Sewing people: a question

Let me preface by saying that I am a non-sewer. I am trying to buy my aunt a sewing machine for her 60th birthday. The main reason she wants it is to make Scandinavian style sweaters, in thick heavy wool (the patterns require you to knit them, then sew the front back up to put the buttons in). I don't know what else she might use it for, but possible making baby clothes, and other projects like that.

Does anyone have any recommendations for particular models of sewing machines, or for features that I should look for?

Thank you!!

Sewing people: a question

it sounds like she'll be STEEKING the sweaters.

side note/fyi: steeking can be done without a sewing machine... i've done it a few times.

you don't need to look for anything in particular to be able to steek. the trick in steeking is the skill of the person at the sewing machine. if she's 60 and knows her way around these sweaters, she'll be able to handle any machine you buy her.

here are my thoughts:

older "vintage" machines are better because they're made with all metal parts and they're like timex: take a lickin'...

i can completely understand not wanting to get her a "used" machine for her birthday.

if you're going to get her something new, i've heard great things about the sewing machines you can pick up at sam's/bj's. i hear they're about $300 and kick ass. not sure if you want to spend that much.

i hope that helped some.

Message edited 1/31/2014 8:17:34 AM.

Sewing people: a question

Thanks! Yes, from what I was reading online, she is steeking. :) I assume that when she explained it to me, she dumbed it down. lol.

Re: Sewing people: a question