i've convinced myself that i NEED a new machine.
need. not want.
:)
so many choices...
bernina.
janome.
hasqvarna.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
this poses serious questions:
what machine do yall have???
what machine do yall want???
& who wants to give me one of these for christmas?!?!
:P
need. not want.
:)
so many choices...
bernina.
janome.
hasqvarna.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
this poses serious questions:
what machine do yall have???
what machine do yall want???
& who wants to give me one of these for christmas?!?!
:P
158 comments:
I have the Bernina 820 and love it. Would buy it again and again.
I'm in the same boat. I've had a Husqvarna for 12 years and absolutely LOVE it but it's really basic and it's time to upgrade. If this says anything, I have not had to get it serviced in all those years (even though I'm starting to feel like I need to.) I'm looking at the Bernina 440 QE. We'll see. Good luck and hope you get that baby for Christmas!!
I have a Singer, Pfaff, Kenmore and Viking. Hands down, the Viking Diamond is just the greatest machine.
Sounds like you will be having more than one heart to heart with Santa. :)
I have the Bernina 820 and ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT!!!! There isn't one thing I don't like or wish it had. I bout it last October. I have since bought several of the accessories and even the quilt frame that goes with it. I haven't had a chance to use the frame yet :(
Good luck shopping for a new machine!
I have the Juki TL 98Q which is a straight stitch only and so far I really like it. I was tempted by the Janome Horizon, but that was not in my budget...
Love my 15+ yr old Bernina 1630. Would purchase the Bernina 440 QE in a heart beat if I was in "the market"
I have the Janome 6600P and I just love it! In fact I just bought another Janome- the 3160QDC to take to classes and retreats! I love Janomes! I also have the Husqvarna- Mega Quilter, that I keep set up on a frame to quilt my own quilts with! Love that too! It's all in what your wanting your machine to do!! What your needs are! I looked at Bernina's too, but am glad I went with the Janome! Hope that helps!
I have a Bernina 440QE and love it. I don't want or need another machine - this machine is perfect for what I do which is mostly all quilting related.
I am not the one to ask, I have my mom's hand-me-down (she didnt REALLY want to part with it but once she saw how much I have been sewing she admited she didnt need TWO machines to sit on the dining room table) that's oh 14 years old and bottom of the line.
I know my next machine I want the blanket stitch, and a slightly larger throat (neck?) but I don't need ALL the bells and whistles. So I'd say start with a list of "MUST have" features some "would really like" and then the machien has to have everythign on the first list and then see how many of the second list you can get with a reasonable price (for example one machine from one brand might have everythign on both lists but be WAY too spendy and another one could have everythign on the first list and 1/2 the second but is a much better price...get it?)
I am thinking about taking money out of my tips each week and saving up, maybe next year for christmas or for my birthday in April I can buy a new machine (so dec 2011 or april2012 =) )
You couldn't have asked at a better time!
I've had 2 Berninas in the past. I started with a basic machine and then upgraded 2 years ago to a nicer machine with embroidery.
Just last weekend I bought the Janome Horizon and I LOVE it. I used to have a quilting frame and recently sold it b/c we are moving and won't have room for it. After quilting on a frame for 5 years, I was going back to quilting on a regular machine....and the 7.5" throat on my Bernina just felt too small.
I debated between the Bernina 820 and the Horizon. I tested the Horizon twice, and had a nice heart to heart with the dealer about Janome vs. Bernina (she's sold just about every brand at one point, and Janome for 9 years now). I think I tested the Bernina twice too.
In the end, I couldn't justify the cost of the Bernina. I was considering it b/c the dealer would let me trade in my current Bernina, but I think I was ready for a change.
I researched both machines online a lot, and there are some scary reviews out there! Both brands seemed to have quirks in the beginning. After a week of playing, I love the Horizon though! I haven't had any problems, and it's performed even better than I thought! I just sewed a skirt with the AMH velveteen, and the Horizon stitched so beautifully through all of the layers. I had a terrible time with my Bernina skipping stitches.
Feel free to email me if you want more info (sorry I wrote a novel, lol!).
After the holidays (and after all of my holiday sewing!) I think I'm going to blog about the machine in more detail. :)
Last January I got the Husqvarna-Viking Mega Quilter. I.LOVE.IT. It's a straight stitch only, but for me, that's fine. I have a cheapo Janome for anything needed other than the straight stitch. I've only brought out my old machine once and that was to piece some batting w/ a zig-zag stitch. Anyway, i love my Mega Quilter and quilting and piecing on it is a dream! It's a very fast machine, and I love that!
I have a Janome 9000 that sews beautifully, but I don't use it for quilting. I have a Pfaff with the integrated walking foot. I love that machine and I love that integrated walking foot.
I have a Bernina 910 that is about 25 years old. I just love it. I mostly just straight stitch so it is perfect for me. There are about 10 other decorative stitches that I sometimes use. I just had it completely tuned up and it is like brand new. I guess youreally have to decide home much bling you will really use. That Bernina 830 looks pretty tasty though. You should go sit on Santa's lap and see what he says . . .
I so want a Bernina, but I cannot afford one, my sewing machine died the week before last, on black friday, I got my early Christmas present from my husband, a second hand Janome Memory Craft 3000. I got it for a great price, and also my local quilt store owner gave me a 1 year warranty, plus my 3 quilting feet for free (walking, darning, and 1/4" foot)
It runs like a cadillac compared to my 11 year old singer that died. So quiet, it has auto lock, and some pretty stitches. i am having a lot of fun playing with it. i have loved to get the new janome horizon, maybe someday. good luck shopping rachel, let me know what you decide :O}
hope to talk to you soon.
things are finally looking up for us, hopefully the new year brings lots of good things, and put this somewhat trying year behind us.
♥♥
I have the Bernina 640 and love it!
I bought a Janome 6600 this year and love it. The new Janome Horizon is very nice...and definitely has some features that I wish I had on my 6600. The 6600 DOES not have a free arm, so that does make some things a bit interesting...especially things like appliqueing cute t-shirts for kiddos and hemming pants. Other than that...LOVE IT TO BITS!!!
In the market myself, so I'm watching your comments. I'm considering a Juki or a Janome - some days I want the bells and whistles and other days I just want to quilt my quilts!
