Hattie Shorts

I have an opportunity to purchase an Artista 200 from a woman who just moved into our retirement center...it has everything...cabinet, feet, embroidery attachments, etc. I know nothing about embroidery but would love an opportunity to do it....I have a 1230 Bernina, Jane, Janome Horizon...but no extra money, now that we live in this life care place....I have no idea what is a fair price for me and for her...I would appreciate your imput...she even has the serger which I don't need...thank you for reading this and considering my question. Hattie

Skyangel

Hi Hattie, the Artista 200 was the TOL (Top of the Line) Bernina until they introduced the 730. At that time, Artista 200s could be upgraded to a 730 and now have the BSR for free motion and a USB slot for transferring embroidery designs. If it has that upgrade it would be worth a higher price. That said, I have seen such upgraded models in the $2200 - $2800 range. Without the update, probably $1800-$2200. A lot depends on what extras are included such as feet, embroidery supplies, ect. In your case the cabinet is definately an extra. Newer cabinets witn an air lift (Koala, Horn, ect.) are expensive new. You would also want to ask the serial number as that will tell you the age of the machine *first number =decade (1=70s, 2=80s 3=90s, 4=00s) *second number= year within decade. So for example, serial beginning 45xxxxxxx would be manufactured in 2005. Ask if it has been regularly and recently serviced.

It's difficult to give an estimate without knowing the exact machine. My friend has one one upgraded to 730 and she loves it. I have a 440 and love the quality of Bernina embroidery. Lots to consider!

Kim

lfstamper

I would agree $2000 range is appropriate for the 200 if upgraded and with all the accessories. Look on ebay for some and see if they have any. I usually see them out there. Check the #of hours or have the Bernina dealer check it out for you. I have a 200 and love it. You will too.

sewgray

Be sure to check what software she has and if it's compatible with your computers operating system. That can add a lot of money. If it's an older version it could cost several hundred to up grade.

Hattie Shorts

Oh thank you all for responding...it sounds so great to be able to try the embroidery...something I thought I didn't want to do since piecing and quilting have been the great interest in my life...but learning something new is good for the mind, I've heard....I'm 78 and maybe I shouldn't put it off any longer....just kidding....If I could sell my Janome Horizon which I recently bought, trading in a Pfaff Starter which made me crazy....then I would have a little more cash to offer....At any rate, you have been extremely helpful....I'm pleased I have acess to Quilting Board since most people where I live have given up on so much...Hattie

mltquilt

I sold my 200 upgraded to 730 when I upgraded to the new Bernina 830. I sold it for around $2500 w/suitcase system and all original items that came with the machine. It did have low hours on it. Bernina does have a free piece of software called "Artlink" that you can download from their site to send embroidery designs to your machine via computer. Also if it has been updated to work like a 730, you can download art designs to a USB stick and use that to transfer designs into your machine.

Good luck,

mltquilt

DubayQuilter

If I download Artlink, do I have to unzip the files? Or can I go directly to the USB memory stick that I Purchased from a Bernina store to the sewing machine? I have an Apple MacBook Air and an old Acer with Windows XP. We are having a lot of problems with unzipping the file so I can use the design from OSED. Or would it be better to just order a CD with the design?
Any help would be appreciated,
Nancy from Mosinee, Wi. DuBayQuilter
PS We hope to visit Texas in the winter. We went to Port Aransas last year and enjoyed getting out of the cold.