Barbie Lightweight Portable Sewing Machine Review

I bought this at a local store for $20.It seemed cute, so I bought it.

My daughter was so excited to open the box! Last night, when we did, I realized what a piece of junk it was.It only sews one stitch length, so don't bother sewing anything but your basic cotton calico type fabrics (and it has trouble sewing through 4 layers, so don't think for a minute you're actually going to hem over a seam), it has no zig-zag, so don't plan on washing anything your child sews (the material will unravel) and it only speed control it has is low or high (the low speed could be scary for beginning adults, even) The presser foot has no pressure control, just on or off.The thread breaks constantly, the tension doesn't really adjust and the presser foot is so low in th "up" position that it's difficult to get the fabric under it.

I am returning it today.

Don't waste your $40, it's not even worth $20... I am highly considering getting an inexpensive full size machine instead.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Barbie Lightweight Portable Sewing Machine

Product Description:
She'll invent countless sewing projects with the Barbie Lightweight Portable Sewing Machine. The easy-to-use machine sets up on any desk or table to start making tote bags, pillows, dolls, flags, clothes and more. Features free-arm sewing, speed control button, easy-wind/drop-in bobbin system and power switch. The lower gears are constructed of heavy-duty metal for years of use, and the machine comes pre-threaded and ready to sew. Includes AC/DC adapter. Imported.

Buy cheap Barbie Lightweight Portable Sewing Machine now

Euro-Pro Stitch Art 18-Stitch Sewing Machine - 8260 Review

I am incredibly frustrated by this machine.It ran well at first - seems well-made, sturdy, and easy to use.An hour into my sewing machine explorations (I am a total novice), and I can't get the darn thing to sew.It's tricky pulling up the lower thread. When I do pull it up, the machine jams immediately with the first stitch, resulting in that dreaded "bird's nest."The bobbin case keeps popping out.I was initially able to resolve this by adjusting the bobbin tension.But after another 20 minutes of sewing, this has started all over again, and no amount of tension adjustment makes any improvement.30 minutes of Googling leads me to speculate that I've either damaged the needle or messed up the hook timing.Not sure how to adjust the hook timing, since it's not described in the manual.How about replacement needles?Can't figure out where to get those either.

This is an ongoing problem with Euro-pro products, and the reason that I will probably never buy another Euro-pro machine again.It's extremely difficult, if not impossible, to find replacement parts.And the manual is so simplistic that it's just a joke.Useless.I know that a lot of my problems are just because I've never used a sewing machine before, but the cryptic instruction manual and the absolute dearth of information available on the internet for this machine make it a total bust for me.One more try tonight before it gets sent back.

**Updated - ** I returned this and got a Singer that was cheaper, but with fewer functions.It works beautifully, and I love the reassurance that having a common brand brings.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Euro-Pro Stitch Art 18-Stitch Sewing Machine - 8260

Product Description:
The 8 layersof denim that can be precision-stitched together and included under the needle of the Euro-Pro Stitch Art 18-Stitch Sewing Machine are evidence of its sewing power. This exceptional machine offers precision quality stitching on all fabrics, from silk to cotton to denim to leather. It includes an automatic buttonhole function and perfect stitching capabilities within 18 stitch functions. It easily converts from a flatbed to a convenient free-arm sewer. Solid metal gears ensure durability; a built-in automatic needle-threader helps eliminate eyestrain. Imported. 14Hx11-1/2Wx6D".

Buy cheap Euro-Pro Stitch Art 18-Stitch Sewing Machine - 8260 now

Singer LockStitch 2000 Sewing Machine Review

we tried this item as well as the Discovery Item and both have the same flaws...very difficult to use.Me Mum-in-law is an expert, and she says have them start on a real machine...I should have listened.My 6 year old wants to learn to sew clothes for her dolls, as well as become a quilter.I was really hoping that this unit would have the safety features that allow for a child----and it does, but it is so difficult to operate for an adult, that there is no way the child will figure it out.Threading is very difficult, even for small adult hands, so I simply don't see how a child will be able to operate this.Better to listen to Me Mum in Law, a wonderful and talented woman; a Master of Crafts. Use a smaller adult machine and use caution and oversight.Besides, your daughter will love the one on one interaction with a precious Mom, Grammie, or Auntie!(As a dad, I just don't cut it in this area!)

Click Here to see more reviews about: Singer LockStitch 2000 Sewing Machine

Product Description:
Young seamstresses will delight in making real fashions with their very own child-sized sewing machine. The Singer LockStitch creates a strong, neat lockstitch and really sews. With a two-speed control, on/off switch, tension dial, bobbin winder and foot pedal control, girls have everything they need to begin sewing. There's even a working light, control indicator lights, and spare bobbin and needle. A project book gives helpful hints and ideas. Requires 3 "D" batteries (not included) or an AC adapter, sold separately. Measures 12" x 9.5".

Buy cheap Singer LockStitch 2000 Sewing Machine now