I have a Bernina 230 Patchwork Edition and I ADORE it. I sew in fits and bursts and it copes very well with that intense use/neglect cycle ! Love the snap off feet (that are utterly rocksolid) Machine quilts beautifully. Seriously. Love. It.
No one has mentioned this one yet - I have a Pfaff Tiptronic 2040 with built in walking foot and I love it. NO issues in over 10 years and I'm made LOTS of quilts. Good luck Rachel.
I am going to ask Santa for a Bernina!
Hi: I too am desperate for a machine - I want an embroidery Husqvarna machine. Hoping, hoping, hoping - I think the only way possible is if "Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus." I have a 32 year old Kenmore machine but it is on its last legs - sometimes at night I think I hear it wheezing and choking.
I am a bernina gal all the way, although I do own a babylock embroidery/sewing machine I don't sew on it...
I own a Bernina 440... I was sucked into it in Paducah during the show...and came home and bought it. I do love it although I don't use the BSR like I thought I would...
My advice? Go to all the dealers with a list of what you want your machine to do for you...then test drive them...take fabric with you...write down all the questions beforehand. It gets confusing..
Good luck...and sorry...I don't seem to find your name on my expanding christmas list.
Try them at the shop!
Can you do a small project on all three of them?
Every machine has good things and things you'll miss having. (+ & -)
Everyone likes their own machine, the one you're used to; that's not the same as: this is the best machine.
Try them for yourself and decide!
Wishing you a lot of good sewing (and hard thinking)!
I have a bernina 440 QE and love it, I also have a Juki 98 QE I use on the frame, which it copes with admirably. Try, try and try them all some more until your heart sings and tells you which one just has to come home with you! Happy shopping!
Had a Janome and never again.. it was the biggest lemon ever! I have a husqvarna sapphire 870 now had it for about 18 months and its great (love the automatic scissors). I did look at the bernina 440BSR but I went with the bigger throat... good luck, we are spoiled for choices I think.. I had a look at the new Bernina (830?) its a huge beast of a machine and they are very expensive down here in Australia (worth more than my car) so I figured if I can't drive it I am not paying that for a machine! LOL
Lissa
Australia
My wish list has a Bernina 440QE. Sadly, that is my wish, as it is not in the budget anytime to soon. I will stick with my Brother machines until one day the budget grows, or my sewing business GROWS.
Have fun!
I am no help! I own a Singer 8280 Prelude. Ha! And most days I do not like it.
Let me know when you find someone willing to give you a new machine, maybe I could get one too :) Heck, I'll take your old one.
I have more than one Bernina; and older 1080 and a newer 440. I would LOVE to have one of the new Bernina 8 series machines, but I don't think I've been THAT good this year! ;-P
Seriously though, I am a big believer in the quality and tradition behind Bernina machines. I out-sewed a Janome and a Brother before switching to Bernina brands, and Bernina always keeps up with me!
I have a Bernina 135 Quilt edition which is about 9 years old now. I have been sewing on that thing solidly (like 15hrs/wk) for about 5 years straight now. In all my 9 years with it, i've never had it serviced and it is still running like a dream. It's a basic model, but it's reliable and sews through anything. I have 3 Bernina's and love them all. I'm less in love w/ my Janome and Singer machines. I think that Bernina makes a quality product but research the reviews well at patternreview.com before you buy whatever brand you decide on and ALWAYS take a test drive.!! Good luck (sorry 'bout the book)
I have the Bernina 440 quilters edition with the stitch regulator after owning another Bernina that I had for 18 years. It is still going and my sister in law uses it now. The Bernina with stitch regulator was the best money I've ever spent. Love it!
I bought a Pfaff 2440 quilt expresion a few years ago. I love it! I had always been a bernina owner, but i really like this machine over any machine I've ever used. It has the built in walking foot: a must have!!! It drives so well and is easy to use all the features. good luck deciding--it's really hard to choose!
i have the bernina 440qe and I love it! It's been an amazing machine, I've had it for three years now and never had a single problem :)
I just got the Aurora 430 with the BSR and love it. The 440 QE is similar, but the only added feature is additional stitches. The 430 with the BSR is about $500 less and has everything that I need. It's fabulous. I was so impressed with how smooth it was! I'll be curious to hear what you end up with!
I have the Juki TL-98Q. LOVE IT! LOVE IT! LOVE IT!
I have a Bernina 1001 that's coming up on 15 years old. Great machine. When I took it in for it's second professional cleaning ever, the store had a high-end Bernina that had a larger throat space. If I were to get a new machine, that would be my big requirement. I quilt my quilts myself and getting a full quilt through the average throat of my current machine can be a challenge.
I'm 100% a Bernina girl!
I have a Bernina 230 Patchwork Edition. I only started sewing in april 2009 and this is my first machine, meant to last! I like the way it sews and am very comfortable with all the functions now. a friend let me have a try on a Janome Memorycraft. The sewing itself went a little smoother than my Bernina but you have to have a screwdriver and remove a screw to change the foot and that would drive me mad! The Bernina just snaps on and off, really easily, I like that better. having used it for a bit, I would like to have had BSR (but the Aurora was twice as expensive with that being the only different thing I would actually use...) and I now really would like the built in scissors! and a kneelift too.. but I can buy this as an accessory to mine anyway. I am very happy with my Bernina and I am lucky to have it (I know a lot of people have much older machines). Goes to show that when being shown a Bernina 8 series or a Horizon, I still would not say no! (Can't tell you which one though :-)
I have had a Viking for a very long time and still have the first Viking. They are wonderful machines, the best lighting space, in the throat and above the needle. The sensor foot and no hands sewing is the best. My machines are work horses and I will never go to a different brand.
Love my Janome 6600, could not live without it. Struggled with the Husqvarna Sapphire 870 for months questioning as to wether it was me or the machine...it was deffinately the machine!!!
Good luck on your search.
If you want a Bernina 820 I'll sell you mine really cheap. I bought it in April at Paducah, but I'm just not a Bernina girl. It's too heavy and too complicated. I've used it maybe 6 hours and don't love it at all. I love my Janomes.
