The Sew, Mama, Sew! Blog has started a Sewing Machine Meme in order to collect reviews on different types of machines in one place. I wish I had this resource when I was looking to buy my machine! I’m participating to help others out, and if you sew, I encourage you to do the same. Those of you who don’t sew, sorry about the snoozefest. Our sewing machines are such a crucial component to successful sewing, and yet, they don’t get talked about much. So here goes…

What brand and model do you have?
Babylock Crafter’s Choice

How long have you had it?
About a year and a half

How much does that machine cost (approximately)?
I think I paid around $600 and got them to throw in some feet and a 1 year service plan.

What types of things do you sew (i.e. quilting, clothing, handbags, home dec projects, etc.)?
I mainly do quilting, but I occasionally sew clothing, craft projects, toys, etc.

How much do you sew? How much wear and tear does the machine get?
I probably sew on average 1 hour a week over the course of a year. The majority of it is quilting cotton.

Do you like/love/hate your machine? Are you ambivalent? Passionate? Does she have a name?
I really like my machine. I’ve had no regrets since I bought it, and I haven’t run into anything that I need that it doesn’t have. She doesn’t have a name, but maybe she should…

What features does your machine have that work well for you?
I love the needle threader, the programed stitches, the digital controls for stitch length & width, and the tray that holds the extra feet & bobbins.

Is there anything that drives you nuts about your machine?
When I’m sewing on a certain stitch setting and turn the machine off, it reverts to the default setting. This means that anytime I use my 1/4″ foot (a lot), and don’t remember to move the needle over when beginning to sew, the needle jams into the foot and makes unhappy noises.

Do you have a great story to share about your machine (i.e., Found it under the Christmas tree? Dropped it on the kitchen floor? Sewed your fingernail to your zipper?, Got it from your Great Grandma?, etc.!)? We want to hear it!
My machine is too new to have a great story behind it.

Would you recommend the machine to others? Why?
Yes, for someone who is ready to go beyond a basic machine. It does everything a hobby crafter would want to do, and it’s very easy to learn. The manual is very well written too.

What factors do you think are important to consider when looking for a new machine?
That it has enough features to be useful without going overboard. I almost considered the step up from my machine (Decorator’s Choice I think), but I’m glad I got this one because the step up just has a bunch more decorative stitches. I find I never use the decorative stitches my machine has, and when I do, it never looks as good as I hoped.

Do you have a dream machine?
Yes. One just like mine, but with a huge quilting arm attachment. Also, it should cook dinner for me while I sew.