I have the Pfaff Passport and a Bernina (not a Bernette). I love them both. I love the 1/4" presser foot on the Passport and it is great for piecing and it is lightweight to take to classes. I love the knee lift, large harp, and the large bobbin on my Bernina. It is so important to clean the lint out of the bobbin area at least with every bobbin change. The one thing I do not like with the Passport is that you have to undo screws to get to the bobbin area. The Bernina is so easy - no screws. Both do beautiful stitches. I agree with others that the Bernette is not the same quality as the Berninas. I would get the Passport, if you never plan on doing FRee motion quilting (FMQ), or a used Bernina that you can afford. Also, have you thought of using a stabilizer behind the silks? Good luck and welcome to the board. You will learn so much here.