On other hand, a strong sales pitch can also steer you in wrong direction. Paying for a top of line model doesn't mean you are getting machine you will be happiest with. You must resist urge for that impulse buy. Go home and talk to someone who sews. Find out their experiences and listen to what they have to say. Again, take your time with this decision.

If you have visited all dealers, and test driven their machines visit them all again. Visit again when you are rested and can make a clear decision. Go back and take a second look at those machines. You are looking at them with new eyes now. Maybe there are a few things you never noticed first time that stand out now. What about that foot pedal, is it comfortable? Do you want even feed feature? Does machine run smoothly and quietly? Are there more programmes than you will ever use? If so, make a mental note and you can scale down your possible choices. This second visit will tell you more than you expect.

Ask about warranty that comes with each machine. Be sure you know who is responsible for standing behind it, your dealer or manufacturer. Are repairs made locally or will you have to pack everything up and send it away.

Be very sure you understand what is included with sewing machine. Which feet, how many bobbins and what about a manual. The manual is very important. You will refer to manual time after time so it should be a good reference guide to all accessories and stitch designs along with any other functions. The manual should be full of pictures and diagrams for basic sewing as well as clear directions. If your manual isn't helpful, do you want to go searching out answers every time you have a problem. I wish I had a penny for every time someone has emailed me with a problem that their manual doesn't answer.

Be sure you get your sales agreement in writing and keep your copy in a safe place. Nothing less will do.

The bottom line is you must do some work before you ever sew your first stitch. If you make effort and educate yourself, rewards of a great sewing machine are yours.

My point is, don't get caught in this sort of situation. If you can't fill their requirements, don't take job on. Not all customers realize what they are doing when they ask for something to be done. They don't realize time it takes, work involved or know how required to make a quality product on time. It is your job, as seamstress, to explain this to potential customer. Your quality of work is what will set you apart from all others. The impression you leave with customer, good or bad, stays with them. Always remember that.

I could go on and on about pitfalls of sewing for others, this is just a reminder to not underestimate yourself or to let customer talk you into something you are not sure of. Remember, you are in drivers seat.