Replies

1. 
   silkscreen | Feb 13, 2008 07:48am | #1

   Prior to becoming a proud owner of an Elna , I looked at Janome and almost purchased one but continued to look and study and look again at more even machines. I also looked at the Baby Lock at the same awesome dealer that also represented Elna.  He had only good things to say about the Baby Lock and Janome - all awesom machines  The dealer made me sit down in front of the many machines he had and take a test drive at my own speed and he was patient and answered every question I had.   Did you sit down in front of all of the machines on your list of and sew on each one? Which one has the most features that you want.  I love my Elna, but Janome is an excellent machine, and I have heard great things about BabyLock. I think the determing factor would be which one feels the best between your hands and your fabric, and would give you the most enjoyment and ease when using.  Enjoy your choice and post something about your new machine. I ended up receiving my Elna as a surprise gift from a very dear family who knew I was looking so my machine means more to me than you can imagine, but I would not hesitate purchasing a Janome from a great dealer who will give you continued "question & answer" support.

2. 
   zuwena | Feb 14, 2008 12:15am | #2

   I thought both companies made quality machines about two years ago when I last looked.  One thing, important for me, was the automatic needle threader, because of my eyesight--Babylock had the best and most consistent.  So, my advice is find the features that are most important to you and compare how they work on both machines and then go for it.  Z

1. 
   yadayah | Feb 14, 2008 02:14am | #3

   Thank you for your input!!! I made quite a few phone calls, and did alot of searching and found out that the Baby Lock Choice series (my favorite) is made by Brother, and Brother has an Identical machine (NX Series)for much less!!! In fact.....I can get the Brother NX450 for $499.00 which is the same as the Baby Lock Decorators Choice (799.00)........That is $100.00 less than my favorite Baby Lock.....and it is the step up machine!!!! That's 294 stitches compared to 80!!! I am so excited!!! Now I just have to figure out, or should I say "make sure" that this Brother is "as good as" the Baby Lock. Does anyone know?
   Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!

1. 
   MaryinColorado | Feb 14, 2008 07:48am | #4

   My mother in law just bought a Brother NX and she loves it.  It is quiet, solid, and stitches look perfect.  She is thrilled with her purchase. 

   I am a Husq/Viking gal myself, but when looking for MIL's new machine, we checked out most of the machines on the market.  The Brother was the "perfect fit" for her needs, the really cool thing is, she got it at the same dealer that I use so I know they will take good care of her!    Mary

2. 
   Betakin | Feb 14, 2008 08:54am | #5

   I love my Brother Innovis Quilt club model that is basically the same machine with the same amount of stitches but has been discontinued.  I have several machines and love them all for different reasons. I like that the Brother has a wider bed and also come with the extension table, knee lift, has many feet plus came with the quilter's feet pkg. I love the instant threader that is so different from other needle threaders and the auto thread cutter that you can use with just a touch of a button or program. The feed on the machine is also wonderful on all fabrics. $499 is a great price and exactly what I paid for mine new through an internet dealer. I have seen these machines priced over $1000.

   I also own a Janome made computerized Kenmore, a computerized Viking and a mechanical Pfaff. Each is different and I love them all and could recommend them all  to anyone looking to purchase a new machine. It is wise to sit and sew on a machine before purchasing it to see which one is best for you so you will love it more later on. It seems you found the one that you love and at a wonderful price.

3. 
   dayenu | Feb 15, 2008 02:02am | #6

   I have owned brother machines for over 20 years and never had to reapir one. they are very very excellent and I adore that all the accessories are interchangeable except the some of the newer ones take thicker bobbins. (Currently I own two babylocks  and a brother)

   go for it !!!

1. 
   yadayah | Feb 15, 2008 03:15am | #7

   You guys are GREAT!!!!! Thank you so much for your support and information!!!! It was ordered today and I should get it next Friday!!!!
   I am SOOOOOO EXCITED!!!!!! I hope you all have a BLESSED weekend!!
   yadayah