranty if it is required.
  • Do you take trade-ins?
  • What is your trade-up policy?
  • If the machine needs repairs, are they done in-house?
  • Do you offer free lessons?
  • Do you provide a free tune-up?
  • Do you offer owners any special discounts?

Ask what attachments come with the machine and what else you may want to purchase to give you the most flexibility for how you intend to use it. Always buy your machine from a shop that makes you feel welcomed, unhurried, and not pressured.

Beware – sewing machines at the big box stores are not the same as the machines in your local quilt shop. While they may share a brand name, they often differ significantly in quality. Buy a machine from us gets you get unlimited “One on One” lessons on your machine (never a charge) and 20% off Thread and Stabilizer for life.

At our sewing centers, we also offer scissor sharpening, machine repair, and many classes, such as:

  1. Braided Twist Runner Class – Lockport
  2. Ruler Work – Elma
  3. Ruler Work – Lockport
  4. WIP Workshop (formerly Open Sew): Elma & Lockport
  5. Sew & Socialize in Elma & Lockport
  6. Long Arm Rental
  7. ByAnnie club