Re: [h-cost] Advice on new sewing machine
I have had several Husquvanas (presently an Optima 190) if you are not going for an industrial type and all have been great and have the features you list. The buttonholing is basic, that is, shirt style not keyhole. Maintenance has been simple, bobbin/shuttle are vertical, the thing has a little weight which is useful. The bobbins are an unusual size but easy to find. You get a good range of foot attachments and tension options and it is easy to operate. As said, I have had several of this brand and all have served well. Having said that, I also have a 1960/70s department store branded machine which is solid as a rock, sews zig-zag and straight without fuss, cost nothing second hand, can be fixed by a one-armed monkey, and goes like the clappers, -C. - Original Message - From: "Historical Costume" To:"Historical Costume" Cc: Sent:Sun, 2 Sep 2012 17:35:55 -0700 (PDT) Subject:Re: [h-cost] Advice on new sewing machine I bought a used Bernina 1008 of of ebay a few years ago, and loved it! Its since moved to backup status due to a parts issue, and I purchased a Necchi at the recommendation of my sewing machine repair guy (who was a big fan of Necchi's). Love both of the machines, but if you want a rugged workhorse, I'd go with a Bernina 1008, it will sew anything, and is a great machine. - Marion From: Lavolta Press To: Historical Costume Sent: Sun, September 2, 2012 6:53:54 PM Subject: [h-cost] Advice on new sewing machine I do not want a serger, or an embroidery machine. I want a machine with the following features: * Metal body * Durability * Infrequent need for service * Not quirky * Really good straight stitch * Zigzag capability * Easy buttonholes * Ability to sew both light and heavy fabrics easily, including crossing seams * Free arm or narrow bed? so I can sew sleeves easily * Probably the ability to lower the feed dogs * Mechanical machine, except I'm confused about the term. Even the "mechanical" machines (new not vintage) clearly have some computerization * A machine that doesn't try to make my decisions for me! * Probably a new machine, since I don't want to inherit someone else's problems and want to be able to get parts easily * Good track records. I have bought two expensive machines (over time) that were supposedly good machines from reputable manufacturers, yet they turned out to be a chronic PITA I am considering the Bernina 1008, since as far as I can tell the 1015 is no longer made. But clearly other manufacturers are also making mechanical machines. Thanks for any advice. Fran Lavolta Press Books of historic patterns www.lavoltapress.com www.facebook.com/LavoltaPress ___ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume ___ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume ___ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume
Re: [h-cost] Advice on new sewing machine
I just emailed "Eddie's" and asked if they have the Bernina 1008. I figure if I buy a great new machine as opposed to a used one, I'll get all 20 years of use out of it as opposed to buying a used one and someone else already got part of the 20 years. An trying to figure out exactly where I can buy in the San Francisco area. Thanks, Fran Lavolta Press Books of historic patterns www.lavoltapress.com On 9/2/2012 5:35 PM, Marion McNealy wrote: I bought a used Bernina 1008 of of ebay a few years ago, and loved it! Its since moved to backup status due to a parts issue, and I purchased a Necchi at the recommendation of my sewing machine repair guy (who was a big fan of Necchi's). Love both of the machines, but if you want a rugged workhorse, I'd go with a Bernina 1008, it will sew anything, and is a great machine. - Marion ___ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume
Re: [h-cost] Advice on new sewing machine
My daughter just got a new machine. We went to "Eddie's Quilting Bee" in Mt. View, CA. She told them what she wanted and they steered her to a great machine. Maybe contact them and ask for advice, or if you are close enough, visit. Sharon C. -Original Message- From: h-costume-boun...@indra.com [mailto:h-costume-boun...@indra.com] On Behalf Of Lavolta Press Sent: Sunday, September 02, 2012 3:52 PM To: Historical Costume Subject: [h-cost] Advice on new sewing machine I do not want a serger, or an embroidery machine. I want a machine with the following features: * Metal body * Durability * Infrequent need for service * Not quirky * Really good straight stitch * Zigzag capability * Easy buttonholes * Ability to sew both light and heavy fabrics easily, including crossing seams * Free arm or narrow bed? so I can sew sleeves easily * Probably the ability to lower the feed dogs * Mechanical machine, except I'm confused about the term. Even the "mechanical" machines (new not vintage) clearly have some computerization * A machine that doesn't try to make my decisions for me! * Probably a new machine, since I don't want to inherit someone else's problems and want to be able to get parts easily * Good track records. I have bought two expensive machines (over time) that were supposedly good machines from reputable manufacturers, yet they turned out to be a chronic PITA I am considering the Bernina 1008, since as far as I can tell the 1015 is no longer made. But clearly other manufacturers are also making mechanical machines. Thanks for any advice. Fran Lavolta Press Books of historic patterns www.lavoltapress.com www.facebook.com/LavoltaPress ___ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume ___ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume
Re: [h-cost] Advice on new sewing machine
