Are you considering purchasing a used second-hand sewing machine? here are our 5 useful tips for purchasing a second-hand sewing machine.
Sewing machines are known to last forever and buying a used second-hand sewing machine is generally a In this article you can read our list of 5 important things you should do when purchasing a used second-hand sewing machine
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Warranty
If the sewing machine has a remaining warranty, make sure that it's valid!
When purchasing a used sewing machine that has a remaining warranty, you should make sure that the sewing machine is fulfilling the requirements. Most manufacturers require receipts. but some require different types of services along the way. Make sure that the sewing machine you are buying meets those requirements. You can find more details about the warranties they offer and the requirements by checking the manufacturer's website or looking it up on google. if it's difficult to find any useful information you can look up contact information on the manufacturer's website. Some stores do also offer separate warranties. Make sure that you are meeting those requirements as well. Some stores are not letting the warranty follow the machine but the customer instead. That means that the store warranty is not useful when you own the sewing machine. If you are unsure about the store warranty I recommend contacting the store in question and asking about the warranty. A good rule when it comes to warranties and second-hand purchases is that, unless the previous owner is a lawyer they usually don't know these things, so I highly recommend looking that up yourself.
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Service and maintenance
Make sure that the sewing machine is maintained properly.
A mechanical sewing machine does require services to function properly. However, most of the computerized sewing machines don't have mandatory services, but it is recommended that you service these machines as well. The reason why a mechanical sewing machine requires more maintenance is that they have more moving parts and requires (more) oil and grease than a computerized sewing machine. When purchasing a used sewing machine, Make sure that it has undergone the recommended services by the manufacturer, especially if it's a mechanical sewing machine.
If it's a computerized sewing machine the service is not as important. However, there can be software issues that can be easily fixed with software updates. If you cant do these updates yourself it can cost between 20 to 100 USD to get it updated at a sewing machine store. But don't worry, Software issues on sewing machines are very rare. If the model you are purchasing has software issues you will find out by doing a quick google search. Some maintenance you can do yourself. Make sure that the sewing machine is clean. It should not have sewing residue or dust in or around important components. It should be fairly easy to clean as the manufacturer has given you access to these areas with hatches and openings, make sure you locate and inspect them when you are testing the sewing machine.
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Test and inspect
Testing a sewing machine before a purchase can reveal the most crucial errors.
Testing a sewing machine is like test driving a car. You should first inspect it to make sure everything looks good before you test sew it. When you start test sewing the first thing you should pay attention to is the operation. is the fabric nicely led through the machine? When you are done sewing you should closely inspect the seam. If you are left with a messy seam the machine can be threaded wrong or you might be sewing with the wrong needle(s). If the sewing machine hasn't been used in a while it's pretty normal that the seller doesn't remember exactly how to tread it, so you should not consider a broken seam a bad sign at first. If the seam is broken, the bobbin's timing can be off. That's hard to adjust on any sewing machine, especially one you are unfamiliar with. Make sure to truly test the machine. like humans, flaws and errors are easier to spot under pressure. Give the sewing machine multiple layers of fabric and advanced stitching and see how it performs. Listening and feeling are also important under inspection. If you hear a worrying noise, ask about it. Is the sewing machine light flickering? Ask for a new light bulb before you keep on sewing. A flickering light can also mean a more serious power issue. these issues can be fatal. Make sure to also inspect the accessories. Have a list ready of the accessories that are included with the sewing machine. Make sure that it is available and that it works. If you cant test sew the machine before you buy it ask for a video call and test sew it with the seller. Another tip is to write a written agreement that you can return the sewing machine if there is something wrong with it. You should clarify, shipment costs, be oddly specific in the agreement and make sure to clarify how long it's valid. The seller should also take pictures of the sewing machine right before its shipped to you. These pictures are very useful if the sewing machine gets broken in shipping.
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Cords, wires, and faded plastic
Be on the lookout for broken cords or faded plastic.
Broken cord or wires is normal for a sewing machine that has been stored for a while. These broken cables will stop working after a while and it can even lead to a shortage in the sewing machine. Broken cords are also a fire hazard. If the cable is broken you should ask the seller to get you a new cable.
If the plastic is faded in spots on the machine it's also worrying. not only does it weaken the plastic, but the faded spots can also be made by heat and therefore an early sign of a shortage inside the sewing machine.
Spare parts and known errors
Know your machine before you buy it
You should always do research on the sewing machine you are buying. A quick google search can reveal many common problems other are experiencing with the sewing machine. I highly recommend searching the sewing machine up on amazon as well as the review section there is great to uncover errors or things that annoy others with the same sewing machine model. Do also look for spare parts for the sewing machine. Cables, needles, or other important tools should be easy to find by doing a quick google search. Another factor is technology. Some sewing machines are just outdated for a reason!
These tips are not bulletproof and you should always follow your gut feeling when buying a used second-hand sewing machine. You should make sure the model that suits you before you look for your new used second-hand sewing machine.
If you have any tips you would like to share with others, feel free to write them in the comment section below.
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