I love my two bernina's I have a 440 and a 1130. I want a new or second hand serger. any bernina will do.
I have a Brother QC1000 and love it. I also have a wonderful 12 year old Pfaff.
Good luck with your search!
Maybe Santa will bring you one?
Karen
I have a Brother QC 1000 and love it!! Sews very smoothly, has tons of features, etc. Only problem I've had is when it didn't like using some thicker silk thread I was trying out. At least go sit and test it out!!
I'm a Bernina girl too! I have an 830 and 440 and wouldn't trade either for any other machine.
Good luck!
i have a bernina 1230 that i choose to purchase used earlier this year ... it's perfect and sews perfectly ... i know this is not the machine you are interested in, but i believe bernina makes a good workhorse of a machine ... i have an old-style 830 that needs a tune-up and then i'm selling it ... i also have my first *good* sewing machine, a husqvarna 6570 (the burgundy one) that i bought in 1981 ... it runs wonderfully, but does not have the electronics / computer stuff my new-to-me bernina does ... seriously, though, i would love that bsr foot but the price for the machine was waaay more than i wanted to spend ...
good luck on your purchase; there is great advice here, the best being is to try, try, try them out at the dealers (remember, also, you are not just purchasing a machine, but you are buying the dealer, too, so look for honesty and great service ....
I have two machines - a Simplicity that was given to me by my mother-in-law, that I started sewing with; and a Husqvarna Viking Lilly 550, that I bought used from a friend when we worked together at a quilt shop last year. My Viking is a real work horse, and I LOVE it. Eventually I want an Embroidery machine, and would go with Husqvarna again for that, and I also want a Gammill Long-arm for my quilting. I can always dream, can't I? :)
I'm absolutely a Bernina girl. The problem with sewing on a Bernina is that you'll never be able to sew on anything else.
I just this this morning on Flickr. It's about the Janome Horizon. http://www.flickr.com/groups/1071084@N25/discuss/72157625518408690/
I have the Bernie 440QE. It rocks! (they offer 12 month no interest financing! - I'm still paying for mine and have no regrets whatsoever)
hi rachel.
i know i don't really have anything new to add but here are my 2 ¢ worth:
i'm a bernina girl and own a bernina aurora 440 qe for about 2 years. i love my machine, it hasn't had any problems and it takes everything.
however, if i could i'd trade her for another machine. but not any other...the 820! i'd love, love, LOVE to have the bigger space. i think she is nearly 1/3 bigger than my little 'nina...heaven for quilting! okay, i don't mind the other features (like the biiiig bobbin) it has.
i've seen the janome horizon at a craft fair and i have to say it's a nice machine. what i didn't like though, is the horizontal bobbin. it's a no-go for me. just don't like it (because i've had many issues with the bobbin case of my first machine which was a janome-like machine).
when i searched for my sewing machine, i tried the husqvarna sapphire (am i the only one who has to think of bombay sapphire gin? *lol* don't even drink that stuff!). i really liked the space between the needle and the "command center" and it has nice features...it would be a good alternative if you can't spend that much on a bernina...
hope you'll find a "sewing machine sponsor" (and if so, tell him i need a new one, too! :) ).
cheers, julia
I have the Janome 7700 and I absolutely love it. I almost bought a Husqvarna when I was shopping around for an upgrade and I'm glad I settled on my Horizon.
As for the X'mas pressie... I'd like to direct you to your husband... hehe
Pfaff!!! The great thing about a Pfaff is the walking foot can be engaged at all times regardless of what foot you're using. I really want to upgrade mine to the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0. A wonderful machine. If I were you.... choose between Pfaff or Bernina QE 4. If you can convince Santa to bring you one, will you let him know I want one too?
Viking! Mine is the Quilt Designer without embroidery. Bought new when they first came out and have since purchased a used one for a back-up machine. The machine has a floating foot that senses fabric thickness so when quilting a top you don't need a walking foot. To save $$ maybe you could find a machine that was previously owned. Be sure to get one with the sensor foot system.
Oh Rachel where do I begin? When I was younger I started on a 'hand crank' Singer, then at school we had Hasqavarna. the fist machine I bought myself was a Brother, but I didn't like it's tension, I then swapped that for a second hand Bernina, Record it was heavy and old but it sewed everything from horseblankets through to wedding dresses and of course quilts. For the last 10 or sao years I have had a Pfaff, the most amazing little machine that just keeps on giving of itself. I think I'll stick with this one, however, I now have 3 grand-daughters and have bought each of them a Featherweight machine. Each machine must be well over 50 years old and by the time they get to use them probably 60 years, but what a great little machine. So I guess I've gone full circle on brands o machines owned.
Be nice to Santa, you never know what he may deliver.
hugs
Miche'le
I am a Janome girl. I am onmy 2nd Janome, owned a my exell for year but upgraded to a Memory Craft
6600, Love it. Nice big throat, many stictches, automatic button holer - all the things I need. It has a wide working space and an extra table top, but it's not soo good for setting in sleeves etc so I pull out my other machine to do the fiddly jobs that need to sit around the arm.
I have an old Jenome & at the Knitting & Stitching show at Alexandra Palace here in the UK this past October I had a play with the new Jenome Horizon, all I can say is WANT WANT WANT. OMG it was amazing & whomever buys you one.... can they buy me one too? :-)
I just recently purchased a Bernina 230 Patchwork Edition. I haven't spent alot of time on it, but so far I love it. Wished I could've gotten one with the embroidery feature, just didn't have the $$ to spend at this time.
I have the Bernina Aurora 440 and love it, I would buy it again if I had too.
Was looking at the 820 at one time to add as another machine and got mixed responses about it.
Good luck go and try them and work out what out need most.
cheers
Christine
I have one not mentioned yet...
I <3 my Elna 7200- it's now the 7300- It's got a wider throat, loads of decorative stitches but no embroidery if you are looking for that as well. I work at my LSS and they keep trying to sway me to another machne, but I love my Elna!
After doing a lot of research last year and reading other quilters' blogs, I decided on the Elna Quilting Queen that Jodi from http://www.pleasant-home.com uses. She has a review and comparison on this and the Janome on her blog if you are interested. So far, I love my machine and have not had any problems with it.
