Thread: New machine debate...help!!

Or you can look at the Brother/Babylocks. Very easy to learn and operate - if you are going to be a once in a while embroiderer that is important. The Brother/Babylocks should be having some good sales since they just came out with their latest and greatest.
I agree about the frustration of sewing on a machine that isn't fun or reliable. Get the best you can for your money.

Originally Posted by Bkb06

Thanks guys for all the input! I have the opportunity to buy a bernina 630 for 1500. It has about a 100 hours on it and has embroidery software with it. The lady that has it for sale is in a financial bind so she is trying to offload it fast. Do you guys think this is a good deal?

I'd still make sure the software is up to date and if the bernina uses cards, usb, etc. I'm not familiar with Bernina's but no matter what the machine, the older they get and the older the software its not easy to get the software working with the newer operating systems. I'd even call a dealer and ask thier opinion, you can tell them you wanted their opinion because if it needed service you would want to take it to them. Some shops will only service the newer ones because its too hard to find the parts. Just check it out and go on ebay and see what the going price up there is. I've seen some emb machines with small hoops for alot less than that.

Bernina DOES support their current and past models. The shop should have no problem supporting the Chicago 7, which they sell to you. That said, I'd rather have the 440 for all types of sewing including quilting. It does require being connected to a computer for embroidery, which is a hassle for some. The Artista 630 can embroider with designs from a USB stick. I have both actually, bought used. They are both solid, wonderful sewing machines. The 630 has some niceties I've come to prefer: the larger, color screen, the smooth-action knobs to adjust stitch length and width, and the security setting, to disable zig-zag stitches when the straight stitch plate is on.

The newer models have improved lighting, but there's currently no 5.5mm stitch width model which does embroidery. IMO, the 630 is the ultimate Bernina, with the most features they ever put on a 5.5mm/CB hook machine. I love it, and wouldn't trade it for any new model.

DISCLAIMER: I don't do machine embroidery. Best of luck in your shopping.

Oh, CONGRATS! Isn't the 630 fabulous?

Bernettes are manufactured in Hong Kong according to Bernina spec for this machine. Berninas are made in Switzerland at the Bernina manufacturing plant.