Just a quick update. I have bought the accessory box (which was missing from my machine) for £22 from the Husqvarna dealer in Sheffield. I have also picked up a number of the missing feet on ebay for 0.99p each. In total this machine has cost me less than £100. I think I have done extremely well and have picked up a great machine for a good price. My parents are going to buy me a walking foot for the Viking for Christmas - what more does a girl need?
I have never used a Husqvarna machine before, although I know that they have a superb reputation and inspire great loyalty by those that use them. I have a Bernina, and really thought that I wouldn't feel as comfortable with another make of machine: how wrong could I be. I think that both makes have really interesting features to offer. The Viking is a beautiful machine to sew with, and can do all the fancy stuff (FMQ etc) brilliantly well and with ease. The Bernina is a beautifully balanced machine, with a superb stitch, flexible functions and easy to use. However, Bernie is extremely heavy, whereas Helga (sometimes known as Vera...) is much lighter and more portable.
I am really going to enjoy using both machines in the new year.
Last edited by bigbrownowl; 12-15-2011 at 01:56 AM.