Good luck in your search and your decision.
The Bernina 440 and I love it - worth every penny.
I would LOVE that Janome. But for me I worry that I'd be overbuying a machine. I think I've settled on the pfaff expression 2.0. It fits my price range a lot better. But if I'm going to dream I'll take that horizon any day. Just a note, Elna is made by janome as well and they produce almost the same machines but a much smaller price tag.
Heidi
I have the Janome Horizon and must say...it is a fantastic machine for the money. It was a great investment.
Have the Bernina 730 and thinking about the 830. Yet I know many that love their H/V Diamond, and I'd seriously consider it too. My final decision point would be price, local service, features. I've heard positive feedback on both, so I think they all have happy customers. Good luck.
SewCalGal
www.sewcalgal.blogspot.com
Funny, I was just at the sewing machine repairman yesterday, having him look at my Bernina 830 (not the new 830; the old one). She needs some maintenance. His advice is NO to all Viking machines. They are all plastic parts inside, and they will eventually break. All replacement parts for Vikings are expensive. He recommends a Singer 401a as the best machine ever built, but this is a very old model. He said Singers and Kenmores tend to be better but look inside to verify NO plastic parts.
He also said it is a complete falsity when the store tells you "NO maintenance needed." Imagine never oiling your car. They need oiled a minimum every two years. And he is a trustworthy man, I am confident.
Lucky you on a new machine!
Mrs. Hearts
I just got a new Babylock Symphony, and so far, I love it. It was almost $1000 cheaper than the Janome Horizon, and I liked it better after trying it out in the store. Free motions like a dream. The only advantage of the Horizon was a little bit bigger throat space.
The Berninas were way out of my budget, and I didn't try the Husqvarna, but didn't Julie just get one?
I love my machine. I recently got it and am still learning new things. I got a Babylock Symphony. It was a ton of room for quilting.
I have a Bernina 430 and love it. I used to have a Husquavarna and HATED it. I also once had a New Home which is now Janonme and hated that one too. Buy a Bernina.
I bought a JUKI a few months ago. Hands down! The best machine I have ever owned. I have machines that have all the bells and whistles, I just wanted one that would work and work well. I love it so much. Have fun!
I bought the Bernina Patchwork Edition about 6 months ago and I LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I just got the walking foot attachment and ohmygoodgravy I'm in heaven. I wish I had the money to upgrade to a machine that has the stitch regulator feature though.
I have a Bernina 640 and love it. If I am honest with myself though, I have to admit that it is more machine than I need.
I got a Bernina 820 in August and absolutely love it.
The janome Horizon is on my list. The free motion sews so smooth and the stitch formation subperb. It was tough not to drool on the floor model LOL. I didn't care for the button hole maker but what the heck, I'm a quilter. I think the table to go with is must have and don't forget get the carrying case on wheels. The machine weighs 45 lbs. I currently use 3 machines for my sewing. A janome jem for traveling, a Janome 6500 which gets to go with me if I'm gone for ever 3 months. I also have a bernina home commericial machine. It's awesome and has a one horse power motor. And I was a White dealer for years. Husq. and White are not on my list.
A friend of mine has the Bernina 830..... she loves it, especially because she can quilt in the hoop.
Good luck!
I have had a Husq the last like 10 yrs and LOVED it!!! That machine I had took a card that slid in the side, they know longer make the cards and can't get one off of ebay without paying hundreds of $'s. soooo... I splurged and bought a Bernina 630 and I am happy with it. I am so missing my Husq though. I am sure I will love it eventually just like all my 8-9 friends that have a 630 do that have one.
I have the Bernina artista 180... I love it but it's really to much for my needs.
I have the Janome Horizon on my wish, want, hope... list. Maybe Santa will bring it??? :) lol
wow a lot of replies! I have the Janome 6500P and the Janome 330e. I like the stand alone embroidery machine. I think it's a waste of money having 2 machines in one. You can only use one function at a time. I do have the Viking 905 Serger along with a cheaper Singer and probably my favorite my Europro serger that my husband bought me 9 years ago. Still going strong. I also have a 1938 Singer in the bentwood case and a juki serger( industrial model). If I could buy any machine I wanted I probably would go with the Vikings even though you can only use either sewing or embroidery functions. I think they sew beautifully.. Good luck.. It's a tough decission LOL..
I have just gotten a Bernina 440 QE and I am loving it, have a lesson on monday to learn all the things I can do with it - can't wait!
I have an old-ass Bernina 1000 that is heavy as can be and sews like butter-- so smoothly. I call her Nina and treat her like a queen. She gets her annual check-ups, and I clean her after every couple bobbins. I promise, no other machine sews better than my Nina.
That being said, I also have a fancier Bernina (can't remember the number, but it's midrange, not the 8 series by any means). Yeah, it's nice and all, but it isn't Nina. My old one is the one I can't live without.
My mother also has two Berninas, and she, like me, also loves her basic model the most. We both bought ours from a shop that was closing, and they were their old classroom machines. We got them for $300 each seventeen years ago. Good luck finding the machine that makes your heart sing.
Very interesting to read the comments. Most just love their machines!! I have a Bernina 1230 which I have had for 17 years. I have loved that machine so much and used it so much, that I thought I would die if it ever broke and was ready to mortgage the house to fix it, etc. Well, it never did break, but....last year I bought a Janome 6600. My poor beloved Bernina now sits sad and lonely in the case for workshops and I love, love, love the Janome 6600. It was worth every penny and is wonderful. I have been quilting 38 years. I was a Bernina girl, but now I am a Janome woman!! As an aside, I feel that there is no need to pay outlandish prices for feet, like Bernina charges. I bought my sister and my daughter Janome 3080s and they are thrilled too. So good luck. You probably cannot go wrong.
I got my Bernina 820 last Christmas and I love it. I also have a Bernina 440 (as a back up or when I go to a workshop, as the 820 weighs 22 kg). Have fun choosing.
Hands down you should get an HV Diamond! best machine ever. When you touch it for the first time, you just might cry (which I never did ;) )!
Hands down you should get an HV Diamond! best machine ever. When you touch it for the first time, you just might cry (which I never did ;) )!
