These days, when you decide you want to buy a sewing machine, there is a large range of styles, models, and sewing machine price from which to choose and can be rather confusing. However, if you know what to look for while you're buying, it's a bit easier.

Of all the tools you'll buy for your sewing room, the sewing machine is the largest investment by far, so you'll want to make sure it is the right one for you.

1) First, decide on how you'll be utilizing your sewing machine. Will you be sewing clothing, piecing and creating quilts, working with leather or denim, or creating embroidered items? The reason this is so important is because each sewing machine features different capabilities and you'll want to choose the one that will meet your specific needs.

2) Do you want an electric, mechanical, computerized, compact or serger sewing machine? The answer to this question will narrow your field quite a bit.

3) Do some research on sewing machine brand names, features, and price ranges. Check customer reviews as well to get an idea how well people either like or dislike a certain model of machine.

4) Before you even leave the house, decide on how much you can spend for your machine. The range of prices for sewing machines can range from under $100 for a basic model, to over $8,000 for a machine that does practically everything for you except cut your fabric. Be careful not to buy a sewing machine based on everything you want to learn "someday", but rather for the purposes for which you'll actually use it once you bring it home.

5) It is a good idea to attend some classes in your local area and talk to other people about their sewing machine. Be sure to ask a lot of questions! Some stores have several machines set up and will allow customers to give them a trial run.

6) Where will you spend your time sewing? If you have a larger space available, the size of your machine may not matter. However, if you are using a smaller area, you may want to consider a compact version to save on space.

7) Will you buy a sewing machine online or from a locally owned store? If you are purchasing online, make sure the dealer is reputable. Check the reviews left for the dealer and make sure to verify their address and phone number. Given the weight of a sewing machine, inquire about the shipping costs prior to placing an order, and ask about their return policy.