The 440 wasn't the easiest machine to embroider on but it did sew nice. I did trade mine in for the Bernina 630 which I liked better and that was my main piecing machine. I also had a Viking D1 which was top of the line when it came out. That one did embroidery using a floppy drive and also stitched like a charm even through those pleated drapes I made using pleating tape. So I think that was 6 layers of heavier fabric. It was a sad day when the screen went out after about 20 years I think. I do like keeping a simple, lighter machine around for taking to class or traveling and I have a simpler machine in my cabinet for at home piecing with more bells and whistle and I really like it. And I have another one for embroidery. Yep, need several machines. I do have a Singer 66 in good shape but it is heavy and in a cabinet and honestly, I don't use it. I miss the threader, needle up/down and the knee lifter too much.