Hello,
I am in the market for a new sewing machine. I have a Viking purchased in 1975 model 6440. It has served me very well. I am over whelmed with how many sewing machines there are today to choose from. Does any one know of a web site that compares the various machines models. I wonder if there was a web site like the PC manufacture Dell or IBM has where you can put in your requirements and it lets you compare prices. I have made a list of requirements for when I go shopping.
I primarily use my sewing machine for making clothing and some quilting.
Thanks
Kathy
Replies
Yeah, there is a place just like that, but darn if I can find it. Try http://allbrands.com/ just to get your feet wet with the different brands and features. There are some fantastic new features out there. Vikings lift the presser foot when you stop sewing, and Bernina has a stitch regulator where you move the fabric and the needle goes up and down, according to how fast you move the fabric. Very cool.
I'm a quilter, so what is important to me in a machine will be different than that of a clothing sewer like yourself.
When all is said and done, you will still have to go sew on them to know which machine is right for you. Once you take your fabric and sit down at the machine, you will know right away if you hate it. It's a process of elimination. I just bought a new machine last week and I went through the whole process myself.
If I find that website I'll let you know.
Rian- Thanks for your post. Just curious what brand and model did you purchase? Kathy
I bought a Janome 6500. As I said, I am a quilter, and a good free-motion quilting (FMQ) stitch and a large "throat" area are THE two important features to me. I did my research and found that this is a very popular machine with quilters. It is popular for a reason, and I am very pleased with my purchase.
I tried the Viking ($2,499), didn't like it. Too automated for me, and it didn't FMQ very well. I loved the Bernina with the stitch regulator, but it was too expensive at $2999, and the throat size is the same as my "old" Bernina. You can't stuff a quilt through there. I know, I own one. The Janome retails for $1,699, but it can be had for as little as $1,000 if you live in a metropolitan area where there is competition--I don't :(. For me, this machine was a good value. It has a beautiful stitch, and lots of room to maneuver quilts.
I never got to the Pfaffs because when I tested the Janome, I knew it was the one.
PS I looked but couldn't find that website.
Let me know what machine you buy.
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