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Thread: Yet another Bernina question

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  1. 02-03-2015, 02:14 PM #1
    Rubesgirl
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    Question Yet another Bernina question

    I have a 1990 Bernina 1130 that I love. I took it in for maintenance servicing and was told that while there is nothing specific wrong with it, there is normal wear and tear over 25 years but that it will probably still last a while longer. Good service, great tech, very honest with me. I have a dilemma, though. I was shown a new 550 QE and thought it looked nice. Price was reasonable (I guess, since I can't find a retail price online), a brand new machine, warranty, etc. I know how to sew really well, but I am not a computer tech. I do not FMQ, I quilt by check. I do not really understand the new machines. Do I really need 22 basic stitches and 155 decorative ones to make quilt tops and wall hangings? Does anyone have this machine who can give me their experienced opinion of it? My DH said to get it if I want it, but will it be more than I will ever really make full use of? I'd really appreaciate any help you can give me; I would hate to make such a costly mistake. Thanks so much.
    Wendy in VA

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  2. 02-03-2015, 02:24 PM #2
    Lori S
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    My Mom had purchased a high end machine. All she really needed was a great simple machine. All of the computer functions really got in the way of her enjoyment. Don't buy more than you need or can see you self utilizing, all those extra's rarely pay for themselves. Save your money till you are sure what you need and want.
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  3. 02-03-2015, 02:29 PM #3
    QuiltnNan
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    There are so many choices of machines out there. Try to find one that best matches your needs.
    Nancy in western NY
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  4. 02-03-2015, 03:01 PM #4
    quiltstringz
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    I agree with the get what you will use. Personally if you want another Bernina I would look at the 1008 which is the only non-computer machine they still make. It is probably pretty close to your 1130 and not positive but it may use the same style feet which would be a huge plus. I know none of the others do so that means you would have to buy new feet. Also hang onto your 1130 who knows how long it may last - could be another30 years!
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  5. 02-05-2015, 04:23 AM #5
    IraJane
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    Quote Originally Posted by quiltstringz View Post
    I agree with the get what you will use. Personally if you want another Bernina I would look at the 1008 which is the only non-computer machine they still make. It is probably pretty close to your 1130 and not positive but it may use the same style feet which would be a huge plus. I know none of the others do so that means you would have to buy new feet. Also hang onto your 1130 who knows how long it may last - could be another30 years!
    I have experience with both the 1008 and the 1130. I would not choose the 1008 as a similar machine. I am still using a 1260 and was able to purchase one on ebay that had not near as much use as mine, for a machine to take to class.

    If I were buying a new machine, it would still be a Bernina but I would choose a computer model
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  6. 02-03-2015, 03:02 PM #6
    sewmany
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    My moto on big purchases is "if in doubt, wait till you are sure". Is there an immediate reason for you to make a decision?
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  7. 02-05-2015, 06:36 AM #7
    angelarose
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    I agree: if you have doubt, wait.
    I purchased a refurbished Baby Lock, a great deal, some years back when I first started to sew. The machine was a dream, BUT more than I needed. It sat there...all the wonderful embroidery it could do wasn't being used. I eventually sold it to someone who cherishes it to this day and she uses all that machine has to offer. I then bought a very good basic machine. I've upgraded it since then and I'm v. comfortable with its level of features.
    Hello from Shenandoah Valley, VA. Quilting a few years. Love the process of creating the quilt top, but don't like making the sandwich of top, batting and backing as much. We have two Labrador Retrievers, a yellow and a chocolate. Blessings to all!
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  8. 02-03-2015, 03:29 PM #8
    Tartan
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    I have a Bernina 440 and I love it. The 550 will have a pretty buttonhole stitch for machine applique, needle up/down for satin stitching and FMQ, brighter lighting, adjustable needle position, knee lift etc. Only you can say if you would like those features but take the classes for your new machine so you can fully use it if you decide to buy.
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  9. 02-03-2015, 03:30 PM #9
    running1
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    I have the 750QE which is computerized... and while I'll never use all the bells and whistles, some of them are pretty nifty! What I love most, however, is probably the large throat space!! It's actually large enough to fold a quilt into it. There is a lot of good advice here, though... one more thing to consider. If your Bernina dealer is like mine, you'll ALWAYS have support when you need it! That means a lot...
    "... let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us."
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  10. 02-03-2015, 04:10 PM #10
    ube quilting
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    "Quilt by check"! That's funny!

    I have a Bernina 20 + years and have never used most of the bells and whistles on it, hundreds of stitches, embroidery and special feet. I thought and was sold the idea of maybe in the future I would want to try different stuff. Not! I over bought for my needs. I still love the machine and can't even begin to think about ever replacing her.

    Figure out what you truly need in a machine and make a written list.
    peace
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