Where do I find cheap sewing machines that aren't crap?

Go to a sewing machine dealer and look at the used machines. You can find a old one that is a top brand. They will give you lessons on how to use the machine too. You could find a great bargain, many dealers are having machine sales now and sewers will trade in their old machine.

I would check the sewing machine stores for trade ins. The machines there are gone over - cleaned and fine tuned. And reasonable. Get a machine that does basic sewing, do not let yourself be sold a machine that does things you do not need. Although you already sew, you will probably be entitled to at least one class on your machine, take it. each machine has its own operational quirks and after a quick run through you will be stitchin' and not get frustrated. Have fun!

You might want to check into freecycle.org where you can sign up to get and give free stuff in your area. You would be amazed at what people give away. They also allow you to ask for things by posting Wanted. I've seen many sewing machines freecycled. Craigs list is another good place to look. You'll find good bargains there as well. Good luck.

Check second-hand stores. Some people get rid of them just because they're old and sewing isn't their thing. Not necessairily because they don't work.

Try a fabric store, Viking or White make some good models that are affordable.

A Husqvarna is a very good machine, even in their lower-priced models. If you want quality, you are going to have to pay for it. That doesn't mean the most expensive item is the best quality, however. It may just be a cheaply-made model with extra bells and whistles you don't need or even want. Most often, the mid-priced model is the best buy because it's a better quality but doesn't have all the fancy extras you never use. Check the website at www.joann.com to see when they're having a sale on the different machines. While you're there, sign up for their discount flyer, and get a coupon for 40% off something. Some stores don't let you use it on sewing machines, but you'll need other things for it, too. However, no matter what kind of machine you get (mine is a bottom-of-the-line Brother from WalMart for under $100.- 5 years ago, and it works just fine) it will last better and give you better service if you take good care of it. Carefully read the instructions and learn how to properly clean and oil your own machine. It's not hard; even I can do it! I make most of my own clothes from scratch, too, and have had great service from my cheap little machine -- mainly because I take care of it. Be careful not to strain it too hard. If it acts like the fabric is too thick, try something else. Sew that small part by hand. Use the machine gently and it will serve you many years, no matter what kind it is. I can guarantee you, if you treat a sewing machine like it is crap, it will become crap -- no matter how much was paid for it. Be sure to thank your mom sincerely for this present. Overlook your own inconvenience and try to understand her situation. One way of showing appreciation is to take care of the machine she buys you. Make her something nice with it, too.

A friend of mine found an exquisite machine in a pawn shop. That doesn't happen often, but she got what she wanted by accident. If you know enough about machines to give it a good examination, you may be able to find exactly what you want and can afford. I've found a lot of my equipment at thrift shops and second-hand shops. You never know what someone else is throwing out. You have to keep watching your local shop and you will eventually find what you want.

not sure how cheap you want to go but I got my sewing machine at walmart for 80 bucks and its a Singer. I've had it for over 4 years now and it has gotten alot of use and is still running strong! good luck!

Walmart has a Brother 2125 that works very well and last through a lot of rough sewing. It sells for around 80.00. You want a machine with an owners manual! Until you make big bucks, you don't need anymore of a machine than the Brother 2125. It sews a straight stitch and a zig zag.