Anybody know how to sew?

[shootingstar]

My only concern is being able to sew heavier fabrics like denim or canvas. What is the cutoff regarding machines and different fabrics? Being able to sew and alter my uniforms, heavy duty cotton (bdu type clothing) and sew patches on. Just to start.

Make sure the sewing machine that you want, will allow you to change a common brand line of sewing needles of different thicknesses to allow you to sew through very heavy duty cotton material seams.

ie. I use at least a size 16 or even 18 if my sewing machine needle has to chomp down through multiple layers of heavy fabrics for a rolled seam. Yes, I've broken some needles because I've miscalculated the size of needle for the sewing "drill" job.

For instance for regular weight fabrics for shirts, you would be using a size 12 or 14 sewing machine needle. Finer fabrics, like silk it's size 9.

These needle sizes are based on Kenmore line. But are usable for alot of ordinary mechanical sewing machines.

I have had my Kenmore sewing machine for last 25 yrs., hence it's not computerized. No need, but it has a buttonhole maker, serger stitch, adjustable zigzag stitch, and about 8 other different types of stitches. (Even a smocking stitch which I tried for fun but wondered when would I use this??? )

It's like a bike, cost-savings can be huge while enjoyable results. It costed me $140.00 at that time....but has saved me tons of money for what I have created from it. There is....no way I will give up my sewing machine now. I would be a fool.