Shaggy, Instead of a store gift certificate, you might want to consider giving her a homemade gift certificate that says "Can be redeemed for 1 new sewing machine of your choice"; then she can shop around and get the brand of machine she wants. A gift certificate from a store might restrict her to a specific brand. I have Janome and Bernina machines. I love them both, but if I had to pick only one it would definitely be the Bernina. Hope this helps. Please be sure and let us know what you decide.

Hi Minda,
Can I ask why you'd pick the Brenina? I currently have a Brother basic model and want to buy a new machine. I am trying to choose between the Bernina 440WQE and the Husqvarna Sapphire 850 (or 870?). I feel I'm only going to make a big purchase like this once in my life and I want to get it right.
I'd appreciate any advice.
Thanks,
Imelda

Hi Imelda,
The Bernina has metal gears, which means it will last longer and take much more 'wear and tear' than machines with some plastic. The walking foot on my Bernina works much more smoothly and makes a nicer seam than my Janome. Overall, I just think the Bernina sews nicer than other machines I've used. I think it's best to go and try out the machines you are thinking about buying. I sewed on all of my machines for quite a while and asked lots of questions before I bought them. Hope this helps you, but remember it all comes down to personal preference. Good luck shopping. :-) :-)

Thanks for the advice. I tried out both machines, liked both but I think I prefer the Bernina. The only thing putting me off it is that I've heard some negative feedback about the Bernina dealer here (there's only one in Ireland) and I don't want any hassle with him in the future should there be a problem. Decisions, decisions....
Imelda

Hi Imelda,
Maybe you should ask around and try to find out what the problems are with the dealer. The people who sell Berninas in my area are angels. They are very helpful and supportive any time I have questions. As Virginia already mentioned, it's important to have good after-purchase support from your sewing machine dealer.

Thanks Minda and Loretta for the advice.
Well I'm now the proud owner of a Husqvarna Viking Sappire 870. I asked a few people about Mr Bernina and got such negative feedback that I decided to avoid him at all costs. I'm delighted with my new machine, I just have to get a walking foot for it now- the dealer thought I might not need one but I've a couple of puckers on a tree skirt I'm quilting so I'll just go and get one.
Thanks again,
Imelda

Good luck and please..........don't forget to come back and tell us all about it!!!! :lol: