Sewing
Machine Buying Guide - Kids Sewing
Machines
Kids sewing machines are a great introduction
to creative crafting. There's no better way to
get a child interested in sewing than to give
her a children's machine of her very own.
Most machines that are sold
specifically for children are more toy than
tool, which can make discovering sewing pure
fun. Colorful, lightweight, and often
associated with favorite characters like Barbie
and Hello Kitty, these super-simplified
machines fascinate children. While youngsters
are having fun they're developing both
creativity and coordination and laying the
foundation for a lifetime skill.
Early-learner or toy
machines are kid-friendly in more than looks.
They're specially sized for children and
developed with both safety and ease of
operation in mind. They come in both battery
and AC powered versions, and many have dual
power options. Most models include drop-in
bobbins for ease of use and the best also have
finger guards, a special safety feature that
keeps little fingers away from the needle.
Children's sewing machines
aren't the same as mini machines, which are
scaled-down versions of standard machines. Mini
or compact machines more powerful and have
greater speed and capability than those made
just for kids, which makes them a good choice
for youngsters 12 and over.
Factors to consider when
buying kids sewing machines
Age - generally speaking,
even toy machines are best for children at
least eight years of age. Though most brands of
children's machines are designed and
manufactured with safety in mind, younger
children may lack the necessary coordination
for safe use.
Experience - will this be
the child's first exposure to sewing? If so,
the simpler, more basic, and more geared to
learning, the better. Many child's machines are
sold with kits that include instructions for
simple projects along with everything necessary
to complete them.
Type of projects - Some
children's machines produce only a chain
stitch, which is easily pulled out. This is
fine for "pure practice" sewing, but may not be
satisfactory for projects that involve actual
construction or are intended to be
permanent.
Adult supervision and assistance required
Machines made specifically
for children feature super-simple operation and
many have special safety features, but children
will need some instruction and supervision. An
adult should be close at hand when children are
using the machines, especially at first.
If you're looking for a
small sewing machine that's more tool than toy,
mini sewing machines could be just what you're
looking for. Find out more about your sewing
machine options at Specialty Sewing
Machines.
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