jillmc

I am having a difficult time finding any info on the web re: the machines that have capability to add the BSR. I want the "most basic" Bernina-I don't need the embroidery module/software. I hope to visit the dealer in town soon, and I would love to have some info before I go. I know they will try to dazzle me with the biggest and bestest machine.....thank you!

lfstamper

I have a Bernina 730 that has a BSR however, I have been using Leah Day's free motion method and find it works better for me than the BSR. I think you should try it out at the shop to see how you like it. Also, try Leah's method with the glide sheet. You can get different specs on Bernina machines at http://www.berninausa.com/product_overview-n2-sUS.html. Good luck - you will love which ever one you get.

Holice

BSR is only on the higher end machines. Some like the stitch regulator and others dont so do as the above post says. Check it out first before investing many $$ in it. One can become a good FMQ without it. I like being in control of the stitches not at the mercy of high tech

Arleners

I bought a Bernina 440 QE specifically because of the BSR. I thought it was the best thing. However, in reality, I found the BSR to be a waste of time. It was more trouble than it was worth and I personally would not bother with it ever again. I never use it anymore and barely used it.

gramma nancy

I wanted the same thing when my DH wanted to give me a Bernina (yeah -- really happened.) Anyway, we went to G Street Fabrics in the DC area, a company that sells LOTS of Berninas, so I was inclined to believe what they told me. They said the lowest priced one that would accept the BSR was the 440QE. It does take an embroidery module, but you buy it (or not) separately.

This being said, we're still talking about a $4,000 or so sewing machine (incl the BSR and walking foot, but without the embroidery option.) Just want you to be ready for the sticker shock. Maybe they have a good sale or a demo you can buy. But you can't go wrong with a Bernina.

Good luck in your shopping!

Grandma58

Stick to your guns and buy the most basic thing you want.
As for the BSR, they are spendy and pointless. Last time i heard about $900. You can practice on a lot of very nice fabric for 900. Or crappy fabric?
Practice is what makes the quilting work, finding your own speed and flow.
SOme gadgets are wonderful, I love my rotary cutter and ruler and some of my feet, but not all of them.

dunster

I bought the 440QE with the BSR and I loved it. I never had a problem with it, and was able to start FMQ without any of the headaches that others complain about. It's just one less thing to learn, one less thing to worry about. Now I have a stitch regulator on the longarm, and once again I would not be able to *survive* without it.

Jackie Spencer

I have a Bernina with the BSR and I love it. Have never had any problems. I tried FMQing before I had it, and did not like doing it at all. So much easier with it and always looks so nice. I paid about 3000.00 for my machine New from a Bernina dealer.

CanoePam

I am another 440 owner who specifically bought the machine because of the BSR. The 400 series has been replaced by the 500 series, and you might get a good deal on a 440 these days. You also might find a pre-owned one from someone who has updated to a 820 or 830. I tried FMQ on my old Bernina 1031 and I just wasn't successful. I found the BSR got my over a huge learning curve. However I did eventually "outgrow" it. Now I just use the 440 for it's regular sewing abilities, something it is very good at, and I do not regret the purchase at all. I do my FMQ on a sitdown mid-arm (a Handiquilter Sweet 16). However I never would have bought the S16 if it hadn't been for the confidence the BSR gave me. Berninas are wonderful, reliable machines with great stitches. I have a personal preference for the 5.5mm stitch width machines (like the 440). The 9mm machines have lovely decorative stitches but I don't think the straight stitch is as good. You also need a straight stitch plate to do piecing easily (IMHO) since the "hole" is so wide on the regular zigzag plate. However YMMV.

Pam

Tartan

I think the 440 was the lowest priced Bernina available with the BSR? It has the embroidery capacity built into it too. They found that a lot of people bought the 440 with BSR but not the embroidery That was a lots of capacity being wasted and they are replacing the 440 with the 550? It has the BSR but not embroidery. I paid about $3000 last year for a 440. As others have mentioned the price should be coming down since they are being discontinued. The 550 with BSR may be less expensive because it doesn't embroider? You will have to decide what the BSR is worth to you.