Replies

1. 
   fabricholic | Mar 05, 2007 11:01pm | #1

   Hi,Will the feed dogs not drop on your old machine? Why won't it let you do free motion?Marcy

2. 
   JanF | Mar 05, 2007 11:32pm | #2

   Check it doesn't have a plate to insert and cover the feed - as if for darning.
   if u have a good machine already - why not consider an industrial straight and zig/zag only machine?
   http://www.JSM-DistributorDirect.com
   model 20u33
   i'm thinking of this when I retire - but they may not supply USA?
   Just a suggestion!
   Jan

3. 
   GranJanice | Mar 06, 2007 12:37am | #3

   Hi - well if I had some thousands to spend freely, I would purchase the Bernina with the BSR (Bernina Stitch Regulator) on it if my only interest was FREE MOTION.  (I do a lot of machine embrodiery and all other kinds of sewing so I am happy with my H. Viking.)

   Try to go to a shop and give it a whirl.  I have never tried sewing with it because I fell in love with the Husqvarna Viking Designer I and put my money into that one.  The store showed me the Bernina too, but I was in love with the Husqvarna Viking.  Since my purchase, the Bernina came out with the BSR.  Even if they had it when I was purchasing my machine, I probably would have still gotten the Husqvarna Viking.  That's just because that is the one I had my heart set on.  I am not sorry about my choice, but I know sewers who have a BERNINA and absolutely love them.  And, they have a patent that no other machine has - the BSR.  I have seen work done with it and it looks wonderful.  The Husqvarna Viking has come out with a FABRIC MOVER for free motion.  But, I tried it twice and don't want to invest about $900 for it.  Also, like anything, you have to practice, practice, practice.  Since I took a free motion class at my quilt store a few years ago, I learned a lot.  I can do some stippling and meandering etc.  I can do more if I practice.  I found it easier - FOR ME - to continue practicing what I have learned in free motion without the FABRIC MOVER because that is how I first learned.  To use the FABRIC MOVER, you have to learn a whole new way.  So, check out the Bernina with the BSR.  I have done a few fabhopshops on line in hopes of winning a Bernina but so far no luck.  Enjoy!

4. 
   Betakin | Mar 09, 2007 09:21am | #4

   I suggest to test drive a Pfaff Grand Quilter. It is the best machine I have ever done free motion on. It is supposed to be the same as the Viking Mega Quilter with a different appearance but I did not like the Viking MQ when I tried it. I really think the demo model was out of adjustment. There is a Pfaff Hobby Grand Quilter and other quilting machine forum that you may wish to check out in regards to the opinions of owners of the quilting machines and also there are the on line reviews of owners at PatternReview.com and also at QuiltersReview. Good luck, I hope you find a machine you love.