ZJ Humbach

Buying the Best Sewing Machine for You

with ZJ Humbach

Don’t be intimidated when it comes time to buy a new sewing machine. ZJ Humbach will help you quickly sort through the different categories of machines, critical specs, marketing labels, and even pricing.

Are you overwhelmed by the various options and numerous stitches on today’s machines? Wondering what are the features and benefits? ZJ will cover all of that.

A new machine is a big purchase, and the best one is based on YOU. Learn how to determine what you really need with a thoughtful evaluation process.

You absolutely need to test drive sewing machines before buying. Get the insider’s look at how to effectively test drive machines and what are the “must ask” questions for the dealer.

Once you are ready to finalize your purchase ZJ will share some tips on how to get the best deal possible along with some key tips for safely bringing your new baby home.

Once you have your new machine you want to protect it. ZJ includes a special bonus project in class: Quilted Machine Cover. The quilted machine cover is easy, fun, and will keep your machine dust free. You’ll also learn how to make and apply double-fold binding.

  • 7 Sessions
  • 1h 24m
ZJ Humbach

ZJ Humbach

ZJ Humbach is a professional longarm quilter and pattern designer who owns and operates Dream Stitcher Quilt Studio in Nederland, Colorado. Her work appears in McCall’s Quilting, Quilters Newsletter, and Quiltmaker magazines. A former Quilters Newsletter editor, she wrote a longarm quilting column, “Finish Line,” for each issue. Now ZJ is a freelance writer for Quilters Newsletter and the Studio Arts Quilt Associates (SAQA) Journal. She also quilts regularly for Connecting Threads. ZJ has enjoyed machine sewing since age 12. She has a strong educational background in clothing construction, tailoring, and interior design plus a Master of Arts Teaching degree with an emphasis on curriculum development and adult education.

Class Resource: Must Have Accessories

Download this PDF for ZJ’s list of must have accessories for your machine

Class Resource: Cost Analysis

Download this PDF for a visual cost comparison of a new machine

Class Resource: Test Drive Checklist

Download this PDF for a check list of what to bring and do when shopping for a new machine

Class Resource: Sewing Machine Comparison Checklist

Download this PDF for a printable checklist you can use to compare the machines when shopping

Class Project: Quilted Sewing Machine Cover

Download this PDF for a shopping and cutting list to make a Quilted Sewing Machine cover for your new machine

Bonus materials available after purchase

How do I know what the Class covers?

Every Class has a free Preview video you can watch, to give you a flavor of the Instructor and the skills or project that will be covered. In addition, the Overview tab includes a thorough written description of the Class. And finally, each Class Session has a brief written summary of the content in that Session, including the length of each Session video. You will get a good feel for the Class content by reviewing these resources.

Can I view a Class on my tablet device or mobile phone?

No problem. Most newer model smartphones or other mobile/tablet devices with an internet connection are able to play the class videos. Simply log in to CRAFT & HOBBY, and you can view any class.

How do I access the Bonus Materials for the class?

Go to view your class, and each individual bonus element is accessible by simply clicking on each item. You’ll find the bonus materials directly below your main class viewer frame. You can access the bonus materials as many times as you would like and/or save them to your device.

Can I print out Class details?

For any Bonus Material that is a PDF Download, yes you can. Just click on the icon/button for the Bonus element you want, and print with your local printer.

What are PDF downloads?

These are simply documents, plans, or written materials that are formatted in a way to print out and retain for reference. By simply clicking on the icon/link for any PDF Download that is included with a Class, you can print that document on your own printer or simply view the contents on your computer/mobile device.

Are there any system requirements to view the Class video content?

Your Class video content is best when viewed on a computer manufactured in the past couple of years with a good broadband Internet connection (not dialup). We also highly recommend using the latest version of Firefox, Safari, or Chrome as your Internet Browser, though recent versions of Internet Explorer will work as well. The recommended screen resolution is 1024 x 768 or larger.

How do I contact Craft And Hobby?

If your question is about the Class content, please use the Class Discussion benefit to ask your question online – and you'll receive feedback from the Class Instructor. Even your fellow Class participants may jump in to offer tips and advice from their experience. If you have other questions or need help, you can email us at craftandhobby@program-director.net or call us toll-free, at 1-833-363-1239. Service Representatives will be available Monday-Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Central time, excluding normal holidays.

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