I have always sewn on Singers, but that was when I was making clothing. I have just about worn out my current machine doing machine quilting this year, so my husband ordered me a Juki TL-98Q for Christmas, along with a quilting frame and cruise control so I can use it for the quilting and use my Singer strictly for piecing. I picked the Juki based on recommendations of several quilt bloggers who do similar quilting and quantity to what I do! I'm anticipating being very happy with this machine!!
I own two Berninas, one is over 30 years old and it is still my favorite, and I have a Brother serger that I love. I still miss my little featherweight...trying to remember why I sold it,,,oh, yeah, I was downsizing...big mistake...never downsize your sewing room.
I just bought a Brother Innov-Ãs 80 and will blog about it on the 8th. So far so good but after reading the comments here it sounds like it would be too basic for you.
I have a Janome and if I get a new machine, which I don't need, it will be another Janome.
I have a Viking,,and absolutely love it,,my girlfriend who owns a quilting retreat have a viking and she has quilted with for many years and loves her..good luck..
Choices are a very good thing. :)
I have the Husqvarna Sapphire...I've had mine for about 3yrs now and it's great. However, I'm truly in love with the Bernina 830. I just quilted a lap size quilt with the Bernina 820 on the quilt frame...HEAVEN!!! i'm sold on the BSR (stitch regulator) and love the amount of space under the arm...plus, there is SO MUCH LIGHT!!! :) If you can afford it or someone wants to give you one, I'd say go for it. I believe they have a very special 1 day deal coming up very shortly on financing! And, I used the 10D foot for sewing on my binding and I have perfect machine binding. :) Good luck in the search and delivery!! :) I hope someone gives you one for free!!!
I have no input, but Kate did some interesting research. I didn't read thru all the comments, so I don't know if you got this already. http://kateconklindesigns.blogspot.com/2010/11/mega-quilter-or-grand-quilter-or-janome.html
I just got a new machine recently after 17 years on a janome schoolmate. I got a janome 6500 and I'm very happy with it. I know that whatever you decide on, you will create beautiful projects. All the best. Merry Christmas.
Darc
xxoo
the Horizon has caused me nothing but headaches and i am desperately trying to get my money back.... i could not recommend this machine to anyone... since writing my thoughts i've heard from about 20 people either returning or replacing their Horizons... there are a lot of bugs in this new machine...
please see here
http://www.flickr.com/photos/49182185@N02/5226942365/
and here
http://www.flickr.com/photos/49182185@N02/5227847389/
and here
groups.yahoo.com/group/horizonusers/
Sewing machines are such a personal thing, but I have to say, I will only own and buy Bernina machines. I've had Singer, Kenmore, and then I got the old Bernina 830 in 1980 and it has been the best machine ever. It can sew on ANYthing, it never breaks down, the tension is always perfect no matter what you sew on, it has regular stitches and then the fancy ones. I even bought a walking foot for it recently. I love to use this machine for free motion quilting. More recently, a few years ago, I purchased a Bernina Activa 230PE (patchwork edition) and it is very lightweight and portable, sews like only Bernina can, has perfect tension, etc. So I work with both machines, back and forth. I also purchased a lower price Bernina for my 10 yr. old granddaughter, who loves my Berninas. I figure, why get her a machine that could be a hassle to work with. She is going to be really surprised and happy! Go with Bernina, you will never be disappointed. BTW, someone mentioned having trouble with skipping stitches (which I've never had). Fabric might make a difference, BUT basically it is really important to always clean your machine after a project and insert a new needle. Makes all the difference! Good luck! Let us know what you get!
Just to comment on the person who said that having a machine that could do both emb & sewing was a waste because you could only do one at a time...the Bernina 830 is capable of bringing your decorative stitches from the sewing side into your embroidery side where you stitch them out as an embroidery design. This allows the stitches to be stitched evenly and without you have to make sure you feed the fabric straight to get the right look.
I own all Berninas but work at a store that sells Berninas, Brothers and Vikings. My biggest advice would be to make sure when purchasing a machine is to find out what kind of service and classes are available from your dealer. The machines now are so advanced that you need to have guide classes available to you and you need a dealer who can service your machine.
Good luck
I have a Husqvarna Quilt Designer (an older model) and I love it. I was sold on it after my in-laws visited a Husqvarna factory in Sweeden. Those Sweedes sure know how to engineer and manufacture. I still haven't used all of the features, but this machine is a dream in how is sews and handles and the support is amazing. Great for quilting or any sewing needs. Good luck!
I own a Husqvarna 870q and a Bernina 440QE. The Bernina is the best machine I have ever sewed on. Everything on the Bernina feels comfortable and natural. The stitch quality is fabulous. I debated big time between the 440 and the 635. In the end decided to go with the 440 because I wanted the BSR and wanted to stay within my budget.
I kind of have a love/hate relationship with the Husqvarna. It was a struggle to learn to sew with the Husq. There were issues at first and it took a couple of repairs to get everything straightened out on the tension for the free motion quilting which took about a year and a half. Lots of people have complained about tension issues. Although there is certainly a following that love the machines and are happy with them.
Good luck with your research. It is interesting to read through the comments. Look forward to hearing what you decide to purchase.
I am a very proud owner of a Bernina 440QE - and will never give it away! Not even to my daughter....
Vera from Germany
Good luck deciding! I have a Janome 6600 and before that, a Janome MC3500. I'm pretty loyal to this brand.
I lived with a '65 top of the range Singer for many many years.
Then I bought a Husqvarna Designer 1 and would adore the Diamond. If I was looking at Hus, it would be Phaff, Bernina
I think you need to think of what is essential...I wanted the embroidery so went the whole way and doubt I will ever be able to replace it.But for me a needle threader, thread cutter are now two things I would go nuts without.
If quilting I would look at whether you want the inbuilt walking foot that some have.
But I am so happy I went with Hus.
And a good dealer who will teach you how to use it properly is also essential.
Can't give you one, I am afraid. But Io have two husqvarna's (using the same bobbin!!!) and I just love them! What I like is a button to change the press of the presser foot. No need for double transport any more! The part that holds the sewing foot is white, which makes finding the hole in the needle much easier!
