MadQuilter

I didn't mention that the reason I did not get a machine at that time/place was that it ran rough like a tractor. :D ....but the salesmanship didn't help either. ggggg

Andie

Buy the best you can from local dealer where you can get lessons and service if needed, I used to sell them and service is always needed at sometoime and lessons very helpful if new to sewing and to get the most from the machine . Good Luck :)

wraez

Mine is a Janome6500, a bit less expensive than the Janome6600...but I love it cuz it has a larger throat area for stuffing that quilt in there to quilt, LOL, and needle up/down, auto thread cutter, auto threader, lots of decorative stitches and more.

JoanneS

I TOTALLY DISAGREE about the computerized machines - I have 3! Use a surge protector, and a power outage won't hurt you. Same as for your computer. And they are only expensive to repair if something happens to your computer board, which is virtually never. Servicing (the once a year thing you SHOULD have on any machine you use a lot) is only $20 more at my dealer for a computerized machine.

I have used computerized sewing machines since they first came out. My first was a Viking in about 1988. Now, I have 3 Pfaffs - all computerized. We have had power outages, and my machines have NEVER been damaged, because they're plugged into surge protectors. The plusses with computerized machines are fabulous.

My dealer sells Brothers, Vikings and Pfaffs. The quilters love Pfaffs because of the built-in 'walking foot.' They call it 'even feed' but it's the same as a walking foot without the hassle of putting it on and taking it off, and you can use the fancy stitches with it, which you can't do with a foot you have to put on and off. Makes machine quilting a dream.

I do agree with everyone who says TRY OUT EVERY MACHINE you are interested in. Take samples of the types of fabric and battings you use, and use them on the machines. Even if you don't have a local dealer, you will have to have your machine serviced occasionally. That makes the dealer important. Dealers stand behind their machines. You may not live close enough to take advantage of their classes, but when you buy the machine, they should take the time to teach you how to use it!

BellaBoo

Keep in mind that for quilting all you need is a great straight stitch. The rest is gravy.

parkinca

I have a Pfaff quilt expression 2046. It's great for quilting because of the integrated dual-feed that feeds the fabric evenly. It also has a switch to lower the feed-dogs for free-motion quilting (instead of having to install a plate). I agree with the other ladies that you should try the machines out at the store first and buy local so you can get service.

Tennessee Rose

I bought a Viking 300 and I would stay away from that one. If you want to do embroidery the attachments are too expensive. I haven't quilted with it yet. Also, I purchased the machine at JoAnn's and they no longer have Viking or the representives.

Tennessee Rose

Mousie

So much good info, said there was no need for me to reply, but I will confess I didn't real all the way to end.
My priority list:
Machine first. Do not buy a machine without test driving it. Take your own scraps, different types, threads, and scissors. your dealer may not supply these, but you don't want to be handed all cottons. you want to know what it would do on all sorts of things.
Dealer, right behind, machine. Is he close enough? Do you feel comfortable enough with him, and is he good? Did he answer your questions, knowledgeable about your machine? (if not, why would you want him to work on it? Janome dealers get certified...don't know bout others)
Pay attention to height of presser foot...will it accomodate several layers? Take some denim fabric with you and put at least two pieces together, and see how easy it is to maneuver under there.
My number one all time feature, I have to have now...speed regulation.If I can't control speed, then I can't control quality of my work.
Probably more, but most important to me, once I get my machines home? Heavy duty, surge protection.
not a little strip with cord...no, an industrial box with usually 8 outlets, made for offices.
We have lots of power surges, and have lost a computer, mother board, due to this. You may have them rarely, but one, can take away your new baby. It's worth the $50.00 to have that protection, I also unplug my machines after using, now.
Insist on using it, on your own fabrics, and just suggest that they go back to what they were doing, don't mind me, I'll holler if I have a question...so you can relax. I usually spend at least an hour trying a machine. I use the instr. book, and try out different features.
If you get the bum's rush, and lots of fast talk, say I'll have to think about it, or even say, I will talk with my husband,...then even if you want a machine like that, think hard, about using that dealer.
Don't be coaxed into an impulse buy. It's too important. There are a lot of impressive machines and features out there, and you want a good fit. :D

gayle b

Elna and janome are almost the same, owned by the same company so wherever there is a dealer near you is a good bet. You will want somthing with quilting as the focus. Needle down, auto threading, scissors built in, and the ability to put the feed dogs down. You can always buy extra feet for whatever machine you end up with. It is fun to shop, take your time, it is an important decision. I have Elna's quilters dream pro and I am happy with it, although I wish I had a Bernina with stitch regulator, I couldn't affor it. Good luck with you search

Mousie

Yes! I said, "What?" then thought, maybe she's joking? Then, like Feathers, figured, well, what do I know...but was thinking, I wouldn't buy a steak at a sub shop, so not buying a sewing machine from Betty Crocker, lol. I have done this too!!!