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Conversational Threads

Pfaff Model Numbers

mybostonterriers | Posted in Equipment and Supplies on

Hi,

  Does anyone know the difference between Pfaff 7570 and Pfaff 7550 , which is a better machine? I’m slowly selling all Viking products I own, and switching to Pfaff. I currently have a Pfaff Creative. I just want a second machine to compliment the Pfaff Creative. I don’t know how to tell how the model  numbers run. Does any-one know which Pfaff to stay away from?

                                                                               Thank-You

Replies

  1. User avater
    SandraC | | #1

    The 7570 and 7550 are the same except the 7570 does embroidery.  I still have my 7570 and it sews beautifully.

    Sandra

    1. mybostonterriers | | #2

      Thank-You Sandra!

         So lower the model numbers the newer the machine? Approx how old is your machine, are you happy with your machine? Do you know which Phaff's you should stay away from? What are your favorite things about your machine, is it a computer machine? Thank-You for your time!

                                               Carla

      1. lvs2sew | | #3

        Hi,

        The pfaff series that pre-dates the 7550 and 7570 is the 1471, 1472, 1473 and 1475.  I have the 1475 which I bought in June of 1991.  It was the top of the line machine then and it has been a real work-horse!  The 1475 had the "Creative Designer" which was an old fashioned and very slow way to make embroideries (each stitch was individually programmed and entered into a memory blank; it took forever!)  This model also had large single designs - 25 mm or something along that line. 

        The 1472 and 1473 are very similiar and have alot of what the 1475 has including the built-in walking foot.  I have heard that these were the best machines that Pfaff built - I can tell you from my experience that this machine has been absolutely wonderful; only a few trips to the dealer to have a check up and cleaning and I sew alot. 

        As far as machines to stay away from - guess it would be the low end machines that are made for Pfaff by Janome or somewhere in Taiwan.

        Lisa

      2. User avater
        SandraC | | #4

        No, lower number is not necessarily newer.  If I remember correctly both of these came out about the same time, they just offered a non-embroidery model for those not interested in embroidery.

        I honestly can't remember when I bought this machine but I do know it was new at that time, I traded up from a non-embroidery Pfaff (1471 I think was the model number)

        I do not have any experience with other than the top (1471? was at the time the TOL).  The IDT was and remains an excellent feed system.  In case you are not familial with IDT it makes the machine feed as though an even feed foot is attached.  The needle bar has a "hook" that gets attached to the back of various feet to engage the even feed.  It can also be unhooked to, for example, allow the feed teeth to ease a seam.

        Sandra

         

         

        1. mybostonterriers | | #9

           I just want to thank every-one who answered all my questions about Pfaff machines. I had always had Viking machines and decided to switch over to Pfaff, so I have little knowledge about models. I just want a smaller computer, older model embroidery/sewing machine, mainly for my granddaughter to her use the less expensive Pfaff instead of my Pfaff Creative Vision machine.

          1. Tottie | | #18

            Did I understand you to say that you have a Pfaff Creative Vision Sewing Machine?  How do you like it and were you able to have classes with it.

            I bought one in Dec. 1007, and my dealer kept putting off classes, thus I wasn't able to get to learn the machine/embroidery.   I've had trouble with the needle threader, the machine keeps running when I take my foot off the foot pedal; and I was getting a pop=up saying "Motor overload".  Right now it at the factory and I'm waiting for it to come back.  My dealer is no longer a dealer, or at least her name is off the "Dealer List"  I guess when I get it back, I will have to try to find a dealer who will teach me something about the embroidery part.

             

            Edited 9/22/2008 3:34 pm ET by Tottie

          2. mybostonterriers | | #19

            Very sorry to hear about your troubles with your CV! I did have a problem with the needle threader but my dealer fixed it right away. My biggest problem was while I was taking classes my mother-in-law passed away and my husband fractured his knee and I couldn't finish my classes then my dealer retired after 40 years. His wife did the teaching and he did the machine repair. The good news is he is going to still repair machines. So I missed the classes on embroidery. I haven't even tried the embroidery. I always had Vikings in the past. They are different, my CV stitches are much nicer than the Viking machines. My CV just hums along, very quiet compared to the Vikings I had in the past, better lighting. Very solid machine! My only problem is I'm not sure is why the hoops didn't come with templates like the 3 Viking embroidery machines I had in the past. Well I hope you get your machine back soon! Please let me know how things are going! I haven't talked to any-one with a CV.

          3. Tottie | | #20

            Thanks for your reply and knowing that someone else had problems exactly like mine is comforting to know because my dealer told me I was rough with the machine - I also had two feet broken the 2nd week I had the machine.  I really like the way it sews and handles anything I tried to do very well, but this motor overload just blows my mind.  I hope to be able to get classes once I get it back.  Please keep in touch with me.  I have done a few embroideries and they come out really good.

             

          4. mybostonterriers | | #21

            Good Morning,

              Thank-You for replying, yes I do want to keep in touch!

              How or why would you be rough with your machine? The money you had to pay for our machine, I don't think any-one would be rough with their machine, were not kids! That is what Customer (non) Service at Viking told me with my dongle for the Customizer told me. That is why after 20 years of Viking I switched to Pfaff. I found out quickly Viking do not stand behind their machines! So slowly I have beem getting rid of my Viking products. I'm going to be getting rid if a Scandanavia computer machine and a Viking serger, I just don't want any Viking stuff in my home!

              I'm going to bite the bullet and try the embroidery on my own! Wish me luck! What machine did you have before the CV? What kind of sewing do you like to do?

               I have to get ready for work, maybe I can talk to you tonight!

                                                                 

             

          5. Tottie | | #22

            I've had several machines through the years - my favorite 2 were the Pfaff 1471, 30 years old, I sewed on it for 20 years then gave it to my daughter.  She sewed on it until 1995 and it died.  I brought it back home and took it to my dealer and he fixed it - that's what I'm sewing on now while my CV is in the hospital.

            My 2nd favorite was my Elna CE20 Envision which embroideried using a card.  I loved it very much, but missed the IDT of the Pfaff.  I used a quilting foot to make up for the IDT and did fine with that.  After buying the CV, I sold my Elna CE20 and I am so sorry that I did.

            I also have a Pfaff Grand Quilter, just the machine, no place for a quilting frame in my house.  I do dream about getting one, though.  My serger is an Elna also.

            I have always done a lot of sewing - clothes for myself and my children, pjs for my children and grandkids, bags, purses, quillows, quilts, Christmas stockings, decorating dish towels and towels.  After the storm, Katrina, I made curtains for the Jewish church for a friend of mine - they were very simple but much appreciated because they had lost their church and everything in it with the storm.

            On the embroidery, I was used to using templates also, but the little I did with my CV, I found out you just have to mark the center you want and center it on the hoop.  Of course, I haven't done any embroidery since the end of May because of the trouble with my CV.  I didn't want to ruin good fabric/special threads.

            Tottie

             

          6. mybostonterriers | | #23

            HI TOOTIE;

              THANKS FOR WRITING BACK! WOW SOUNDS LIKE YOU REALLY DO ALOT OF SEWING!

            I WISH I HAD LOTS OF TIME BUT I DON'T, STILL WORKING FULL TIME! IT SOUNDS LIKE YOUR HAPPY WITH THE PFAFF MACHINES, EXCEPT FOR THE CV. I THINK YOU WILL BE HAPPY ONCE IT IS UP AND RUNNING. HOW MUCH LONGER BEFORE YOU WILL HAVE IT BACK?

            WERE YOU IN THE KATRINA STORM? MY SWEET LITTLE BOSTON TERRIER MALE CAME FROM THERE, SOMEWHERE IN MISSISSIPPI. A FRIEND OF A BREEDER OF BOSTON TERRIERS RESCUED SOME PUPPIES AND BROUGHT THEM TO ILLINOIS. MY HUSBAND BOUGHT ONE AS A SURPRISE FOR MY 50TH BIRTHDAY. HE IS JUST A LOVE, A REAL SOUTHERN GENTLEMAN!

              I LOVE MAKING COATS FOR THEM, IL WEATHER IS PRETTY HARSH. MY MALE WILL NOT GO OUTSIDE IN THE WINTER WITHOUT HIS COAT!

            ITS GETTING LATE, I HAVE TO GO  TO WORK TOMORROW AM.

            ENJOYED CHATTING WITH YOU!

                                                                        CARLA

          7. Tottie | | #24

            Hi Carla,

            My daughter's name is Carla, she lives in Minnesota, I'm from Louisiana 25 miles west of New Orleans.  We did get hit with Katrina in 2005 - had to have our roof replaced, we lost a huge oak tree in our back yard, luckly it fell the opposite way from our home, but mashed our neighbor's shop.  We also lost a freezer full of cook food, and lots of seafood, meats, etc.  Our insurance took care of our loss, thank God, and we had no flooding.

            I do do a lot of sewing.  I have a few ladies who meet at my house on Tuesdays to sew together, its lots of fun, we teach each other and help each other.  We are usually 3 sometimes 4.  One lady and her family have a food booth at the Jass Fest in N.O. and she was making money aprons, so my sister and I helped her make 25 of them.  We cut them out one day, the next two Tuesdays we sewed them up assembly style, it was such fun.  Today we were all sewing on quilt squares for each of our own quilt.

            I don't know when I will get my CV back from the manufacturer - its a week today that it was shipped.  Will let you know when I get it back.

            Tottie

          8. mybostonterriers | | #25

            HI TOOTIE!

              SOUNDS LIKE A LOT OF FUN TODAY! IT IS PRETTY NEAT THAT YOU DO ALOT OF DIFFERENT KINDS OF SEWING! I WISH WE HAD SOMETHING LIKE THAT HERE. I DON'T THINK SEWING IS THAT POPULAR IN OUR TOWN. WE HAVE ONLY WAL-MART FOR FABRICS. MY FAVORITE FABRIC SHOP HANCOCK FABRICS WHICH CLOSED LAST YEAR, IT WAS 30 MILES AWAY. THE NEXT CLOSEST FABRIC SHOP IS 50 MILES AWAY. OUR TOWN HAS 1 SEWING MACHINE SHOP IN TOWN THAT SELLS JAMONE.

              I GUESS YOU WERE PRETTY LUCKY WITH THE KATRINA STORM!  

              I LIVE IN ILLINOIS, WERE 3 HOURS WEST OF CHICAGO AND 45 MINUTES FROM THE QUAD CITIES. WE ARE PLANNING TO SEE MY BROTHER IN CANTON,MS IN OCT. I HOPE IT IS COOL THERE WHEN WE GO. IT IS SO BEAUTIFUL THERE! THEY  HAVE THE BEST WATER AND GREAT FOOD!

            I HAVE TO GET READY FOR WORK, I WILL TALK TO YOU LATER, AND HAVE LOTS OF FUN TODAY!

                                                                   CARLA

             

             

             

          9. Tottie | | #26

            Carla,

            How long have you had your CV machine?  Where in MS will you be going in Oct.?  I plan on stopping at a Pfaff Dealership in MS on our way to Pensacola, FL.  I want to look into getting classes from this dealership.  It about 85 miles from me, but the nearest one which offers classes on the CV and sells them.  I'll just be checking them out while we're passing through.  Our youngest son lives in Pensacola and we haven't seen him since Easter.

            The fabric dept. at our Wal-Mart closed last year and we have to travel 35+ miles to buy fabric and supplies.

            Tottie

          10. mybostonterriers | | #27

            Hi Tootie!

               My brother lives in Canton,MS. Is it close to you? Too bad you have to travel so far for classes, I was driving 60 miles to Rockford, Il and hated that! I don't like driving in big towns or traffic! I bought my machine in Feb of this year trading my SE on it. My dealer told me that many sewing machine dealers are going out of business, she said sewing is not as popular. They were unable to sell their dealership.

                                                                    Carla

          11. mybostonterriers | | #28

            Hi Tootie,

               Just wondering if you got your CV back yet, if so how did it go? Did they tell you what was wrong, did they stand behind it? Did you buy it from a Pfaff dealer, if so why did they not offer classes? My dealer retired and I'm thinking about going to a another dealer in Sandwich,Il. Still haven't done any embroideries yet, just doing some clothing repairs that are piling up. Which I hate to do. But the CV made it more enjoyable!

                                                     Carla

          12. Tottie | | #29

            Carla,

            I haven't gotten my CV back yet and haven't heard anything about it either.  I called the dealer that sent it in, he's suppose to try to find out something about it.  The dealer I bought it from was supposed to give classes, but after owning the machine for 4 months, I still hadn't had a class - she kept promising, but never had one.  She kept putting off repairing my needle threader - she is no longer listed as a dealer.    Anyway, I spent some time with a dealer who offers classes and I am thinking about maybe going there.  I just don't see anyone getting the most out of the CV without classes.  I wish Pfaff would stand behind their product and make their dealers fulfull their promises.  If we bought a tv or other appliances and it wasn't working right, we could bring it back to the store and get our money back, why not sewing machines.  Enough of that song and dance.

            So, you're doing what I did also. When I first got my CV, I did mending that was stacked up - it gives you a chance to learn the machine's features and changing threads, winding bobbins, etc.  I also took old shirts and emblished them with fancy designs, put embroidery on some, made pants, shirts, put designs on towels.  I've been sewing on my old Pfaff 1471 and my Pfaff Grand Quilter since my CV is gone.  I am finishing up quilting a king size quilt with fabric I bought when we went to Hawaii in 2006.  I just have one border to finish quilting, hope to finish that today and also put the binding on.

            Let me know if you get to class and how things are going.  Thanks for your concern about my problems.

            Tootie 

          13. mybostonterriers | | #30

            Hi Tootie,

               I'm very disappointed that you have not received your CV back! Was it sent back to the factory? Have you spoken to Pfaff Customer Service? I sure hope for your sake they aren't like the Viking  Customer (NON) Service!

             Sounds like you have done a really big project, and are almost finished? I'm not a quilter. I have a few quilt tops done many years ago by some Aunts I never knew. They were deceased when I was born. I'm 52, so I guess they are pretty old. I keep them in a cedar chest. Just in case I might take up quilting someday.

             One thing I did notice last night when sewing the needle threader rattles when the machine is running. Do you remember if yours did? Otherwise the machine did great, stitches were beautiful, I love the IDT system which Viking doesn't offer!

              Keep me updated on your machine and if you decide to do classes!

                                                         Best wishes,

                                                             Carla

          14. Tottie | | #31

            Carla,

            I finished quilting on my king size quilt today, now all I have to do is bind all the edges and I'll be done.  I had my granddaughter (10 years) come to help me, she's been very interested in sewing and last year she made notebook covers for all her teachers for Christmas.  She told me today that she wanted to do that again this year.  She has a quilt that is all ready to quilt but has been putting it off all summer.  I don't push her, I let her get interested by herself.

            You are a youngester, I'm 71.  I haven't talked to Customer Service because the dealer who sent in the machine said it wouldn't do any good.  I'll let you know when I get my machine, though.  About the needle threader, I don't remember it rattling, it was hard to thread the needle, then it broke.  Sure hope this doesn't happen to you.

            Tottie

          15. mybostonterriers | | #32

            Hi Tootie,

              Did you get your Pfaff CV back yet?

              We had a great time in MS, the weather was great, upper 70's. My brother said I brought the Northern weather with us!

               They sure have great food there! We both ate too much! How was your trip?

                                                                      Carla

          16. Tottie | | #33

            Hi Carla,

            I did get my CV back on Wed. the 15th, but I am very disappointed because the needle threader does not work properly because it is not aligned correctly.  The stitch is not so good - when I sent it in it had a beautiful stitch.  I bobbin winder is very sluggish - didn't have that trouble before I sent it in.  Tried to get intouch with tech services - I left 2 messages and I don't get a call-back. 

            I haven't stopped sewing, though - I'm using the CV hoping it will loosen up or something.  I cost me $185.00 to send it in and for a bench charge.  Not sure what my next move will be.

            How are you doing with your CV?  I hope your needle threader doesn't give you trouble because you said it was rattling last time I heard from you.

            Glad you had fun in MS - we have been having lovely weather here also.  Let me know how you're doing.  Please lets keep in touch.

            Tottie

          17. mybostonterriers | | #34

            Good Morning Tootie,

              I'm very disappointed to hear about your CV! I really feel bad for you! I hope there is a recourse for you! I haven't used my CV that much lately. I still haven't tried the embroidery yet. I still like how quiet my machine is! So much better than the SE and D1 I had. My favorite Viking was the Rose, but not a very big design area. I still have a Scandinavia, that I bought for my granddaughter. I think it has been used maybe 2 or 3 times, it does not embroider. I may sell it along with the Viking serger.

              I may see how it goes with the CV I may sell it also. I'm so disappointed that Pfaff is not taking care of you! Sounds like the same scenario I had with Viking not standing behind their product. It really sounds like you got a lemon, is their a lemon law for sewing machines, like there is for cars? If you decide to sell your CV which machine would you buy next? Have you found another Pfaff dealer, someone who wants to help?

               I'm getting ready to do some easy projects for my 3 Boston Terriers. They love soft toys that I make out of old blue jeans of my husbands. I do a heavy overcast stitch around the edges so they can't destroy it, it usally takes a couple years for my female to destroy it! They usually play with rubber toys outside but in the house I like the soft toys, less likely to break something! I know it is going to be a long winter when theyy don't want to go out! Then I have had several requests for hoodies out of polar fleece for my friends with small dogs.

              Please keep me informed about your CV, I'm very interested what the outcome will be!

                                                               I enjoy hearing from you!

                                                                           Carla

          18. Tottie | | #35

            Carla,

            I did get my CV back last Wednesday, but I'm not satisfied with it.  The stitch is not good, it was beautiful before I sent it in.  The needle threader is not set right and I can't seem to thread the needle with it, so I'm still threading the machine by hand.  The bobbin winder was fine when I sent it in, but now it goes fast, slows down, goes fast, stops - its a mess.  I just paid $185 for nothing.

            I called the tech department and left 2 messages and didn't get a return call.  Today I called and they said, "If this is an emergency dial "0", so I did and talked to a lady at length.  She told me she would have the tech who worked on my machine to call me back.  That was around 2:00 this afternoon, but he never called back. 

            I have been sewing on it anyway and making notes for future reference.  Juist don't know where to turn anymore. 

            Tottie

          19. mybostonterriers | | #36

            Good Morning Tootie,

                  At one point with my needle threader, I went to a smaller needle size and it threaded fine, I think I had a large needle in it, like one for jeans. Just a thought.

                If I were you I would call every day, until I got satisfaction, the squeeky wheel gets the grease! Have you went through the web site for Pfaff and E-Mailed them about your problems. Speak to your lawyer have him/her send them a letter to who you purchased the machine from and maybe that letter to Pfaff to let them know you mean business! I decided on the CV was the video from Martha Stewart she endorsed this machine. Watch the video on marthastewart.com under crafts. You could let her know also thru E-Mail also how bad your machine is! You paid a lot of money for the machine, I wouldn't let it go. The way they left your machine there is little value for it.

               I had trouble with my first Viking embroidery machine, it would just take off very fast with horrible stitches. Took it back to  my dealer in C., Ia. She said they "Fixed" it put a new board in it, I don't think she did because it didn't cure the problem. So I took it to another Dealer and traded it in for the Rose then the D1, I really liked this Dealer and it was closer and he then went out of business. So I wanted the SE and I went back to the first Dealer who lied about the new board, and I had the problem with the dongle, that is why I decided to switch to Pfaff. I was just looking for a quality machine and a honest Dealer, and now he has retired. He will still service my machine. I just can't win!

                                                            KEEP ME INFORMED!

                                                                      Carla

          20. MaryinColorado | | #37

            Have you tried putting the needle at it's highest point when using the threader?  I agree about the larger needles, I had that problem with size 100 topstitching needles and the wing needles aren't supposed to at all.  No one mentions this at the dealers.

            I am sorry that you are having so many problems with your CV.  Maybe you can insist on a replacement machine if your state has a lemon law.  You shouldn't have to pay a penny the first year as the warranty sure ought to cover it!  I'd be livid!!!  These machines are such a big investment, you are not being treated fairly and I sympathise completely!  Maybe call your distric attorney or consumer protection agency.

            The only problem I've had with my Vikings was when they let an inexperienced tech clean and service it.  After that I insisted that their service manager be the only one to touch my machines.  Mary

            Edited 10/23/2008 8:59 pm by MaryinColorado

          21. Tottie | | #38

            Mary,

            I have tried everything - put the needle in its highest position, then moved it very slowly down, tried and tried again. NOTHING WORKS.  I can see the pin but it doesn't go into the needle's eye.  I have never had problems with a needle threader on my other machines - just pull it down and viola its done.  Needles sizes never bothered them before.  You're right I did get a lemon, don't know where I will go next, but something needs to be done.  If I had a bum tv, I could return it and get my money back, don't know what I'll do next.  Thanks for your concern.  Do you have a CV also?  If so, let me know how you're doing with yours.

            Tottie

          22. MaryinColorado | | #39

            I hope you will be able to get satisfaction somehow.  I have the Viking Designer I and haven't even dared to upgrade to the memory stick because my dealer went out of business and I don't trust anyone else to mess with the closest thing to perfection that I've ever had in a sewing machine.  I also have the Huskylock 936 my dream serger, and have given my DGD the Rose, and an old Singer.  I'd love to have one of the new machines with the larger hoops and new technology but not ready to invest at this time. 

            I'm anxious to hear that Pfaff stands behind their product!  I do own the new Pfaff 4DSuite software and am impressed with it so far.  No training available nearby at this time for that unfortunately since the two shops in my area were taken over by another Pfaff dealer who got rid of the wonderful employees who knew the software!  I'm angry and frustrated about that so I can relate to how you feel about an even larger investment from Pfaff.  Mary

          23. MaryinColorado | | #74

            Hi Tottie!  Have you gotten any satisfaction re your machine yet?  Please let us know if there is any way we can help!  If you need us, we try to be there for you!  I sure hope things were worked out to your satisfaction!  Mary

          24. Tottie | | #75

            Mary,

            I was transferred to another dealer who checked my machine and said it had 2 bad boards and suggested to Pfaff that I get a new Creative Vision.  Well, today was that day and I got a new machine and a lesson on things I never did understand.  She answered question that I needed answers to 10 months ago.  Your machine is only as good as your dealer, I just found out.

            I sewed on it and embroidered something - no bird's nest, no needle breakage, no foot breakage.  I hope and pray that this will solve my problems and that I can get back to my life of fun and creative sewing.  My doctor will be happy because my blood sugar was out of wack which was caused by stress.

            Thanks for your concern.

            Tottie

          25. MaryinColorado | | #76

            I am so thrilled to hear that your story has a happy resolution!!!  yahoo!!!  Now you can feel the joy that should have been there from the beginning.  Let the past go now, and have fun creating with your new jewel!!!  Thanks for letting me know!

            Enjoy!  Mary

          26. User avater
            ThreadKoe | | #77

            Hooorrraaayyyyy!!!!!!!   Happy Sewing for Tottie!!!!  I am so glad you finally got some resolution on this matter.  Now on to some fun stuff.  Cathy

          27. mybostonterriers | | #40

            Tootie,

              I fully agree with Mary! Maybe a letter from your lawyer to the dealer you bought the machine from, stating that you WANT A REPLACEMENT MACHINE OR YOUR MONEY BACK. That just might get their attention. Is that dealer still in business? Have you kept track of your communications with the dealer and Pfaff. I'm a nurse and documentation is vital! I really wouldn't let this go! I was upset with Viking and their nonservice. This really makes me ANGRY. I have read other comments about machine dealers, and how those dealers give a customer a new machine when it is not working correctly.

               I know I haven't used the machine much, but I'm thinking about getting rid of it, before I start having problems with it. I don't know which brand I would go to next, but I know it won't be a Pfaff or Viking! We do have a Janome dealer in town who services and gives classes. I don't know if he would take it in as a trade in or not. I wonder if there are any Janome sewers out there that are happy with their machines. If there are please let me know!

                                                                        Please keep me updated!

                                                                                      Carla

             

          28. MaryinColorado | | #41

            I'm going to hope and pray the political and economic climate improves internationally as it is at the heart of alot of these issues as corporations claw to make a profit and/or survive. 

            Another company may honor their warranty more quickly or seem to be "better" but they also may not be in business tomorrow.  Sorry, don't mean to be negative, but we have to fight for our rights more and more these days or join the list of victims of a larger crisis.   Mary

            Edited 10/26/2008 10:29 am by MaryinColorado

          29. mybostonterriers | | #42

            Hi Mary,

               I feel your right, it is all about money, to bad for the little guy, the consumer. I just hope Tootie gets taken care of! It is just wrong that Pfaff is not making it right for her! Just because your the customer doesn't mean you don't have to take care of them and make things right! That is not the American way, at least not the way I was brought up! My Dad retired out of Alcoa the aluminum company of AMERICA after 30+ years and they still take great care of him and Mom!

               Nice talking to you again!

                                                                Carla

          30. MaryinColorado | | #43

            I hope she gets satisfaction dealing with Pfaff too.  I hope it's just a matter of speaking with the right customer service person.  If not, maybe there is some way we could help her, writing a letter to Pfaff, or getting the word out so others know about their customer service "problem". 

          31. Tottie | | #48

            Mary & Carla,

            I like your comments and thank you for ralling around me and my problem.  I don't feel so isolated from the world because people like you want to help others.  I've always been taught to help others and I've done that all my life, then someone comes along like my (supposed) dealer and rips me off - my money, my classes, my service.  Well, my machine should be getting to Ohio sometime this week for the 2nd time in 3 weeks.  I have requested a new one, but don't know if I will get it; and if I do get another one - will it be better or the same junk.  I could have bought a car for the money I paid for this machine.  It's robbed me of my creativity and my passion of sewing and my trust and faith in people.

            I'll let you guys know if and when I need you to write letters on my behalf  - that is a very kind thing to do.  We might need each others help on this machine.

            In the meantime, I'll be sewing on my quilter or my 30 yr old Pfaff and my serger.  Thanks to all who responsed.

            Tottie

          32. mybostonterriers | | #49

            Tottie,

               I will help with any letter you may need, I almost wrote to Martha Stewart on her web site, but I didn't want to over step my bounds! I really truely hope you get a new machine, that would help my faith with Pfaff! I would like to see the little guy win for a change! HANG IN  THERE!

                                                                     CARLA

          33. MaryinColorado | | #52

            I hope they are paying for the shipping this time since it appears to be their lack of quality control in the plant and their lack of initiative or knowledge on the part of the service person who worked on it last time, not you, the consumer.  So they should cover all costs at least during the warranty period. 

            I will be thinking positive thoughts and hope you will have a positve outcome to reaffirm your trust in others.  Mary

          34. Tottie | | #55

            Well, guys - I've had the most fun I've ever had with my CV - tracking it to Ohio.  It's supposed to be delivered today at West Lake, Ohio.

            Sure hope I get a call from the techs there with good news.  Thanks for helping me get through this rough time and I will keep you updated on the progress.

            Tottie

          35. MaryinColorado | | #56

            Could you call request that a "very experienced tech" examine and fix your machine?  I sure hope this all works out exceptionally well for you.  There is so much sewing and embroidery fun on the horizon for you!  (Much more fun than tracking your CV's travel, but that is interesting the way that works, isn't it?)  Hope to hear good news soon, I'm thinking positive thoughts!!!  Mary

          36. mybostonterriers | | #65

            Hi Tootie,

               I haven't seen any posts for awhile from you. Just wondering if you got your CV back yet? If so how is it working? Hope everything is fine! I had read a few things on the CV in Pattern Review, one lady wrote that she had a very nice dealer and Pfaff Customer Servive treated her well. She was offered a repair or a new CV when she had problems with her machine!

                                                                      Carla

                                                                

          37. Tottie | | #66

            Yes, I got my CV back.  I will post something within the next few week after I've had a chance to work with it for a while.

            How are you doing with yours?

            Tottie

          38. mybostonterriers | | #67

            Hi Tootie,

               Glad to hear you got your CV back! Hope they repaired it right this time! Did they say what they did to it? I have working to many hours the past few weeks and haven't had time to sew.

                                                                      Carla

                                                                

          39. mybostonterriers | | #68

            GOOD EVENING TOOTIE,

                   I WAS WONDERING, IF I MISSED SOMETHING ON THE CV. DOES THE CV HAVE A BUTTON TO CHOOSE IF YOU WANT THE NEEDLE UP WHEN YOU STOP STITCHING, I DON'T MEAN YOU PUSH THE BUTTON, IT AUTOMATICALLY DOES IT. HOPE SO I ALWAYS LIKED THIS FEATURE ON THE VIKING SE. I'M GUESSING IT DOESN'T, BUT I THOUGHT I WOULD CHECK WITH YOU.

                HAVE YOU WORKED WITH YOUR CV SINCE YOU GOT IT BACK, HOW IS IT GOING?

                                                                            THANK-YOU!

                                                                                 CARLA

          40. Tottie | | #69

            The needle up is automatic, if you want the needle to stay down, you have to push the button on the very left "needle down".  I have used my CV since I got it back and it is just terrible - runs away and give "motor overload" again.  Also, the stitch is very bad at times, other times it is very good - go figure.   Pfaff is sending me to another dealer - going tomorrow - I'll let you know what happens.

            Tottie

          41. mybostonterriers | | #70

            HI TOOTIE,

              I THOUGHT SO, BUT I WAS HOPING I MISSED SOMETHING. THE SE YOU COULD USE THE NEEDLE UP OR DOWN, YOU DIDN'T HAVE TO PUSH THE BUTTON EACH TIME. 1 NEG AGAINST THIS MACHINE. MY NEEDLE THREADER IS WORKING GREAT, I USED A JEANS NEEDLE IN IT AND IT WORKED FINE. I STILL HAVEN'T TRIED THE EMBROIDERY YET. I HAVEN'T GOT THE MACHINE OVERLOAD MESSAGE. THE SPEED IS GREAT, I DO LIKE THE IDT FEATURE.

              I MAY CHECK OUT THE DIAMOND AFTER CHRISTMAS! I REALLY MISS NOT GETTING CLASSES! THERE IS A NEW VIKING DEALER ACOSS THE RIVER. I WONDER WHAT SHE WILL DO FOR A TRADE-IN?

               HAS PFAFF OFFERED A NEW MACHINE, BECAUSE OF THE LEMON YOU GOT? I WOULD PUSH THIS ISSUE!

                                              GOOD LUCK, KEEP ME INFORMED!

                                                                     CARLA

             

          42. Tottie | | #71

            I'll let you know tomorrow what happens today.  By the way, how many hours do you have on you CV?  There are no Pfaff, Viking or Hus dealers near me.  The dealers closest to me are Bernina and Janome.  In fact, I go to a quilting shop once a month for Block of the Month quilts, and they sell the Bernina.  He is really interested in what's happening to my Pfaff and what kind of service I get.  They will have the brand new Bernina when we go in December and most people there are Bernina owners.  My sister ownes a Bernina. 

            Tottie

            PS: Carla, please email me at [email protected]

            Edited 11/18/2008 5:27 pm ET by Tottie

          43. damascusannie | | #44

            You wrote: Just because your the customer doesn't mean you don't have to take care of them and make things right! That is not the American way...,~~Ah, but sewing machines aren't American products and the companies that own them aren't American either. Pfaff, Viking, Huskvarna and Singer are all owned by the same European holding company now and the concern among dealers and other experts has been that service is going down the tubes. I have a friend who just closed her Viking dealership--started by her dad over 30 years ago--because she just didn't feel that the company cared about the consumer any more. She was told by her company rep to stop servicing machines that are more than 10 years old, no matter what the warranty said, because her job was to sell new machines, not fix old ones. That was the last straw for Sandy and she's much happier staying home and quilting.

          44. User avater
            ThreadKoe | | #45

            It is such a sad thing to have become a disposable society.  It used to be that you bought an appliance, such as a stove or fridge and expected it to last 20 or 30 yrs trouble free.  Not so any more.  A friend in the repair business told me that now there is built in obsolescence.  A stove or fridge has a 6 yr lifespan, with parts no longer made after 5 years, no longer kept in stock after 8.  You can expect repairs after the warranty runs out, major repairs after 3 years.  Expect to replace major appliances every 5 years.  It is often cheaper to replace than to repair, with repairs often costing half that of the new appliance.  He can't get parts to service perfectly good machines that need a simple thing to fix, or the people say they can replace the machines for what it would cost to fix them!   Cathy

          45. damascusannie | | #46

            This is why I use old sewing machines. As you know, my newest machine is from the 50s and still going strong. It was made at a time when folks demanded quality and longevity in their machines.Annie in Wisconsin, USA
            ~~Doodlestein Designs Quilt Patterns
            ~~Finely Finished: Machine quilting worked on a treadle sewing machine.
            See patterns, quilting, and National sewing machines at: http://community.webshots.com/user/damascusannie

            Edited 10/27/2008 1:53 pm by damascusannie

          46. User avater
            ThreadKoe | | #47

            I hear ya loud and clear.  That is why I baby my old girl (30 yr old Bernina) and even older Elna and Singer Treadle machines so much.  Even with the farm, he refurbishes and repairs before buying new as much as possible.  The newer stuff just is not as sturdy.  He is known to mutter "Everything that is old is new again."  He sees old technology come around in a new form, and he is still using the old one in some way! 

            My brother the carpenter likes his hand tools.  He says electric tools only make mistakes deeper faster.   There is a lot to be said for the slow  hand made methods. Cathy

          47. mybostonterriers | | #50

            HI,

               Your right the machines aren't made in the USA but they are sold in the USA. That  doesn't mean the dealers who sold the machines shouldn't stand behind them! They sold them in the USA. Thanks for your input!

                I have never done quilting, I like machine embroidery. But I suppose I would probably use my Grandmother's old Singer, I don't know the age but I think she had it electrified, and it has a gold Spinx on it. She died in her late 70's and it was left to her, she has been gone almost 30 years. She did use it for quilting.

                                                                        Carla

          48. damascusannie | | #51

            If you send me the serial number, I can tell you when it was commissioned.

          49. mybostonterriers | | #53

            Hi,

              The number I found on the Singer is G1350980. I also have an old Plymonth that I picked up at an auction. It is a very attractive machine, have you ever heard of it?

               Thank-You for the information, I have always wondered how old these machines were.

                                                                     Carla

                             

          50. damascusannie | | #54

            The Singer was commissioned on June 28, 1911 and is a model 27 according to current information. If it's got the long bobbins that go into a bullet shuttle, that will be the correct model. I'd need to see a picture of the Plymouth as it appears that a couple of different companies made machines that were given this name. That's not unusual as retailers often changed manufacturers but kept the same name for their machines.

          51. mybostonterriers | | #57

            WOW!

              That is an old Singer, it does have the "bullet" style bobbin. Is there any value to it?

            The Plymonth is a very nice looking machine, it kind of looks like a Singer, I haven't had it out in years. I will have to take a picture of it sometime.

                                    Thank-You for the information!

                                                                 Carla

          52. damascusannie | | #58

            As far as value goes, it's mostly in the cabinet. A fancy cabinet in good condition can have considerable value, although most cabinets are fairly common and only worth $50-150 depending on where you live. I have many, many treadle sewing machines and I think the most valuable one in my collection would just barely squeak into that $150 range. I personally have never paid more than $125 and most of my machines were acquired for $50 or less. Sounds like the Plymouth is a Japanese "clone" but again, I'd need to see pictures to be sure.

          53. mybostonterriers | | #59

            Thank-You for all the great information!

                                                                  Carla

          54. damascusannie | | #60

            Oh, I forgot to mention that a 1911 machine isn't considered terribly old in the collector world. You have to get into the 1880s and earlier before we get REALLY excited about the age. >grin< Singer was making well over a million machines a year by 1900, so machines made in the 20th century are not rare and most are not considered to be highly collectible, which is why we encourage people to use them.

          55. mybostonterriers | | #61

            Thank-You, nice useful information!

                                                          Carla

          56. User avater
            ThreadKoe | | #62

            Thank you for that interesting tidbit about those machines being fairly common Annie, and being encouraged to use them.  I always wondered about that, as I was afraid that I might damage mine.  I think I will just refashion a table for it as well.  Thanks for the advice.  You are a real gem.  Cathy

          57. damascusannie | | #63

            Well, shoot--thanks! In my own studio you know I regularly sew on machines that date to around 1920, including my main piecing machine. I have older machines, but workhorse machines were picked for their specific functions.

          58. User avater
            ThreadKoe | | #64

            The cabinet on mine began falling apart a few years ago, and I was worried if I continued to use it, I would devalue it.  Since the value is in the use of the machine.....No Worry!  I have come across better cabinets at auctions, so I will switch them happily now.   Or maybe just have my brother fashion a worktable like you have for mine.  I still love the way she stitches, and the rhythem is so soothing when I am agitated!  Thanks again Darlin'   Cathy

          59. sarahbel | | #72

            Hi, Carla,

            I had an old Pfaff1222 that I loved but it was OLD. I traded for a Janome Memorycraft 9000 & have been pretty satisfied with it. Right after I bought the machine I was diagnosed w/cancer & what with the treatment, surgery, etc. never got around to taking classes in using embroidery. (I've been cancer-free for 8 years now.) I could see the support & I'm afraid the quality of Pfaff began to slip about the time I traded.

            There is an equally old Pfaff 1222 in use in Alabama in my daughter's home. She doesn't want any other, even tho her repair shop has to cannibalize other Pfaffs to repair hers. We both worked for the Pfaff dealer in our hometown who also sold New Home machines, that later became Janome. I love 'em all, as long as I can be creative with them. 

            Keep on stitchin'!

            Sarahbel 

          60. mybostonterriers | | #73

            HI SARABEL!

                 NICE TO HEAR FROM YOU! I HAVE THE PFAFF CREATIVE VISION. I'M NOT SURE I'M GOING TO KEEP IT. I'M THINKING ABOUT TRADING IT ON THE VIKING DIAMOND. WHEN I TRADED MY VIKING SE ON IT I WAS VERY, VERY DISCOURAGED ABOUT THE VIKING CUSTOMER SERVICE. BUT AFTER I BOUGHT THE CV I TOOK SOME LESSONS THEN THE DEALER WENT OUT OF BUSINESS. I NEVER GOT TO THE EMBROIDERY PART BEFORE THEY WENT OUT OF BUSINESS. SO THEREFORE I HAVEN'T USED THE EMBROIDERY. I HAVE FIGURED OUT IT WAS MY VIKNG DEALER WITH THE HELP OF SOME OF THE OTHER MEMBERS OF THIS FROM THIS WEB SITE I SHOULD OF CHECKED OUT SOME OTHER VIKING DEALERS IN MY AREA. WELL THE DEALER I HAD ALWAYS DELT WITH SOLD OUT. SO THERE IS A NEW DEALER. I HAVE THOUGHT ABOUT GOING TO HER AND SEEING WHAT SHE WILL DO ON A TRADE-IN. MY CV FOR THE DIAMOND.

                GLAD TO HEAR THAT YOU ARE DOING GREAT WITH THE DX. OF CANCER! MY DAD HAD COLON CANCER 30 YEARS AGO HE IS 79!  HIS GARDEN IS AN ACRE! HE IS VERY ACTIVE STILL LIVES ON THE FARM WITH MOM! THEY ARE ALWAYS AT ANTIQUE AUCTIONS, HAVE 2 ROTTIES THAT WEIGH MORE THAN HIM! HE MAKES HIS OWN WINE, THAT IS HIS HOBBY FOR THE WINTER!

               NICE TALKING TO YOU! E-MAIL ME ANYTIME! I WORK FULL TIME AS A NURSE 10+ HOURS 4 DAYS A WEEK. SO I USUALLY DON'T ANSWER EMAILS UNTIL EVENINGS OR EARLY AM'S.

                THIS A REALLY NEAT SITE YOU MEET ALOT OF NICE PEOPLE! WHAT STATE DO YOU LIVE IN? I LIVE IN ILLINOIS.

                                                                      CARLA

      3. User avater
        SandraC | | #5

        Oops, Lisa reminded me I must have had the 1475 since I did have the Creative Designer.

         

        Sandra

        1. Ceeayche | | #6

          My 1473 CD has a creative designer.  I never use it.  Way tooo much drama!  But I agree with others, this machine has been a great little work horse.

  2. meg | | #7

    And digging back a bit farther than the 1400-series, I have a 1222E (it's my 'youngest' machine) which I bought in 1981. At the time, it was TOL and $900. It is prized by seamstresses for its' quality stitches, and I have seen some sewing class offered by a designer where the machines are provided. They have a roomful of 1222Es for student use.

  3. Betakin | | #8

    One of my machines is a Pfaff Select 1530 and it is a few years old and now discontinued. It is a real workhorse. It seems that each different gouping of Pfaff's has it's own numbering system depending if mechanical or computerized etc.

    I certainly cannot give advice on any Pfaff models to stay away from. I have heard complaints and seen posts on line about some of the newer models that have come out have a plastic hook system causing some problems.

    In the past there was a certain model that had the dancing foot problem that Pfaff had to do some repairs on. I have seen some complaints over at Pfaff talk and on PR about some models that don't do nice buttonholes. The only other problems that I have heard of involving Pfaff's were some of the Pfaff computerized models surprisingly have batteries that need to be changed from time to time to prevent corrosion and to keep the machine working properly. I have no complaints about my Pfaff but it is a mechanical model and all of my other brand machines are computerized and I love my Pfaff's IDT.

     



    Edited 8/27/2008 2:24 am ET by Betakin

  4. Stillsewing | | #10

    I purchased a Pfaff 7550 in April 1995. It was superceded almost immediately by the 7750. As far as I know there is very little difference between them until about a year later Pfaff introduced the Creative series which is much further advanced than the 75.. series.

    I have found the 7550 a fantastic machine, utterly reliable, I can always manage the tension, it doesn't break threads needles etc (and my patience) like the previous machines that my mother and I shared. If I were to purchase a machine in the morning, and I have no need, I would buy a Pfaff again.

    1. mybostonterriers | | #11

      Thank-you for your answer, it was very helpful. I'm thinking about a 2nd machine to keep my grand-daughter off my Creative Vision.

      I'm new to Pfaff machines, why are there no templates like my Viking had for hooping? My dealer went out of business before we got to the embroidery part of the machine. It is probably a dumb question my book doesn't tell me. There is probably a simple answer. I would appreciate any help you can give me.

                                        Thank-You!

      1. Stillsewing | | #12

        I think that the 7570 may have what you are seeking in relation to embroidery. It superseded the 7550. I use my machine for straight forward sewing and seldom or ever for embroidery. In sewing, I have used many of the non straight stitches but I have seldom needed to use a hoop for my style of sewing! All I have used are the alphabets for decorating and that worked very well for me.
        I think that I need some one to inspire to use the machine to its fullest extent!

        1. mybostonterriers | | #13

          HI,

            THANK-YOU FOR ANSWERING, I WANT TO CHECK OUT THIS MODEL OF PFAFF.

            MAY I SUGGEST TRYING A SIMPLE  SMALL DESIGN THAT YOU HOOP WITH A SMALL (100X100) HOOP. TRY SOMETHING ON A SIMPLE ON A KITCHEN TOWEL. THERE ARE SO MANY CUTE DESIGNS OUT THERE FREE. I HAVE FRUIT CHALK WARE FROM THE 40'S ON MY KITCHEN WALLS AND HAVE DONE SOME SIMPLE FRUIT LIKE CHERRRIES AND APPLES ON A FEW TOWELS, THEY ARE CUTE. SOMETHING TO CONSIDER.

                                    AGAIN THANK-YOU FOR YOUR HELP!

           

          1. Stillsewing | | #14

            Thanks for the encouragement but I don't think it is possible to use designs not already loaded in the machine. There are lots of different stitches in the programme and it suits me fine. However when I bought my machine I did not have a computer at home and did not buy the computer attachment. Pfaff do not have it now and it is not possible to buy it. So while I could use the preprogrammed designs on my machine they don't really inspire me. It would me no harm to finish off a few projects if I were really honest with myself.

          2. mybostonterriers | | #15

            Good Evening,

            Can you check E-Bay under Pfaff; I check this every nite to see what is new for auction, what is the model number of your machine and what is the name of the accessory that you need, I will check for you, if your not familiar with E-Bay. I think that you would really get into the embroidery with the right equipment! It is whole bunch of fun! Let me know!

                                                                         Carla

          3. Stillsewing | | #16

            That's a good idea. Thanks, I'll watch out for it. In fact there is a sewing/craft magazine locally here and I'll try a small ad in it first. I have looked out to see would it be on sale but never thought of actively looking for it. I think one reason for that, is that I have an Apple computer and nearly all these things are aimed at PC users. I must say I always thought that would love to make something say a jacket or a blouse with embroidered colour and cuffs. Just and idea!

          4. mybostonterriers | | #17

            That sounds like a great idea! That would be a small easy embroidery to do! Let me know if you find what ou are looking for and how the embroidery turns out.

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