I have a Bernina 640E and LOVE Bernina! The support from my dealer is fantastic. This is my second Bernina sewing/embroidery machine, I also have a Bernina serger. I have an old Viking machine also, that I keep as a spare!
Wow so many opinions.
My dream would be Bernina,
But I am a Bernina girl. I learned on my mom's 830 Record. Bought an 830 Record off Ebay 11 years ago. The machine is what 40 yrs old or so and still sew like a dream.
Yes someday I would love a machine with a blanket stitch or embroidery but only if it come with such lasting quality.
Craigslist sometimes has great deals on machines. I have seen awesome prices on older Bernina and newer Bernina's.
Love my Bernina! I also have an old workhorse Kenmore that will go to a grandaughter as a starter machine someday but for stitich quality ad power nothing sews like the Berninas.
I'm a confirmed Janome gal. My DH surprised me with the 6500 one Christmas,and it has been a workhorse. He also received some serious Hubby points! The price was right, many feet came with the machine, and as new feet are introduced, they don't break the bank. There's also a yahoo group for 6500/6600/6700 users that is absolutely invaluable---and available 24/7! I've had many a question answered there, and learned so much from all the Janome owners on the board. (This group also has access to great people at Janome, so no question, concern, or suggestion is overlooked.)
I would definitely take your own fabric, and then some 12x12 mini quilt sandwiches to your local shop when you have some time, and won't be rushed. Try out the piecing stitches and feet, then play with the quilting stitches and feet to get a feel for each machine. You might try a couple of price points in each brand. Observe the shop's customer service as well, and decide if you can see a long-term relationship in the future for maintenance and support. If not, learn what you can there, and try another local shop.
You might also consider going over to various friend's houses to "play" and learn the ropes of their machines--a real friend tells it like it is.
Don't be afraid to take your time and research to find the absolutely best fit for you, for your present needs, and possibly with some "room to grow." Have Fun!
Sorry, can't help by giving it to you but BE GOOD & maybe Santa will bring one! My very 1st machine-got it in high school- was a Kenmore from Montgomery Wards. Wore it plumb out! Then bought a New Home (Janome) and wore it plumb out! Now I have a Brother inexpensive machine, a Janome 6600P, Janome GEM and Bernina 750. All great machines!
I have a Brother QC 1000...love it...it's my first quilting machine so I don't have alot to compare to but did test drive a number of them
Hello! I've Janome Horizon, she is wonderful!!!
Pfaff Grand Quilter hands down!
Hello!
I have the Janome Horizon and I love it!
In fact i have 4 Janome sewingmachines and I love them!
The new Horizon is so Great!!!
I LOVE my Bernina 440 QE (Quilter's Edition). I would definitely buy it again. It does 360 degree free motion quilting, has a ton of different stitch selections, and also has a bias binder (additional purchase) that can bind small quilts. The 440 QE is about half the cost of the new Bernina 8 series. I think retail on the 440QE is around $3,500.00.
Happy Shopping!
I have the Janome 6600P and just love it. I love the accufeed built in walking foot! It doesn't have a free arm so I bought a used janome 4800qc to take to classes and also b/c it has the free arm. Good luck with your decision!
I have a Singer and would love to have a new machine! Don't know which on because there is no dealer of ANY kind close to me so I can compare!
I have a Babylock Ellegante and I love it! Sews and embroiders. But, if I could, I would buy the Bernina next. I also have 2 Singer 301a's that I use for straight stitching and it is wonderful! Got to love those old machines!
I recommend either Bernina or Husqvarna for their reliability. I owe a Husqvarna 775 and I love it, my sister has the Husqvarna Designer 1 and she's also very pleases with it. Hope this info helps
I recommend either Bernina or Husqvarna for their reliability. I owe a Husqvarna 775 and I love it, my sister has the Husqvarna Designer 1 and she's also very pleases with it. Hope this info helps
I have a Janome mc 4000 that I bought when I first started sewing and I told my DH I would never need another machine in my lifetime. Well, now I think I would like to upgrade to another Janome. I like that you don't have to oil it (which I would forget to do mostly, anyway)
Also, I have a nice big table that my machine goes into. So the new one would have to fit into that space. I think the newer ones are bigger than this 1993 model. I know I don't need embroidery, that is all I don't want.
I am afraid to go and even look!
Mary Malone
maryandruss@wi.rr.com
I'm in the market to get a second machine. Really, my first purchased one, since I've been using my mother's 1975 Kenmore for years, a workhorse, but I'm trying to sort out all the new features and machine!!! All the input here is great!
LOVE my Elna 7300 so much, researched a great deal. Best machine I found for under $2000. Now they have a new model, the Excellence, that is on my radar. That HV Sapphire is gorgeous too. Berninas... Great reputation, but too rich for my blood. Methinks they have to cover all those sponsorships, since their name turns up absolutely everywhere lol! ; )
In any event, this is an excellent tool for researching various models. Happy shopping!
http://sewing.patternreview.com/SewingMachine/
I'm in the same boat ... i NEED a new machine ... i'm on the starter singer that i bought a year ago to see if i liked sewing ... and i outgrew it in about a month and since i sew easy over 40 -60 hours per week (i know i'm kinda nuts and i don't sleep much) i really need a new one ... i know NOTHING about them though and am just starting the research and its all a little overwhelming! so needless to say i'm going to go through these comments and go from there ... so thanks for helping start my work for me ;) hope you figure out what you need soon and santa gets it for you ;)
Maggie
I've been Husq-ing (Designer I) for 6 years now since I wore out 3 Singers. I've tried Bernina, Babylock, and Husq (top of the lines) at Quilt Festival and I know I'll forever be Husq-ly.
I'm a husky girl! I will never sew on anything else!
If I could get a new one I'd go big ... get a diamond!
I love my Janome 6500,, love the big throat, threader, cutter, seperate bobbin threader (bobbin is great, not the skinny ones, it holds more thread) and much more...also have a Kenmore which love to bring to classes..have all the feet possible with it and it also fits my Janome
Interesting reading all these comments. It is such a personal thing. I have an old Pfaff which I love. I upgraded to a Bernina 440QE which I have never been 100% happy with - niggly issues, nothing really major. At the time it was a huge expense (and a gift) so I am stuck with it :(
I have two Berninas. One is an old 1001, the other is an Activa 125. I really like them. My friend however prefers her Pfaff over the Bernina she tried while her Pfaff was being serviced.
