Inexpensive sewing machine?

[wildewood]

Hi, I'm a relatively new card maker and a new member here. I didn't find any threads about this so please forgive me if this has been asked before.

I love the look of cards with stitching on them. However, I never learn how to sew and I don't own a sewing machine. Is there an inexpensive machine (less than $50) or an alternative method to get that look? Thanks!

[buggainok]

Many stampers own the Janome Sew Mini for sewing on cards. It is a little more expensive than $50, but you can get it on Amazon for $64. It is a real sewing machine, and not a toy. You can also use it for sewing on fabric. Here is a link:

Amazon.com: Janome Beach Sew Mini Sewing Machine

As an alternative to sewing on your cards, the stitched dies are very popular right now. Lots of companies make them. Just google and look.

Or, you could use your paper piercer to make holes in your cards, and use a pen to connect them to mimic the look of stitches.

[BohemianBelle]

As an alternative, you could get the We Are Memory Keepers 'Sew Easy' Tool. Here is a link to the kit: We R Memory Keepers Sew Easy Starter Kit

You can also purchase just the tool -it comes with one head (basic straight stitch), and a needle for less money (just google "sew easy tool). The kit comes with the piercing mat, however, and I've heard that is necessary to have for best results. You can also purchase additional 'heads' for the tool which make a variety of stitch types.

Hope this helps!

[poppydarling]

I started a thread about this a few months ago — search for "beginner sewing machine?" There were some good ideas in that thread.

I have the Sew Easy and it's pretty time-consuming :-) I just bought this die which mimics the look of stitching on paper, and I love it:

Dies - Wonky Stitches | Avery Elle

[gregzgurl]

Another thought would be to visit a sewing machine repair shop - they often have older, refurbished machines for sale cheap (or Craigslist or yard sales)...

[wildewood]

Thanks for everyone's suggestions. I have stitched dies, but want to try a shaker card with sewn borders. I did try the Sew Easy and didn't love the results. I'll check out the other thread.

[sprtchick]

I had sew easy machine and I felt it was junk. I went to Sears and got their least expensive machine which was 79.00 and it has several different stitch selections. I have had it for several years and only use it on paper/cardstock. I have been very happy with it.