Kinzi

I have been sewing on a Bernina 931 which I bought new in 1986. I have made clothes all sorts of crafts and now have gotten into quilting. I am looking at a Bernina 770QE and a Janome 6700P. I LOVE my Bernina and will never get rid of it. I have researched everything about the two machines. I have no intention on purchasing a machine that does embroidery as I have no interest in it. I am going to “test drive” the Bernina’s tomorrow and then on Friday will “test drive” the Janome’s. I’m sure I will look at other models by both companies. My question is has anyone been fortunate to be in the same dilemma with regards to which machine to go with? I have searched all the pro’s and con’s and all say “if you can afford to” buy the Bernina! In 1986 I saved and saved to purchase my $1000 sewing machine. Fortunately I am in a financial position to be able to afford the Bernina but that doesn’t mean it’s the machine for me. Your thoughts.........

Barb in Louisiana

Welcome from South Louisiana. I don't have either of the machines so have no advice for you. Some of the newer machines have an even feed foot that seems to be very helpful with piecing. I was considering a Pfaff for awhile, just because of that function, but then I realized I did not want to learn a new machine so stuck to the ones I already had.

I almost bought a Janome a few years ago and neither the saleslady or I could figure out how to work the almost automatic threading device. I ended up with a Brother because it would thread the needle itself. As I have gotten older, I have appreciated that function more and more.

The good thing about the Bernina is that the feet and bobbins you already have will probably be interchangeable. I would check that out.

Kinzi

Unfortunately I don’t believe my Bernina feet will fit the new machines. I purchased a walking foot about 4 years ago and it was pricey $200. All the computerized machines make me a bit nervous but since retirement, 2 years ago, I added an addition to my home and it is my sewing room. After 24 years with my machine I’m excited to explore to see what is available. Thank you for your reply from Southeast Florida!

Tartan

Make a list of your must haves, see how each machine does the tasks on your list. Also see which shop has the best support if you have problems.

bearisgray

See what you might get "in addition to" what you already have.

And do you think it you might use the "extras"?

mimisue

In 2000 I took a second job to buy a new machine. I spent $1000 on a Janome. That darn machine was a lemon and was in for repair more than being at my house. On the last repair, I traded it in on a Pfaff. That was the best decision I ever made. What a workhorse and I still do all my quilting on it. I love the heavyweight of the machine, reminds me of my 1973 Singer. It does have the dual feed which I always use except when machine applique. Just my 2 cents worth!

cashs_mom

I would try them both out. I'm very pro-Bernina so it wouldn't even be a decision for me. My 25 year old Artista 180 is still my go to machine when I have to do anything tricky.

Go and try them both out and see which one "feels" the best.

Kinzi

Thank you. I have done that and even taken measurements of my machine to see what increase in work space I can get. And you are so correct about the support from the shop. The Janome dealer I know very well. Bernina folks can be a bit, well you know lol, so I’m hoping they aren’t to pushy.

Kinzi

Thank you. I KNOW my Bernina and it has been a work horse. I’m a bit nervous about the Janome although some people love them. The same gentleman that services the Bernina’s services the Janome’s a the other shop. I would LOVE to pick his brain but I don’t believe either shop will give me his contact. I have a feeling he will tell me to go with Bernina because he also worked for them.

Kinzi

I am also a pro-Bernina but am trying to keep an open mind. The “feel” of the machine will definitely be the deciding factor.