Sewing machines, I have a few... 9 to be exact, but these are ones I have had for years and ones I inherited from my Mom.. From Old Singers in wooden cases, touch and sews, to Singer Futura.. I have three that are double duty as sewing and embroidery machines, which are the ones I use the most.. of those three, a singer futura, Brother 8500 and a Janome MC 5700, I tend to rely on the Janome the most. I like the way it sews, a real work horse. As for Embroidery, the Janome is the most convient as you can sew, change setting and embroidery without changing the base..but I like the ease of Brother in the hooping... So for you I would say, take some machines out for a test drive and see which one suits your needs, then go for the best one you can afford...or should I say your Santa can afford.. Good Luck, hope you get the machine of your dreams..
I love my Husqvarna Diamond!
I love my Bernina 640!!
I just got the new Laura Ashley Brother....love it. I have a Juki for my window treatments and heavy duty items, Viking Rose for embroidery. Was going to get the new Janome but I compared the Janome with the Viking Sapphire and the LA brother and it was a better deal for the brother. Check it out. Good luck.
I have a Janome 6600 and love it. Before you buy the Horizon, there is a Yahoo group for it and I'd strongly suggest reading through the postings. Perhaps there is even a Yahoo group for the others. Good luck.
You know where I stand on this!
I LOVE LOVE my Sapphire.
Note: you talked me into getting it!
Monica: This Thanksgiving kicks last Thanksgiving's *ss!!!
I currently have a Husqvarna Sapphire 875q and like it; don't love it. It sews beautifully but I cannot quilt on it a smoothly as on my dead Bernina 1090. For one thing, Husqvarna doesn't make a big open-toe foot like Bernina's.
My Berrnina, which I loved, developed severe tension problems after 10 years of use (14 years of ownership). The head office in Canada "fixed" it for $230, and after 10 hours of sewing the problem was back.
When I replaced my Bernina I decided on the Husqvarna Sapphire over a Bernina for 2 reasons: (1) the Bernina model I wanted was $4000 (CDN) and my Sapphire 875q was $2000 and (2) my lack of confidence in Berninas holding up.
If I had more money I might not have worried about the durability of the Bernina, figuring I'd replace it when the time came. But alas, I am not that flush.
I test drove a Pfaff and didn't like the quality of the straight stitching, and the Janome didn't have a a free arm for hemming pants or sewing sleeves. (Didn't consider a Singer, Brother, Juki, Babylock.)
I have two Elna, love 'em!
1) Elna 7200 made for Quilter's(there is a newer version now): longer throat, auto scissors, more varied stitches than I'll ever need, small table, knee lift, cover, I can fill a bobbin without removing the top thread, buttonhole, etc.
2) Elna 6001 Decorator's Touch: just a excellent basic machine with 60 stitches of Heirloom, Quilting, various buttonholes and
decorative styles.
~I know quite a few people with Babylock's & they love those. They seem similiar to Elna.
I agree you need to testdrive, make notes to yourself, get brochures, GO home & think about it. I worked @ 2 stores that sold various makes of machines...the salespeople 'usually' tried their best to sell the ones with the highest return for themselves. Best to be true to yourself & don't be talked into the heat of the sale.
Also, most manufacturers do not stand behind a machine sold over the internet, thus the warranty isn't valid. Best to go through a local store who can be there for you.
Blessings to you & yours, Jackie NC
I have a Viking Husq. Sapphire 870 which is specifically marketed to quilters. Let me tell you what I LOVE about it. I love the automatic presser-foot lowering and raising. Huge positive impact in my sewing effort!
I love my thread cutter button. I love the large throat size so that I can fit tons of excess quilt bulk while free motion quilting.
I love this machine but might recommend the newer 875 since I've heard it's even better. Please feel free to email me with ANY questions about it.
Janome ~ mine is the 10,000. As important as the machine though is a GREAT dealer who you can work well with ;)
I also have the Bernina 440 QE. I really like it, but I do feel like the walking foot is a tad bit clunky. Other than that, no complaints.
LOL, after reading about half those comments, now I want (don't really *neeeeeeed*) a spiffy new quilting machine. But noone is going to give me one, least of all me cos first we have to finish renovating the kitchen! (For 3,500 aussie dollars we can do a fair bit of renovating....)
I just bought a Bernina Activa 230 when the new models came out, and I've gotta say that I'm not disappointed. I LOVE my machine. But I will say that I'm a newbie to sewing/quilting, and the only other machines I've used are quite old. My mom had a White that she got in 1965, and then a portable one that is at least as old as me. :)
oooo.... I love this question! I JUST (like 3 months ago) bought a Bernina 440 - it was a sort of towards the "more" expensive end of the spectrum - but TOTALLY worth it! I LOVE IT! It has totally revolutionised my sewing. I can't speak highly enough about it. I got some really good opinions from people when I was hunting (including a couple of "insider" type emails) - which I could forward to you if you're interested.
i've got a simple janome 6019 for over 15 years and it's like a "tractor"; robust, and has never let me down!!but i wanted a sewing machine with more features. i had a "test drive" on the bernina440 and the pfaff creative 2.0.
my comparison:
bernina is like a BMW ; modern,very good, famous...in!!but loud and you "feel the imperfections on the road"
pfaff is like a mercedes bens;
also modern,and good "equipped",
not so famous, and not at all "in"...but smooth, gentle...is like driving over feather...
i bought the pfaff and I am very happy with my choice!!
...and talking about "feather"...i also have a little singer featherweight 221 year:1957, and that's my baby!! none of the others has such a perfect straight stitch!!!
it is very important to konw what you actually want from your machine, and i would try them before you decide.
i wish you luck and success on your purchase!!
and have a wonderfull christmas season!!
meg
I have a very old Singer that I love. I have a Bernina which is nice. But then I got a Pfaff. I now have two Pfaffs and there is no going back for me. If anyone asks what I recommend, I always say Pfaff!
