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Dreaming of a new machine? (And who isn't!) Now may be the time to compare features of different machines in your price range. I realize we aren't all talking the same language when we speak of sewing machines. And the features we NEED may be different from those we WANT. I feel like a child of old with his nose against the glass of the candy counter when I look at top of the line machines.
Now for some features that are useful in piecing and quilting: Automatic tension is a time saver. Also check the system for winding the bobbin, another time saver if the machine doesn't have to be unthreaded. Newer models have a lot of desirable features for making quilts. A high lift of the sewing foot is provided on some machines. A second notch of the lifter on some machines will raise the sewing foot just a bit and is great for getting the thick quilt under the foot on machines with the standard lift. "Needle up, needle down" is another desirable feature. It will leave the needle down exactly where you paused. A needle threader is a joy to these tired old eyes. Especially for using monofilament thread. The throat of the machine must be wide enough to hold the rolled up quilt you will be machine quilting. It is much easier to get that big quilt through a generous opening than a tight one. If the machine does not come with a 1/4 inch seam foot, check to see if one is available to buy. An even feed foot attachment is essential in machine quilting. If one is not made especially for this machine, find out if a generic foot will fit. How about the sound of the machine? Does it run quietly? A noisy machine is very tiring after working with it several hours. Not part of the machine,- - - but when you are buying a new machine, consider how you will mount it, or what kind of table will be used to support it. A properly fitting chair will determine how comfortable you will be sewing and quilting.
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