Originally Posted by
Raine54RN
I have a 1031 and I paid about $1300.00 but at the time I thought it was a lot! I will say I LOVE the machine and knock on work it has never failed me!
The reason the 1031 was expensive in the early 90's is that it's *special* due to the feed dogs that move in a rectangular rather than the elliptical pattern of 830 and 930's. The 1031 has a vastly improved buttonhole, too. I've owed (and sewed 'around the world') on both a 830 and 930, but the 1031 is The Best. I also have a 440, but for heirloom, lingerie and overall PRECISION, the 1031 is superior in its reliable, powerful simplicity and perfect stitches. Kite makers love the 1031 and it's much better than the newer 1008 version. The only thing missing on the 1031 is the basting stitch that the 1030 has. For gorgeous buttonholes on delicate fabrics like heirloom dresses, the 1031 is wonderful and *much* superior to a 930 buttonhole.
I bought my 1031 used for about $800 over a decade ago and I'll never get rid of it. Just DO NOT pick it up and carry it by the handle!!! There is a design 'issue' with the handle that will probably create a slight noise inside the machine if your carry it around by the handle. That irritating slight clanging does nothing to hurt the function of the machine, but just don't use the handle. YES, I forgot and had to pay *twice* to get it fixed. Otherwise, the 1031 has had ZERO issues all these years. I sew everything from heavy drapes to ballgowns on the 1031 and it's been *perfect* all these years.