The guys at Toyota kindly sent me this beautiful machine to review and use to demonstrate here I was really excited and I can say I wasn't dissapointed it's the best machine I've used in a long time, and it only costs £99.00 inc. Delivery.
I think it's great for this credit crunch period, when lots of crafty people are trying to sew their clothes, and make things to sell, or maybe customise something old.
It actually comes in several other designs (See Here)- but i actually chose 'In Bloom' as I think it's the prettiest, and will look most at home on the new bookcase. A bonus about being so pretty is it now lives in the Lounge along with all the colourful books I have.
( The other designs to choose from- I must admit it was a close tie with Tropical)
I was actually very suprised when I unpacked it, how perfect the size is! It weighs enough, not too light so it bounces all over the table when going at a quick pace, but at the same time it's not so heavy you struggle to lift it. (It weighs 7.5Kg)
When I started to use it, the first thing I needed to make was a Tutu for a little Girls Birthday, it glided through two layers of elastic and 8 Layers of tulle, but the thing that delighted me most was the way it is so whisper quiet compared to my other 2 machines!
The bobbin was easy to load, the stitch selector was easy to read, a brilliant machine for an experienced sewer or a novice.
The Machine also includes:
- Free-arm by removing accessory box which is great for sewing sleeves and smaller items.
- Changing foot with clip
- Extra high lift presser foot for sewing thicker materials
- Compact electronic foot control which is nice and wide and very responsive.
- A Bright Sewing light
- Extra length straight stitch (5mm)
- 21 stitch programmes including 4 step buttonholes and stretch stitches
- Buttonhole balance compensation control
- Push lever reverse for going back and fourth, reinforcement.
- Built in tension control featuring simple 'follow the arrows' threading- so you never forget how to thread!
- Clip on presser foot, no need for tools, just clips on in one easy step!
- Fabric range: fine, medium, heavy including: quilting, denim, leather, suede, curtains and soft furnishings- So far I've sewn a range of thicker fabrics, t-shirts, tulle, silk and cottons.
The accessories included in the £99 also was really delightful, it includes:
- Zigzag sewing foot
- Bobbin (3 pcs) and one already loaded with thread.
- Zipper foot
- Standard needles
- Buttonhole foot
- Ball point needle
- Buttonhole cutter
- Screw driver (small)
- Needle plate screw driver
- Spool pin (fitted)
- Oiler
The only thing I do miss is a thread cutter on the left side of the arm, but hey?! I have scissors right!
Overall, a beautiful, powerful and perfect machine which does everything you want it to.
(If you buy one, leave me a comment I'd love to see your machine on your blog!)
how fun for you! I think Toyota, being Japanese would make a perfect machine. I love that you can pick out a little design for it too. Such a great way to customize and make it a little personal. :)
Posted by: Katie Trott | May 12, 2009 at 08:02 PM