Travel machines, class machines, back-up machines, RV/second home machines. What do you call them?
It’s always interesting to see the different machines brought to classes that I attend. Featherweights to Berninas and everything in between. Some attendees bring bigger machines (8.5 – 11″ throat space), but most tend to bring a smaller machine to class. FYI – most take along machines measure less than 16.5″ inches wide and weight less than 16 pounds. The space under the harp is usually 6.5 inches or less. Me? I generally take a Baby Lock Jubilant.
The Janome 3160/4120 models and Brother computerized models under $300 were certainly well represented this past week at Mountain QuiltFest in Pigeon Forge. I’m not surprised. I see something similar at home, but with Baby Lock and Juki added to the mix as those dealers also serve my immediate area. Definitely not the expensive TOL machines we see featured in sewing machine advertising.
What about a Singer Featherweight? They are an absolute joy to sew on! Keep in mind that you are only able to sew straight stitches with this machine. Any other type of stitching requires a clunky adapter. Buttonholes are beautiful, but zigzag stitches not so much. Realistically, your appliqué options will be limited to straight stitch by machine and invisible/decorative stitches done by hand.
If you travel frequently/RV full-time and need a budget friendly machine that will handle just about any class you could ever take, I’d look at a Brother ST150HDH or a Janome TM30(Elnita EC30). Both machines cover all the essential quilting stitches and include a 1/4″ foot, but the Brother offers a few more buttonhole and decorative stitch options, plus includes a walking foot. Need extra sewing space? Order an acrylic table in your preferred size from Sew Steady or Tailor Made Tables. Need to protect your machine while on the road? Consider a $20 padded cooler bag from Buc-cees. Flying with your machine? Always take it on board as a carry on. NEVER, EVER check your sewing machine as luggage.
Note: The Janome Jem 3/4 size machines are also an option. The Janome 760 would be my first choice for a travel machine, especially if I flew often with a sewing machine. The caveat? While wonderful little machines, the computerized Jem models are more expensive and sew much slower than the Brother ST150HDH and Janome TM30 machines.
Do your research and test sew on the machines that interest you. At the end of the day, only you can decide which travel machine will best fit your needs and budget.
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