Sewing Machines and Plushies

[Former_Member]

Hello! Help!
I handsew all of my plushies - which means each monster takes about 6 hours to make. I love the finished product, but I can't say I enjoy the full process of sewing the little beasts together, and I also begin to think that I should be making more for the amount of time that goes in to it than I do.

So, I decided that I should look for a sewing machine.
Ideally, I want to spend around £150 - I realise that if I were to spend more I would get a better quality machine, but I just can't afford that. I also know that new machines have plastic bits instead of steel, so they don't last as long, and I ALSO know that the needle needs to be changed depending on different fabric weights but all those facts aside, I do ask for your help:

Which sewing machines, preferrably newer models so that I can find them online, would easily sew through faux fur? Give me a brand, or even specific models - it'd all be a huge help!

[Former_Member]

Though I'm not an expert, when it comes to sewing a particular fabric, I don't think the machine itself makes much difference. Assuming you've got a basic, sturdy machine, and not a kiddie version, it should be able to handle most fabrics, from silk to upholstery. Having said that, I have very little experience sewing through faux fur, so I couldn't tell you what setting you should have it on or what needle type to buy (sorry). One tip I have learned, though, is to *always* put something like tissue paper (that can easily be torn away from the stitches) between the fabric and the machine if you're sewing anything that has long, loose fibers. Otherwise you'll spend forever trying to untangle fur from your bobbin case.

Is it important that you be able to buy one online? I found my current machine through craigslist (I think there's a craigslist.co), and was able to get an older and much better model than I could otherwise have afforded for a really good price. As long as you don't need it right away, it might pay to shop around at websites like that first.

Sorry I'm not more helpful, best of luck with your search!

P. S., Your monsters are absofreakinglutely adorable! ^.^

[COLDHAMCUDDLIES]

I'm based in the UK, so my machine would not be of much help to you. However, when I lived and sewed (although not toys, as I do now) in Canada, I had a Singer which had been converted from English voltage to Canadian (and gave up the ghost eventually) and then a Brother. I'd happily go with a Brother sewing machine (and it doesn't have to have too many "bells and whilstles" on it). If it can do buttonholes and buttons, as well as sew straight, that's really all you need.

However, if you can, I'd recommend getting a new one, if at all possible. You cannot help but inherit the problems of the previous user, otherwise.

Good luck - and Happy New Year!