Sewing machine: our readers have tested 3 machines and give us their opinion: Femme Actuelle Le MAG

From entry-level to the most sophisticated, there are multiple sewing machines… for occasional or regular seamstresses, beginners or experienced seamstresses. Price-wise, it’s the same thing, there’s something for all budgets. However, before purchasing a machine, you should ask yourself questions… In other words, take stock of your needs and your desires. Take into account your level of sewing and the use you will make of it. No need to choose an ultra-advanced, therefore expensive, model offering around a hundred stitches, if you only want to make hems! On the other hand, if you are a creative pro, dress the whole family, make “hand-sewn” gifts, do embroidery, patchwork, a model with advanced functions will be more suitable.

“For beginners or occasional sewing”

With 23 stitches available, an automatic needle threader, a 70 watt motor, a solid metal frame, LED lighting, a 4-step buttonhole, an included accessory box, the “Drop&sew” function and a carrying handle , this machine has advantages for a moderate price. Simple to use, once launched, it is nevertheless aimed at an unconfirmed audience or for one-off work.

The + The machine is not noisy, easy to start, it does not move during sewing which is very important and is very lighttherefore easy to transport. The transparent spool holder allows you to see if there is any thread left.

THE – The instructions are not clear, with explanations that do not match the correct illustrations. After several attempts with the needle threader, I had to resort to threading the thread “the old-fashioned way”!

My opinion : I expected to be won over by a modern machine, me using a metal model from the 50s, but that was not the case! I was initially a little disconcerted by the “toy” side of the plastic covering. Then, from the complex instructions to the needle threader which did not keep its promises… I was very disappointed. I wasn’t won over by the floor pedal because I’m not used to this system. Nevertheless, the machine has a lot of points and suitable for beginners or for occasional use.

Marie, 48 years old, Paris.

Singer Madam 2, €349.© Singer.

“She has everything to enrich her sewing experience”

This machine has 23 stitches adjustable in width up to 6 mm, an integrated needle threader, an adjustable stitch width, an LED indicator, a rigid cover with handle, 5 presser feet included, 16 accessories, a position of the adjustable needle and a one-step automatic buttonhole, a real asset. With its many features, from utility stitches to decorative, stretch stitches, etc., this machine is accessible to everyone and will appeal to the most seasoned seamstresses. We appreciate its design and lightness.

The + The handling is simple, the fabric slides well with optimal training thanks to the 7 claws. The instructions are perfectly illustrated and clear. Low noise, light, easy to transport with its rigid cover and handle. Many possibilities, presser feet, etc. and especially the buttonhole in one step!

THE – You have to get used to changing the bobbin from the top which is different from the majority of machines.

My opinion : I had used other machines before but this one was so easy to use that it made me want to get back into sewing. It is very complete, even more than I expected. Its use is relatively quiet. I found the little illustrated guide very well done and it was useful for threading the bobbin thread, different from those I was used to. I used quite a few stitches, straight, zig-zag, hemmed, without any problem. I would recommend it to a beginner as it is simple and practical, as well as to an expert thanks to all its features. Excellent value for money. I loved !

Thérèse, 71 years old, Nanterre (92).

Smarter by Pfaff 160 s, €449.
Smarter by Pfaff 160 s, €449.© Pfaff

“Ultra simple handling”

With 21 decorative stitches, easy stitch selection, integrated needle threader, 5 additional accessories included, 4-step buttonhole and protective soft cover, the latest from Husqvarna keeps its promises. Relatively silent, it is an entry-level machine, which delivers. We appreciate its small supply of equipment and its extremely simple handling, the perfect detailed booklet for a beginner. Everything is done to inspire.

The +: The booklet provided, in French, is complete and very clear with numerous explanations and perfectly readable diagrams. The handling is surprisingly simple and fluid. The 5 accessories are a real asset. His price !

THE – : perhaps not for ultra-savvy seamstresses, and even then!

My opinion : its ease of use and startup are very pleasant. I read the instructions carefully and appreciated each step, perfectly explained and illustrated. I also really appreciated the accessories including a satin stitch, an invisible hem or even the invisible buttonhole and the set of needles. I am used to sewing simple things and even though I had difficulty passing my thread through the first time, probably because I had chosen too thick a thread, I was able to make from the first time, more elaborate creations, without difficulty. This is a product that I would definitely recommend to a beginner seamstress and even one with a little experience.

Inès, 17 years old, Saint-Cloud (92).

Husqvarna Viking H Class E10, €199.
Husqvarna Viking H Class E10, €199.© Husqvarna

Become a tester to Current wife !

Would you like to participate in our product and/or activity tests? Send your contact details (name, age, telephone, address) to the following address:

[email protected]

Read also :

⋙ Everything you need to know about the sewing machine (and how to choose it)

⋙ Sewing: why and how to adjust the tension of the sewing machine?

⋙ Sewing needle, thimble, machine: 8 essential tools to get started in sewing

source site-44