New TOL Machine

[Janet S.]

Looking for a new TOL machine. I'm really impressed with the Babylock Crescendo, because as a quilter, that laser beam would be oh, so helpful! However, I've read some reviews that say it cuts the thread too short. I'm not about to give up my automatic thread cutter, so that's a little detail that's very important to me. I've also read that the FMQ quality is poor. Can anyone shed some light on these issues? Also looking at the Janome 9400. Love the lighting on that machine. I don't think I want a combination sewing/embroidery machine - the large throat-area machines with this feature are soooo expensive, and then you can only do flat embroidery, which limits doing bags, onesies, etc. And as I live in Mississippi, where we monogram EVERYTHING, this matters! Lol! But seriously, it is important, as I hope to eventually do embroidery on baby items. Any help you could give me regarding any of this would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!

[Kathryn S.]

Not sure I can be of specific help for your question, I have a Janome 9400 and really like it. I do my FMQ on a Handiquilter sweet 16 sitdown machine, so don't have much experience on the janome of FMQ. I just wanted to mention, on the Janome Yahoo mailing list, that some people buy a sewing machine and then a separate embroidery only machine. I don't do machine embroider and can't speak to that, but it does open another option of two separate machines. Good luck in your search. Kathy

[Kathryn S.]

I think you posted a similar question on the Baby Lock Crescendo thread. Here is the post that I left in reply:

A definite yes! I still love the machine and have had no problems with it. I sew practically every day, so the machine gets tons of use. I've used all kinds of thread and the thread cutter is perfectly fine. It's one of the features I like best about the machine. It seems like such a little thing, but over the course of many hours of sewing, it saves time and hassle. It also eliminates all the "thread nests" that can occur. As for the quality of the quilting stitches, I've found that it has much more to do with finding the right combination of needle and thread for the fabric and batting that you are using. I know when we see demonstrations at shows or on computer/tv screens, it always looks so perfect, but it really does take some experimenting/trial and error. I have the machine tuned up every year, so that insures good quality stitches and operation, as well.

I know how hard it is to make a decision about buying a machine. It's a BIG expense for most of us, so it does pay to talk to people, and most of all work with a dealer that is really interested in your needs.

You might take a look at the other postings that I made in that thread. They may help you to make a decision. Good luck.

[Kathryn S.]

Thanks! I am thinking of separate machines, as well. Just makes more sense to me, as I would want to sew while the embroidery unit is doing it's thing, and why would I want to sew on my old machine when I have the new one? And, I don't do any FMQ at this point, and wouldn't do larger projects, but it might be nice to do things like placemats and smaller items.

[Rob H.]

Maybe a little late

I searched for a new machine last year.

I looked a Babylock/Brother. Their machines are the same in the higher end models. Different areas have different pricing. Where I live Brother is less have friends live where Babylock is cheaper.

Personally Janome and Brother did not do it for me did not like the way they function This is personal

I wanted a Bernina. But that was out of my budget.

I narrowed to Pfaff and Husqvarna. For me I really like the Heirloom and decorative stitches. I was going with HV Sapphire 965 until my dealer offered me half off on the last Pfaff Performace 5.

I love this machine in 5 months has not missed a beat with almost daily usage.

Love the Patchwork memory function for piecing. Like the Maxi and Heirloom stitches for wholecloth and border work. I have only done minimal FMQ. But like the outcome.

This was the machine for me and my project direction.

Buying a TOL machine is expensive and very personal. Take your time, it took mr 7 months. Carry fabric with you. Stop and test sew performing similar tasks you plan to perform. Drive the dealer/s insane with questions.

Look forward to hearing your decision and why?

[Rob H.]

Thank you, everyone, for your input. I did buy a Babylock Crescendo in December, and so far, have loved it! I have an incredible dealer, which is a plus, but so far, I haven't even had to consult them on anything. Sews like dream. I'm not a FMQer, so the concerns that others have voiced about that didn't bother me. I love the large throat where I can quilt smaller things like baby quilts, bags, etc. Of course there are features I wish it had - an easier way to change to the walking foot, as well as the stitch plates. But that wasn't a deal breaker for me, or the 7mm stitch width. I'm planning on buying a Babylock Spirit later this year and looking forward to learning something new! Happy sewing, everyone!

[Rob H.]

Jlmckinion

Congratulations on your new machine. I have good friends with BabyLocks. They love their machines.

Hope to hear about your adventures, and journey with your new machine.