I bought a used Bernina 1008 of of ebay a few years ago, and loved it! Its since moved to backup status due to a parts issue, and I purchased a Necchi at the recommendation of my sewing machine repair guy (who was a big fan of Necchi's). Love both of the machines, but if you want a rugged workhorse, I'd go with a Bernina 1008, it will sew anything, and is a great machine. - Marion From: Lavolta Press To: Historical Costume Sent: Sun, September 2, 2012 6:53:54 PM Subject: [h-cost] Advice on new sewing machine I do not want a serger, or an embroidery machine. I want a machine with the following features: * Metal body * Durability * Infrequent need for service * Not quirky * Really good straight stitch * Zigzag capability * Easy buttonholes * Ability to sew both light and heavy fabrics easily, including crossing seams * Free arm or narrow bed? so I can sew sleeves easily * Probably the ability to lower the feed dogs * Mechanical machine, except I'm confused about the term. Even the "mechanical" machines (new not vintage) clearly have some computerization * A machine that doesn't try to make my decisions for me! * Probably a new machine, since I don't want to inherit someone else's problems and want to be able to get parts easily * Good track records. I have bought two expensive machines (over time) that were supposedly good machines from reputable manufacturers, yet they turned out to be a chronic PITA I am considering the Bernina 1008, since as far as I can tell the 1015 is no longer made. But clearly other manufacturers are also making mechanical machines. Thanks for any advice. Fran Lavolta Press Books of historic patterns www.lavoltapress.com www.facebook.com/LavoltaPress ___ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume ___ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume
Re: [h-cost] Advice on new sewing machine
On 9/2/2012 4:29 PM, R Lloyd Mitchell wrote: Fran, I am still singing the wonders of a Kenmore 158: series. Replaced my Beloved of over 30 years with a Pfaff "Jeans and satin". The pfaff really has lived up to its hype and does not require a transition period between fibers...just like the Kenmore of the '70s. But for rugged costume mileage, it was always at MY beck and call. Picked up a free arm last month on e-Bay that never saw much sewing even though it was advertised as used. While searching, came across a number of them New and some with cases for about $200. My original one (1972) had key cams that I seldom used...but I love the button-holer, also with keys Great when you need to make dozens! Kathleen If that's the Pfaff 6192, I can't find any new ones. I am looking only for a new machine. I don't have time to shop for old machines, fix them, get rid of the unfixable ones, etc., I know old machines are a great hobby for some, but I'm not interested in that. And yes, I've had a workhorse Kenmore, and I've had a great early electric, and I've had a treadle, and they were all good machines--but I still want a new machine. I want to buy one within the next few days. Fran Lavolta Press www.lavoltapress.com ___ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume
Re: [h-cost] Advice on new sewing machine
Fran, I am still singing the wonders of a Kenmore 158: series. Replaced my Beloved of over 30 years with a Pfaff "Jeans and satin". The pfaff really has lived up to its hype and does not require a transition period between fibers...just like the Kenmore of the '70s. But for rugged costume mileage, it was always at MY beck and call. Picked up a free arm last month on e-Bay that never saw much sewing even though it was advertised as used. While searching, came across a number of them New and some with cases for about $200. My original one (1972) had key cams that I seldom used...but I love the button-holer, also with keys Great when you need to make dozens! Kathleen -Original Message- From: "Lavolta Press" Sent 9/2/2012 6:52:11 PM To: "Historical Costume" Subject: [h-cost] Advice on new sewing machineI do not want a serger, or an embroidery machine. I want a machine with the following features: * Metal body * Durability * Infrequent need for service * Not quirky * Really good straight stitch * Zigzag capability * Easy buttonholes * Ability to sew both light and heavy fabrics easily, including crossing seams * Free arm or narrow bed? so I can sew sleeves easily * Probably the ability to lower the feed dogs * Mechanical machine, except I'm confused about the term. Even the "mechanical" machines (new not vintage) clearly have some computerization * A machine that doesn't try to make my decisions for me! * Probably a new machine, since I don't want to inherit someone else's problems and want to be able to get parts easily * Good track records. I have bought two expensive machines (over time) that were supposedly good machines from reputable manufacturers, yet they turned out to be a chronic PITA I am considering the Bernina 1008, since as far as I can tell the 1015 is no longer made. But clearly other manufacturers are also making mechanical machines. Thanks for any advice. Fran Lavolta Press Books of historic patterns www.lavoltapress.comwww.facebook.com/LavoltaPress ___ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume___ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume
[h-cost] Advice on new sewing machine
I do not want a serger, or an embroidery machine. I want a machine with the following features: * Metal body * Durability * Infrequent need for service * Not quirky * Really good straight stitch * Zigzag capability * Easy buttonholes * Ability to sew both light and heavy fabrics easily, including crossing seams * Free arm or narrow bed? so I can sew sleeves easily * Probably the ability to lower the feed dogs * Mechanical machine, except I'm confused about the term. Even the "mechanical" machines (new not vintage) clearly have some computerization * A machine that doesn't try to make my decisions for me! * Probably a new machine, since I don't want to inherit someone else's problems and want to be able to get parts easily * Good track records. I have bought two expensive machines (over time) that were supposedly good machines from reputable manufacturers, yet they turned out to be a chronic PITA I am considering the Bernina 1008, since as far as I can tell the 1015 is no longer made. But clearly other manufacturers are also making mechanical machines. Thanks for any advice. Fran Lavolta Press Books of historic patterns www.lavoltapress.com www.facebook.com/LavoltaPress ___ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume
