happinessbears

Well, Im a newbie to the quilting board so please be lenient with me! So, I am in the market for a new sewing machine! What I've had before are two horrible singer machines, one which i could return, the other which i could not (stupid thing!). This time, I actually did some research and have found out more about other sewing machine brands. I'm currently looking at Bernina, Janome, and Juki sewing machines (I've decided to relieve myself of singer once and for all). I know they are all very awesome and reliable brands, but price REALLY matters here! I'm getting this as a birthday present from my grandparents (they pay half) and i pay the rest. So tell me first, which brand is better? And is the Bernina really worth it? even if I get a bernina, it'll be either one of the bernettes (which aren't even made by them) or a used bernina..... So yea... And also, I sew ALOT and make my own clothes and stuff and I want a very reliable sewing machine, something I could put my life on lol. I personally want a bernina I guess, but my parents will say no (I'm sure of it) even if it will pay off in the long run. My grandma also owns an $800 janome which she swears by... Did I mention that the price range that my grandparents put down originally was $300 - $400?

Prism99

Do *NOT* get a Bernette; you will be very disappointed.

You may be able to find an older model Bernina in your price range, and that could be a great purchase. Do you have sewing machine dealerships in your area? If so, find out what used machines they have on hand. Older Vikings and Pfaffs are also very good machines.

If you are not planning on quilting with the machine, a new Janome Jem can be a very nice machine in your price range. I do think the harp size is small for machine quilting, though. Check Amazon to get an idea of features and pricing, and also for user reviews.

Dolphyngyrl

Get the juki F600 i hear awesome things. Berninas can be really pricey as well as the feet and accessories and you can get more for your money with another brand and be just as happy. There are also some good janomes, but me personally I would go for juki over janome. I would test drive different brands. There are so many others out there other than juki and janome and you might like those better as well. I would choose something just cause your family member likes it especially something you will invest in as it will be a higher end machine. Do your research you will be much happier in the end

azwendyg

I'd recommend a Janome also. I have a mid-range Bernina and, after having for a few years, do not think it is worth the extra money. My daughter got a Janome a year ago and LOVES it! She's an experienced seamstress and I value her opinion on this.

tngal22

First you need to see if there is a place to get it serviced if need be. Second, check to see if they have any good used machines. I got a Janome DC2011 used at my dealer for $225, all accessories and manual included.

Also, think about what stitches you really want. Don't go with a big fancy machine with 100+ stitches if you won't use half of them. My machine has 50 and I maybe use 10 right now.

You seem to have research so I am sure you will make the right decision for you.

psquared52

Definitely recommend a Janome!!

lfstamper

A good used Bernina will last you forever. Check with a local dealer. I have three of their machines after owning a Kenmore forever. Will never buy anything but a Bernina. Good luck!

Handcraftsbyjen

I recommend Bernina.

happinessbears

Thanks for everyones responses! I'm really leaning towards the janome machines although the berninas are good. I think its more in my price range.. Now, does anyone have any preferences on which janome sewing machine to get? Im not sure, but I'm thinking a computerized one would be really nice

Candace

I have both a Janome and a Bernina. In your price range, you should aim towards the Janome. Later in life and when you've saved more pennies, you can go for the Bernina.

Look into a Janome Jem (Gem?) Those are good, beginning machines and will be easier for you to afford. Good luck.