Job Discussion Forums

[allycupe]

I have a few questions for anyone out there who is crafter.

I'm a sewer, knitter and crafter and I'm wondering about supplies in Borneo. Because I'd be moving for Canada I will need a new sewing machine (well plus I REALLY want a new one). I can find one here or order one with 220 power but I'm wondering what the prices are like over there.

I would be looking for a high end machine most likely a Husqvarna Viking or something similar.

Information on fabric and yarns is much needed too!

Thanks

[gajackson1]

Hello, Ally -

I have to admit - this is not a topic I know well - someone else will need to step in here. But the news I have is probably encouraging!

This region is pretty/very well known for its cloths/textiles. Tailor/seamstress shops abound, and there are beautiful fabrics choices. When I return (if I have to go & come back), I will be looking for someone to make curtains for my house (I have a lot of uncovered windows with the light tint film; it isn't a privacy issue because I live above/back/away from anyone near me), and finding part-time seamstresses for that seems easy!

On the other hand, I haven't seen so much in the way of western patterns??? (When my sis & I were growing up, she bought clothes for us & my Dad, but sewed a lot/most of her own clothes & my sis's dresses). So I am not quite sure how that part works .

As for the machine, a little digging pulled this up -

Brunei

Bl�ndal SDN BHD
Blk B2 Chempaka Shopping Complex Mile 1.5
Jalan Tutong, Bandar Seri Begawan BA 1912
BS8670 Brunei Darussalam
Phone: 673-2-220164, 236069
Fax: 673-2-220464

But no e-mail address for Brunei? I saw Lux sewing machines on the page, but no Husqs.

They did provide an online feedback form -

http://www.blondal.net/content.php?cat=81&page=163

The other choice might be to post something up, or search the ads, at www.bobwhatson.com

Best of luck! If you get here in time, matching with the Big Sale promotions, you will be able to score a LOT of fabric at good prices!

Glen

[celtica]

I have not seen many sewing machines here that are not industrial ...home sewing is rare, as the tailors are so (comparatively) cheap and plentiful.

Electricity is 240 volt here by the way.....

I would bring my own machine if I was you...

Limitless polyester (Very hot!) from as cheap as $1 a metre. Good cotton /linen fabric is more rare though there are a couple of good well-stocked shops. Cheaper than the west, but not bargain basement prices.

The only knitting yarn I have seen is in gaudy colors and is all nylon/fake wool...VERY sweaty to knit here!

Beading (bright bling galore!!!) VERY popular, so lots of beads, ribbons, 'glitz' craft stuff available..... as for artistic, restrained materials....well you would have to search around, but you would probably find bits and pieces in various places.

There are art/craft classes held every so often by enthusiasts wishing to share ideas...they are usually the best source of info for supplies.

If you do bring your machine, I would stock up on some very basic coloured good quality sewing thread to begin.... the thread here is very poor quality ...mainly over-locking thread used for everything...breaks very easily, so most tailors double sew seams.

[allycupe]

interesting, thanks celtica and glen!

thanks for the tip when it comes to yarn. I'm an avid knitter and assume I'll have to switch to cotton, bamboo and linen when I move there however I always say I knit to stay sane so giving it up isn't an option....LOL.