Re: [h-cost] Stupid question
Paper! Donating! What a great idea. Thanks, those who suggested it! I can get behind that idea. I also wanted to add that I like to have 2 pr pinking shears - one for general fabrics, one for delicate fabrics (linings, silks) so they stay useable longer. --Rachel ___ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume
Re: [h-cost] Stupid question
Actually, the 'worn-out' pair of Fiskars might not be a total waste, each time you replaced them. They'd really only be worn out for fabric, but might still work quite well on paper. Don't need a bunch of paper pinkers? No problem... a preschool, an art teacher (any grade), a community center's crafts program...there would be plenty of places where a pair of shears, suitable only for paper, would be appreciated! And since I like your idea, I'm going to keep it in mind for future use! Laurie T. Phoenix -Original Message- From: h-costume-boun...@indra.com [mailto:h-costume-boun...@indra.com] On Behalf Of Galadriel Sent: Saturday, September 01, 2012 6:18 PM To: h-cost...@indra.com Subject: Re: [h-cost] Stupid question I bought a new pair of Gingher pinking shears and had the same thing happen so I sent them off to Gingher to sharpen. It took them *3 tries* to sharpen them to my satisfaction. I think they're testing them on wigan or muslin or something slightly crisp. I ended up sending a piece of the silk charmeuse I was trying to pink and told them I needed them to pink it. What a pain. I actually kind of hate the Gingher pinking shears but since they're the ONLY people who sharpen pinking shears, I feel like I have to use them, although I'm beginning to think buying a new pair of Fiskars on sale every time my pinking shears get dull might be much less of a hassle (though wasteful). --Rachel ___ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume ___ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume
Re: [h-cost] Stupid question
I purchased my rotary pinker at Joanns. It is an Olfa and seems to be pretty commonly found. I've only used it on long strips that are going to be ruched decoration (18th century). I much prefer the shears for most jobs. Teena From: Franchesca Havas To: 'Historical Costume' Sent: Sunday, September 2, 2012 1:01 AM Subject: Re: [h-cost] Stupid question Most likely, you do. :) Most folks do not know where to purchase them so post the link if you know it! :D Franchesca -Original Message- From: h-costume-boun...@indra.com [mailto:h-costume-boun...@indra.com] On Behalf Of Kim Baird Sent: Saturday, September 01, 2012 8:23 PM To: 'Historical Costume' Subject: Re: [h-cost] Stupid question Am I the only one who has a pinking blade for my rotary cutter? Beats the H out of pinking shears. Kim -Original Message- From: h-costume-boun...@indra.com [mailto:h-costume-boun...@indra.com] On Behalf Of Land of Oz Sent: Saturday, September 01, 2012 9:16 PM To: Historical Costume Subject: Re: [h-cost] Stupid question >although I'm beginning to think >buying a new pair of Fiskars on sale >every time my pinking shears get dull >might be much less of a hassle >(though wasteful). > > --Rachel You could always donate them to a school or teacher. They will still cut paper even when they are long past cutting fabric. Denise ___ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume ___ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume ___ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume ___ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume
Re: [h-cost] Stupid question
I wasn't able to find the pinking blades on Fiskar's web site
(possibly not under "sewing/quilting"), but I did find them on Olfa's:
http://www.olfa.com/RotaryCuttersList.aspx?C=21
Searching Amazon ("rotary pinking blades") turned up both Fiskars and Olfa.
--Charlene
On Sun, Sep 2, 2012 at 12:01 AM, Franchesca Havas
wrote:
> Most likely, you do. :)
>
> Most folks do not know where to purchase them so post the link if you know
> it! :D
>
> Franchesca
>
>
> -Original Message-
> From: h-costume-boun...@indra.com [mailto:h-costume-boun...@indra.com] On
> Behalf Of Kim Baird
> Sent: Saturday, September 01, 2012 8:23 PM
> To: 'Historical Costume'
> Subject: Re: [h-cost] Stupid question
>
> Am I the only one who has a pinking blade for my rotary cutter? Beats the H
> out of pinking shears.
> Kim
>
> -Original Message-
> From: h-costume-boun...@indra.com [mailto:h-costume-boun...@indra.com] On
> Behalf Of Land of Oz
> Sent: Saturday, September 01, 2012 9:16 PM
> To: Historical Costume
> Subject: Re: [h-cost] Stupid question
>
>>although I'm beginning to think
>>buying a new pair of Fiskars on sale
>>every time my pinking shears get dull
>>might be much less of a hassle
>>(though wasteful).
>>
>> --Rachel
>
>
> You could always donate them to a school or teacher. They will still cut
> paper even when they are long past cutting fabric.
>
> Denise
>
> ___
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>
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> h-costume mailing list
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> http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume
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> h-costume mailing list
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--
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Silly Putty, 2001
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Re: [h-cost] Stupid question
I have a pinking blade but rarely use it. De -Original Message Am I the only one who has a pinking blade for my rotary cutter? Beats the H out of pinking shears. Kim ___ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume
