Replies

1. 
   JeanEsther | Nov 18, 2003 07:33pm | #1

   I have a Viking, and each thread has its own tension dial. It came with a chart that shows you how to set the tension for different types of fabrics and results. I follow that with a test seam, but I hardly ever have to adjust anything more. It's very easy to set.

2. 
   lin327 | Nov 18, 2003 08:29pm | #2

   Hi!  I've had an evolve for over a year now and I love it.  The tensions for the different stitches are actually adjusted by the stitch selector on the side, and the cover/chain stitches have proper tension dials.   There's a little screw for fine adjustments that helps tighten the stitch loops if they seem a bit loose. I've never had any problem with the tension settings on my evolve, and I sew anything and everything on it. Have you checked the babylock website?  They have detailed descriptions of the machine and how it works.  Also, I would reccomend buying from a dealer who gives lessons on the use of the evolve.  It's not particulalrly complicated, but the learning curve is a bit steep.  And make sure you get all the manuals and workbooks to help facilitate learning the many features of this amazing machine.

   The only complaints I have are that it's LOUD!  All babylocks betray their origins as industrial machines by the noise they make.  And my other little peeve is that the standard foot is a bit on the big side.  But other than those two tiny complaints, I love my machine and wouldn't trade it for anything.

1. 
   mbeasley | Nov 18, 2003 09:39pm | #3

   Babylock's website state that the Evolve will do up to "58 Expressive" stitches.  Do you have to have extra feet to be able to use all the stitches in the machine?

1. 
   lin327 | Nov 19, 2003 06:22pm | #5

   The stitch combos are done with the basic presser foot, even the narrow seams and the tiny rolled hem.  And I don't have to change the throat plate either.  The optional feet I have are the piping foot, the beading foot and the elastic foot.  All are for specific purposes.  There are other feet and accessories, and most are for special processes, but so far I haven't needed them.  When I need them I'll probably buy them.

   I used to use a simple 3/4 thread serger, no width adjustment...no differential feed...nothing fancy.  My baby brother became rich and wanted to share his good fortune so he offered to buy me the dream machine of my choice. So I went to the sewing and needlework festival in Toronto and spent two days trying more sergers and sewing machines than I knew existed.  I decided on the Babylock because it seemed to do the most and seemed to be the least complicated to operate.  It affered the most versatility, doing everything from two thread flatlocking to the triple thread cover stitch and almost everything in between.  I probably tried Elna...but I don't remember! 

2. 
   mbeasley | Nov 18, 2003 10:04pm | #4

   Was the evolve your first serger?  Have you heard of any pros or cons on the Elna 945.  It is computerized.  You can purchase additional cards for the machine to add stitch settings.  It has auto set tensions, however, you can also override the settings.

   Thanks for your response.