I am looking into buying my first sewing machine, to hem pants (primarily denim). I would also be open to learning darning, if the occasion were to rise. Given this, it is likely the machine would be used sporadically. I have zero experience in doing anything related to alterations myself. Nor have I ever used a machine in a learning capacity.

A local store is a Janome dealer, and they recommended the Travel Mate 16 or 30. I am worried with these being travel machines, the motor might be a little weak for denim. Another Janome machine I have looked at is the HD3000. But I saw reviews they put a weaker motor in the newer machines, and they don’t work as well as the previous models.

A couple other machines I have looked at are the Juki F300 and HT740. Due to some folks saying Juki handles denim better. The Janome machines seem to have a better warranty.

Is one of these a best machine for my use case? Is there a better one I should be looking into?

What are some good affordable sewing machine for beginners under $150? Please suggest me some.

Hi so a while back I got a sewing machine from a yard sale and it still works and it's a "Michley Tivax Lil Sew N' Sew Model: LSS 505 " and I am looking for a thread cover or spool cap for this sewing machine or something that would fit it. I tried to get it off of they're website but they have various different models and I highly doubt that they still make and or sell the accessories or sewing machines themselves for model: LSS 505 AKA Lil Sew N' Sew LSS 505 but they had this; https://tivax.com/collections/sewing/products/thread-cover on they're website tivax.com but I already ordered that exact thread cover and it doesn't fit nor' does it specify much on which sewing machine model it's supposed to fit for or would fit for or is supposed to be a accessory for which sewing machine model in specific. Does anyone here know if there are any widespread substitute thread covers AKA spool caps that are like a 'one size fits all' if that even is a thing that does exist in this context or does anyone know where I can find something similar that might work or will work for this sewing machine or the exact same spool cap for this sewing machine in specifically? If anyone does know thanks and I appreciate anyone here who read or viewed this post. Seeya!

Can you recommend me some good irons? I have A LOT of linen clothes, so need something good.

Another question is... does Wattage matter? I saw some opinions that black & decker classic iron is good, but it's only 1100W, while irons like Philips azure are 3000W.

thanks

Hi all, quilter here starting to dive into some garment making. I’d love to try making this dress in this color but the fabric needs to have stretch per the pattern guidelines (pattern author recommends interlock, Ponte, cotton Lycra jersey and double-brushed poly). Where are some places to look for fabric like this in a wider color range? Thank you in advance!!

I know to use zigzag or lightening stitch for stretch fabric usually but can I use a straight stitch for the invisible zipper? That should be fine right? Like a zig zag would get into the teeth of the zip wouldn't it?

It's for the back of a bodysuit. 4 way stretch fabric.

I have some fleece shorts that are a bit big, and I want them to look more flattering. I have these levi's jeans that literally separate my cheeks (sorry) while leaving room for my butt still and I want to somewhat recreate that.

Does anyone know how I would go about this, if there's a tutorial anywhere, or if there's terminology for this type of alteration (e.g. taking in the seat of the pants)? My best guess would be to take in the back rise in the middle of the butt, but I'm nowhere near experienced enough to know how that would impact the fit of the shorts overall.

https://preview.redd.it/vi21sk7o64dd1.png?width=960&format=png&auto=webp&s=f23c9ab8d9d580a8f02e6b7e136693c1e5f013fc