Recommend which sewing machine to buy from these two?

[Missushb]

Thanks, I am a complete novice. Looking for a machine for simple stuff like hems or simple stitching and maybe curtains in the future!

www.hobbycraft.co.uk/brother-sewing-machine-ls14/561344-1000

Or

www.hobbycraft.co.uk/singer-sewing-machine-1408-white/585992-1000

[IDontDoIroning]

www.jaycotts.co.uk/products/janome-2090#.U8JHsWK9KSM

We use these in my sewing class. I've got a much more expensive brother machine but these are very good and good vfm.

[PixieofCatan]

I'm a novice sewer (?!) & I have the next Brother up from the LS14 I think, the LX17. If you can stretch to £109 it's a good little machine. I make rat hammocks on mine mostly but am hoping to make smallish curtains on it this summer.

[Penneyanne]

I have the Brother LS14 which I bought last year as a complete novice...as in had no clue whatsoever. I am very happy with it and can do simple basic stuff like turn up trousers/skirts etc so it is perfect for this.

[AdorableAbbie]

Brother Ls14 will do for a novice but the 1408 Singer has more features which can work for you long term :)

[JustAShopGirl]

I work in a "certain craft shop" Singer every time for me. (based on returns etc....)

[Sandthorn]

I second idontdoironing

a) if you can afford £100, spend £100
b) buy from a bona fide sewing machine shop, like Jaycotts or Bamber
c) choose Janome or Elna over Singer or Brother
d) get to the shop for a test drive if you can

[EmNetta]

As a novice, I chatted to shop manager and decided on Janome. This was about 25 years ago, and apart from renewing light-bulbs occasionally, I've had no problems and it's still going well.

[HappyinShropshire]

Janome for me as well. They are the best IMHO