Should I be wary of buying a sewing machine at Costco?
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melon_rose asked:
I was hoping to read reviews of the machine, but the particular model number they’re selling isn’t anywhere online, not even on the manufacturer’s website! I know that companies sometimes manufacture Costco-exclusive items that aren’t sold anywhere else, but I also know that these items are sometimes subpar (not as high quality as their regular products).
For these reasons, should I be hesitant to buy a sewing machine at Costco?
Thanks so much for your help!
Troy
I was hoping to read reviews of the machine, but the particular model number they’re selling isn’t anywhere online, not even on the manufacturer’s website! I know that companies sometimes manufacture Costco-exclusive items that aren’t sold anywhere else, but I also know that these items are sometimes subpar (not as high quality as their regular products).
For these reasons, should I be hesitant to buy a sewing machine at Costco?
Thanks so much for your help!
Troy
August 2nd, 2009 at 9:32 pm
Always ask about a warranty, for starters. Go check out the company’s reputation online or by word of mouth. Ask around and see if anyone else has purchased this machine.
If you only need a simple machine for beginning sewing, or even experienced simple sewing (I’ve been sewing for 20+ years and make most of my own clothes, but still use a very simple sewing machine by choice) this machine will probably be fine. I bought WalMart’s bottom-of-the-line over 4 years ago and use it a lot; I’ve never had any trouble with it. I get a simple machine so I can clean and oil it myself. That makes them run beautifully, and keeps them going for many years.
If you’re looking for a heavy-duty machine or one that does fancy stitches or embroidery, you’d be much better off to purchase one from a local dealer who will be able to look at it for you when things go awry.
August 4th, 2009 at 2:30 am
You should not hesitate at all.
First you can find a similar model that the manufacturer is making and evaluate that.
Second, I have found that the made for Costco items are very often superior.
Third. Costco has a marvelous return policy. For most items there is no time limit at all. Check, however before you buy. Save your receipt in case the sewing machine is no longer in the Costco database when you return it.
Fourth, my wife bought a Costco sewing machine a good number of years ago and loves it.
August 6th, 2009 at 8:52 pm
I bought a sewing machine at Costco about a year ago. I had the same concerns as you, but went ahead with the purchase after checking out some similar machines by the same manufacturer.
It is a great machine so far! Even when I let my 85 year old friend use it, it worked fine. I have had no problems whatsoever.
August 7th, 2009 at 4:57 pm
I work part time at a Viking Sewing Gallery and not that I am going to suggest that you buy a Viking, I am going to suggest you buy a machine somewhere that you know you can get help if you need it. We have so many people who buy machines at say, Wal-Mart and then when they need help with it, there is no one to help them. We do what we can, but they are not our machines and so we can’t do much. I’m sure the brands they have at Costco are good, just be careful. If you are a very experenced sewer it may be ok. If not, I would definately get your machine at a reputable sewing establishment.
August 9th, 2009 at 2:33 am
I would not buy one except from a qualified dealer. You have no support on how to use it, how to use any extra feet etc. Should you have them… Get to know your dealer, and you will have continued support..repair if needed and all. They will know your machine and what needs to be done to keep it in the best working order for you…So, as you can see my answer would be “No”.. I would not buy from
Wal-Mart or any other stores like that. Go to the Qualified Dealer in your area… They have all prices for machines on to suit your needs…