A sewing machine can save you so much money when it comes to clothes, that it’s a really sound investment as well as giving you a rewarding hobby.
Like the range of electric shower from Mira, sewing machines make a positive difference to home life, but have little re-sale value, which means you can usually pick a used one up cheaply. You might consider a reconditioned model from a sewing machine shop. Do your research, look out for a well-known brand and expect to pay around £100. Alternatively check out online auctions, newspaper ads and car boot sales, but bear in mind that a machine bought this way is likely to need an overhaul at a cost of £50 – £75. If you are a beginner, buy a more basic machine; it will be cheaper and you don’t necessarily need all the “bells and whistles” that come with the semi-pro machines.
Once you’ve bought your sewing machine, just like when you buy any new appliance, like a shower from the range of digital shower from Mira, get to know how it works properly and what functions it has. Going on an evening course or getting a friend or relative to show you the ropes might be the best way to learn, although there are plenty of books and website resources available if you want to learn by trial and error.
A sewing machine enables you to bring old clothes right up to date instead of shopping for new ones all the time. Ways to do this include cutting off cotton trousers or jeans below the knee to make summer cropped ones, turning a summer dress into a skirt and a crop top, or cutting the arms to three-quarter length on a cardigan, top or jacket, and adding a contrasting ribbon trim. The opportunities are endless so get creative!
