New Bernina

[Betty J.]

Looking around for a new sewing machine, probably TOL or close. I'm primarily a quilter (piecing mostly) but would also like to expand my sewing capabilities into garments, FMQ on smaller projects and embroidery. I'm not sure if I want a combo machine or two separate machines. I'm looking for input. I've never owned a Bernina, I now own a Janome that's about 7 years old, mid to lower range, and a 20 year old Viking. I've always heard great things about Berninas, but lately, I'm seeing reviews where people are unhappy with the quality and they seem to spend a lot of time in the shop. My questions are these - if you had to do it over again, would you still buy a Bernina? Have you used other machines in the past 5 years and how does the Bernina compare to them, and what are those machines? Any input will be appreciated!

[Wendy P.]

Doing your homework before making the purchase is wise. I have sewn for decades. Started with a Singer, then a mid-line Viking, and now a Bernina with special duty Singers.
The Bernina 820 I purchased 5 years ago has been a real learning experience. The secrets to success have been willingness to invest time and finding the right shop for service and lessons. Thanks to SewDreamy and Renata on the forum - I found a shop that provides excellent support. Having them at the start would have changed my experience dramatically.
Would I buy the Bernina again? I love the features and don't regret having it. However, doing it today I would weigh alternatives more fully than I did then. More of the makers offer the deeper throat and BSR now so shopping around is easier. I suggest you spend at least a few hours actually using the machine before you buy. (FYI - I was able to use one of the newer 8 series Berninas at a class last year and loved it. The problems I had with my 820 were not apparent in the newer 8 series.)
If money and space are no object - I suggest machines for each task. My antique Singer 301 is a dream for piecing. The wider feeddogs on the large machines with a lot of stitches are not the best for piecing. Another bonus is I can service the 301 myself.
Service is really important. I suggest asking around about the timeliness, quality and cost of service. Before switching to the wonderful new service center, it was routine that I would make an appointment a month out, drop the machine off, and wait a month to pick it up. Two months with a non-working machine is a nuisance. (Note that my most common breakage problem has an easy fix that the new service tech demonstrated for me. So far, smooth sailing.) Having the patience to learn how to use the TOL machines is important. Having great support from the dealer is essential!
Happy shopping!

[Anne B.]

I have a Singer 301 & a 401, both amazing machines...I'm able to fix them myself, they are rock solid, and are absolute work horses! I also have a super cool TOL Bernina 830, which has a huge learning curve & can be very picky, but super cool! I bought all 3 of my machines used. I have been sewing 35 plus years, I totally agree with GigiWendy on her opinion of these machines. If piecing is your main deal, even machine applique, go with that precious Singer 401, you will not be disappointed! You can pick up one these sweet machines for well under $200 on e-bay, they really haven't been discovered yet, as well as the 301, also known as the 'feather's weight Big Sister', (& in my opinion a much better machine that is a lot cheaper). The one huge draw back to these older Singers are they don't have free arms which is something that you really need in garment construction. I would really look at older machines if your eventually goal is to do piecing and garments. The bells and whistle on newer machines are great, but they can also be a real hassle
I mostly use my Bernina 830 for embroidery, I do some FMQ on it using the BSR, which is pretty cool. The features are amazing, but with so many amazing features, there is a lot that can go wrong. You tube has been a great learning source for me, the nearest Bernina shop is a little over a 100 miles away, so I have to take my lessons where I can. Getting my Bernina serviced is a very expensive and time consuming thing. Would I buy my Bernina 830 again, yes, because I got it ridiculously cheap, I have had an embroidery machine since 2004, & I do love to do embroidery. I am truly hoping that this Bernina will last me a long time, but we shall see.

[Rob H.]

Choosing a machine is very personal. You should go and try each on your list several times. See on them get a feel for them.
.i have three machines. All will work for what you describe. I will explain my choices.

I have a HV Topaz 30. This is a main embroidery machine. Has large hoops 360x200mm and easy to use Excellent stitch quality.

Next a Bernina Artista 165e. This is my travel abd class machine. I spend time at several locations and this machine is easy to load in the car. it has excellent stitch quality and selection as will as excellent embroidery and fits in a nice roller bag for easy transport.

My main sewing machine is a Pfaff Performance 5. I love it for FMQ. The Maxi stitches are wonderful. The piecing memory is a breeze.

I looked at a Bernina 770QE but choose the Pfaff for me did not need the BSR as it does not work well for me. And the Pfaff had more stitches. But the 770 was a strong contender but for me the Pfaff was the better machine.

Best of luck in your search.

[Heather H.]

Hi, I work for a Bernina shop so I am declaring my interest up front.
I have to also say that I own 8 Berninas ( I know, it is crazy.......but can't part with my oldies). I have bought my high end models prior to being employed, so was only influenced by my own judgement at that time.
I have tried other machines and I know Berninas are expensive to buy but in my opinion they are worth every cent. You are buying the top of the tree. There were some issues with the original 8 series, but the problems were sorted out a long time ago. The 880 is a great option and even more popular is the 790.
The high end Berninas are not machines that you can just 'muddle through' on your own. You must take your free shop lessons, read your manual and watch every available video on the internet to get a full understanding of how incredible these machines are. You have to be scrupulous with the routine of cleaning (including the cutting blades), changing the needle and oiling the hook. I love my machines to death and all of these tasks are a pleasure for me. They are very simple things to do and should be done with all brands for trouble free sewing anyway.
My advice would be to research who makes other brands now because you may get a surprise. Bernina is the only brand that is owned and run by the original family and owners. This is very important to me for the integrity of quality.
Berninas are still all metal inside and of a very high quality. You do get what you pay for. There is also a great warranty.
Find a really good dealer and ask many questions.
I can only speak for W Australia when I say that the service to customers is second to none. We love to sew, we love Berninas and we want you to get the very best out of your machine. Find a dealer who has the same mantra and you will be well looked after and supported well.
My opinion given is my personal one, I have never had a bad experience with any of my Bernina machines. I am now very proud to be demonstrating this brand.
Have good fun finding the right machine for you.
Heather

[Rob H.]

I disagree somewhat. Bernina great customer service depends on your dealer. I have friends who like you always swore by Bernina but has had many too many issues with their newer models especially the models made in the Asia facilities.

The ones that still have their machines are individuals with excellent dealer support and service. Any have left Bernina because of bad service.

But the same could be said of all machines. I choose my Pfaff because my favorite dealer that has always been supportive of me perfers Husqvarna Viking andere Pfaff. They also sell Bernina but it is not their main lines.

So again when looking for a top machine visit your dealer and find a machine that works best for you. And find a dealer you enjoy working with and will support you in the future. Because believe me i am very technical and do not require a great deal of support. But I always need something little and advice.

So find the best dealer and machine that works for you.

[Rob H.]

Thank you all - I decided to buy a Babylock Crescendo and I absolute love it!

[Rob H.]

Congratulations Excellent choice. My friends in America love their Babylocks. I live in Europe, Babylock is not readily available.

Many happy hours of sewing.