I have a Bernina 1260 that is going on 20 years old and still runs phenomenally. I use it for my everyday sewing. I also recently acquired a used (though almost all of it still sealed in the box)Viking Designer I that I have not yet played with, mainly because I haven't been able to get a compatible computer with the software I have *but thats another story)
I've sewn on my mom's D1 and it is fantastic. Part of what will influence your decision is the support you can get from the dealers in your area. We have a great Bernina dealer here, the others not so much.
I'm a Bernina girl! I have an 820 with the Bernina quilt frame and a 440 QE. I love them both! I'm taking some classes at my LQS right now on the 820. There is so much to learn! I also have an older Janome.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE my Janome 6600. It is perfect! ♥♥♥
I just sold my Husqvarna Viking Scandinavia 400 because I was ready for an upgrade and I hardly ever used the embroidery module on it. My local Viking dealer didn't want to work out payments with me for a Sapphire 835 so, I did research every day for a week and finally decided to order the Brother PC 420-PRW. It has 294 stitches, automatic thread cutter, and a knee lift! It has hundreds of 5 star reviews every where I've looked and ranks #1 on Bestcovery: http://www.bestcovery.com/best-sewing-machine-overall
I also demo-ed some Janomes at a local dealer and really liked them but I just had to have the automatic thread cutter and that dealer didn't carry the 6300, 6500, or 6600... I still went out and bought myself a Janome 11542 from Overstock.com for only $60! Let me tell you this is my new favorite little machine for travel and taking to classes. Real simple and basic but wow what a workhorse! It sewed through 8 layers of cotton fabric like nothing! Weighs only 11 lbs but doesn't sound junky or jingly like some cheapy low-end machines. It all iworked out for me because I was able to get my new machine with the bells & whistles AND a new backup machine for classes for less than 1/2 what it would have cost me to get the Sapphire 835 I was looking at. Good luck!
I'm a Bernina 440 owner since 2 month. Soooo happy and sooo in love. Have discovered a lot of goodies I wasn't even aware I was missing :-). I got a 6 hour "intro workshop" included in the price. Very very very useful! Good luck!
(did some notes about the workshop here: http://tankaromtyg.mittspejs.se/blogg/arkiv/201010.html. It's in Swedish... but you can see my improvement of the applique when scrolling down a bit... Ha ha!!)
I have a 20+ year old Janome that is a work horse, but I covet a Bernina QE440! I will get one because I need one, not want, need!
I have the Husqvarna Sapphire. I love it!
I've had the Viking QE for several years and thought that I NEEDED a new one. Looked at the Janome 6500 and then the 6600 but couldn't justify the cost. Finally took the plunge with the Janome Horizon and didn't trade in my Viking because I bought at a show at a super price. Have to say that I love the free motion quilting BUT hate the even feed foot. It's a closed foot and you can't see what you're doing or going so making corners is tough and stitch in the ditch impossible. I'm going to have to look at the separate open toe foot they have for sale to use with this feature. Pretty much I'm disappointed for overall use and rue the purchase.
I upgraded to a Janome 6600P earlier this year... then the Horizon came out. Wish I'd waited for the newer model, but it is a great machine. I'd recommend the Horizon. I'm considering someday adding a smaller Janome to take to classes (when I can afford it). I have a Singer I use now for classes.
I have the new Janome and even after 30 years of sewing on a Pfaff, I must say, I love my new machine.
I take my old Pfaff with me to classes and I am still charmed by it!
Hi Rachel, My biased opinion is go for the Husqvarna, no contest! I adore my Viking. It consistently sews a perfect stitch, and I love the wide throat. I have sewed on Berninas at friends' houses and retreats, and while they are good machines they don't hold a candle to a Viking.
well as of yesterday and thanks to the best hubby ever I am the proud owner of a Janome Horizon (Memory Craft 7700 QCP)
oh my!
this baby has it all!
does it all!
a huge deep 11" throat!
double feed system (accu feed)
automatic adjustment!
and the most beautiful quilting deck!
I'm in love!
I'm also terrified of it but that's just because compared to my old machine it's like getting the whole banana split, cherry and all, when before you only had the vanilla ice cream :)
Rachel, I bought the Janome Horizon and have been sewing on it for 1 month. It is unbelievable. I traded my 6600 P for it and I am so thrilled with it. All the kinks are worked out and it sews like a cadillac of sewing machines.
Rachel, I was sewing on a 35-year-old Viking. But for Christmas, my parents surprised me with a Bernina B 350 PE. I absolutely LOVE IT! I have named her Regina Bernina, and I sew nearly every night. With the old Viking, it was a chore, no longer a hobby. Now it's a hobby again! Yay!
I am trading my Janome Horizon in on a Bernina 820. And yes...it was a little scary to commit to buying at that price threashold. After sewing on the Horizon for 5 months - I now have a better idea of what my sewing needs really are. The Bernina 820 has more convenient engineering. The presser feet design system is much better. The automatic foot hover for pivoting on applique will make life soooo much easier. It will also handle thread delivery from wide modern spools so much better. Then eventually I'll get the quilting frame. I just came to the conclusion, if your going to use it everyday for hours at a time, why 'settle' with multiple little aggravating annoyances that get in the way?? The Bernina has more convenient mechanical engineering and function.
I am also in the market for a new machine. Almost all of the major dealers are represented in my town. It is quite overwhelming. One thing to consider is service after your purchase. In my asking around I have found out that a few of the shops that sell highly rated machines have less than stellar service if something should go wrong. So ask around, that may help your decision-making. For me I am dreaming of the Bernina 830 but will probably "settle" for the 550 QE (haha). Good luck!
I know this is a year later, but what did u go for? Just loking at the same two machines now!
I would also LOVE to know what you ended up getting. I'm looking at either a second-hand Bernina 440 or a Janome 7700 :)
I'm currently using a $130 Brother, Costco special. I got it 3 years ago when I was just learning to sew. Since then I've taken up quilting and I'm on the machine all the time. I've made 6.5 lap/baby blankets (one in progress), and countless other items from potholders to table runners. I'm ready to jump up to a machine with more features and stitches now that I've decided quilting/applique is where it's at. The throat on my machine is tiny!! I'm coveting the Sapphire 875 or Expression 4.0 and saving my money. I'm hoping for Christmas I'll get my new machine. :)
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