How is the effectiveness of mini sewing machines?

In My Humble Opinion
1

I know this is a strange question.

I’ve recently come across mini sewing machines being sold, and it appears they have been out in the market for a long while. I like that they are portable, easy to set up.

However, I am puzzled why their use hasn’t caught on?

I had hoped to purchase one to do clothing alterations. I have been spending hundreds or even thousands to alter my pants, jeans and shirts. If it is easy to use, I wouldn’t mind to learn how to use and alter my own - simple alterations such as shortening pants and shirt darts.

Anyone could share their experience with these mini machines? Can they be used for alteration?

2

Are you asking about battery powered hand held machines, or larger AC powered portable machines? Do you have a link?

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3

No specific models in mind actually.
But I was generally thinking about those AC powered ones, yet small and portable.

4

Moderator Action

Since this is seeking personal experiences, let’s move it to IMHO.

Moving thread from General Questions to In My Humble Opinion.

5

It’s not so much they haven’t “caught on” as sewing in general has become much less common among people these days.

Yes.

While the machines have some conveniences they aren’t as sturdy/durable as machines not considered portable. Handle them gently. They are intended for occasional simple sewing, not, say, production quilt making. Quality matters - try to do at least a little research regarding reliability.

There is a bit of a learning curve for doing alternations well. You’ll probably get an adequate result from the start, but great results take a little practice.

They’re also good for simple repairs.

6

Having used home sewing machines with retail prices ranging from $80 to &15,000 (yes, fifteen thou…) I can say that the machines below about $300 will be seriously cheap in all the wrong ways and are counter-productive because they will annoy you with skipped stitches, jams, and being generally cranky cusses.

If you just want to shorten sleeves on dress shirts, a cheap machine will work, but altering heavier things like jeans will be just beyond their capacity.

7

While I agree with you in general, my favorite machine that I’ve used for piecing a dozen full size quilts retails for around $150. You have to be a lot more careful with your research at that price, but there are solid machines out there for much less than $300.

I’m only bothering to point this out because I’d hate to see the OP settling for some POS because he thinks he would otherwise need to spend big bucks for a quality machine.

8

Actually I just need a machine for shortening pants and shirt darts. No quilts.

Would a mini one do in this case?