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Why do people love vintage sewing machines so much? The debate of vintage vs. modern is something I see discussed in Facebook sewing groups all the time…
Someone inevitably asks what sewing machine is the best, and people instantly respond that you should find an old, mechanical sewing machine.
This makes no sense to me.
I admire the beauty of vintage machines, and there is no denying the fact that they are heavy duty and built to last. However, modern sewing machines have SO MANY ADVANTAGES.
I’m not trying to start an argument, but I truly don’t understand why people insist that vintage sewing machines are the better choice. If you’ve never sewn with a modern sewing machine, you don’t even know what you’re missing. Sure, you don’t “need” any of the special features on modern machines to sew garments, but they make sewing a lot easier and more fun.
I have obviously formed a bias towards modern sewing machines, but I know choosing between vintage and modern is a matter of opinion. I’ve created a pros and cons list to help you decide for yourself.
Vintage Sewing Machines: Pros and Cons
When I say, “vintage,” I’m referring to sewing machines that were built at least 40 years ago and have no computerized parts. I realize everyone may have a little different picture in their head. Some sewing machines are more ‘vintage’ than others. Here’s a general pros and cons list of sewing on a vintage sewing machine:
| PROs | CONs |
|---|---|
| · Cheap (sometimes free) and easy to find second hand, with the caveat that you might not get all of the original parts or the user manual. · Durable, metal frame that is hard to break. · A work of art and a conversation piece. · Less expensive to repair, but it may be difficult to find replacement parts. · Beginner friendly, mechanical functions. · You’re saving a machine from a landfill. · Can sew heavyweight fabric with ease. · Will still be sewing 20+ years from now. · Some can be used without electricity. | · Many only have a straight stitch, and even the vintage machines with a zig-zag stitch don’t have decorative stitches. · More maintenance is required because you have to apply oil in several places. · Difficult to thread. Some don’t even have a built-in bobbin winder. · Poor lighting. Many don’t even have a built-in lightbulb. · Requires several steps to create a buttonhole. |
Modern Sewing Machines: Pros and Cons
Modern sewing machines are computerized. They have a lot of fancy features that make sewing easier once you learn how to use your machine. Some cool computerized features you can find on a modern sewing machine include an automatic needle threader, multiple alerts when you’re doing something wrong or running low on thread, an automatic thread cutter, a button to position your needle in the up or down position, a button to tie a knot in your thread, programmable foot pedals to backstitch with a back kick, and even add-on embroidery units. If the special features aren’t enough to get you excited, here’s a more general pros and cons list of sewing on a modern sewing machine:
| PROs | CONs |
|---|---|
| · Tons of stitch options. · Several computerized functions. · Easy to thread. Most have an automatic or semi-automatic needle threader. · Some have alerts for when you’re running low on thread. · Lightweight for better portability, although the plastic parts could also be seen as a con. · Often comes with a warranty. · More video tutorials for learning. · Some have accessibility features, such as a button to sew instead of a foot pedal. | · Higher maintenance costs because of computerized parts and screens. · The computers inside modern sewing machines can go obsolete, just like any type of computer. You can expect a modern machine to last for 15 to 25 years. · More expensive. Modern sewing machines range in price from $150 to $25,0000. (I’m not joking). The higher-end sewing machines have so many bells and whistles you’ll be amazed. But, they come at a price. |
For me, in the battle of vintage vs modern sewing machines, modern is the clear winner. The pros and cons seem to speak for themselves. I know you might have a different opinion, and that’s ok. You’ll definitely encounter some diehards out there who swear by their vintage sewing machines. I’m not trying to offend you! The winner of the vintage vs modern sewing machine battle will be different for everyone based on your needs and wants.
If you want to trade in your vintage sewing machine for a modern one, I recommend getting the Bernette b79. That’s the machine I use, and I love it. It has so many cool features that will blow your mind.
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