I suddenly took an interest in machine quilting recently. Haven't even finished my first quilt. Then last weekend my sewing machine broke. My wonderful husband insists I have a Bernina (although a used Bernina) this time. Does anyone have a recommendation as to what model. I am very confused. I had a Finesse (off shoot company of Singer) It basically sewed straight, zig zag and buttonholes. So anything would be a step up. The Bernina name impresses me. I have the opportunity to get a 1630 for approximately $300. We know the technician that works on them and he says it is in top condition. I am not a professional sewer/quilter by any means but will this be an adequate machine for a beginning quilter?

Bernina is a wonderful machine. I've had one for over 10 years w/o a problem. I have a 153QE but I know people with all different ones and they all feel the way I do.
Good luck with whatever you find!!

I've had my Bernina for close to 15 years. It was a huge amount to pay back when we only had one income and four kids, but I fell in love. Now, I could afford to buy almost any machine I want but haven't. I still love my Bernina just as much and think it was one of the best purchases of my life. Really.

That sounds like a really good price for a 1630 - they are going for $500 plus on eBay. The nice thing about Berninas is that there are a myriad of feet available for them - a little on the pricey side, but beautifully made. Many very experienced quilters prefer to sew with the older Berninas and it should give you years of good service.

The other nice thing about it is that if you ever feel the need to upgrade, to get more embroidery capability for instance, you will probably be able to get more for your machine than you paid for it.

LOve My Bernina, they r a great Machine...

Akrogirl I hadn't really given much thought to the value at trade in but that is a good point.

I, too, have a Virtuosa 153QE. It's rock solid and I love it. I got it for $800, used.

I looked at a Virtuoso 153QE in the store and liked it. They wanted $1299 for it though. There was one on ebay for $499 but it ended before I could make up my mind to bid or not. That will teach me.

I've had my Bernina for 25 years and still love it.

$300.00 for a 1630 is a great buy. It was made form 1993 to1998 If it was made prior to 1996 there was an update for it called the 1996 update, some sort of electronic update. This is really a good machine and again at a good price. Keep us posted!!
Berninas are really quality machines. We have two, a 730e and a B330. Just wonderful machines.