Bernina Prices?
 

Hi everyone! So I am looking for a new sewing machine!! I'm looking at Janome and Bernina right now and if price didn't matter, I'd totally go for a Bernina. But I have a sad budget of $300 - $400 and I won't be able to get a Bernina with that! :( Apparently Bernina doesn't list their prices online!, SO does anyone know how much each Bernina model costs? And if you own them, are you satisfied with it and think its worth the money? I'm also considering getting a used Bernina. Do you guys think a used Bernina would still be better than a new Janome? Thanks so much!
PS- I know many people tell me that the money will totally be worth it in the long run, but even though I plan to go into designing and using my sewing machine forever, my parents won't allow me to get a more expensive one. They keep saying I should just upgrade later! :shock: So I also have to convince them!! Help! Oh and also, this will be a birthday present for me!

Maybe go to a local Bernina dealer and test drive some used ones? Get a feel for how they sew and the prices???

I just bought a entry level Janome for my DGD for $89.00. Haven't really sewn on it yet but I understand from my dealer that Janome is a good entry level machine.

Also Brother makes some great machines in your price range.

I have a Janome, the gem from 12 yrs ago. Not too many hours on it.......I purchased it because it was light weight, however it has few bells and whistles. And now it is very noisy.................I also have a Bernina 230 and it is super. The stitches are even, has + features, I am lucky to have it. If you go to garage sales you seldom see a Viking, or a Bernina for sale..........ask yourself why.................they are keepers................that is why. I also have Vikings........I don't mean to brag...........one way to purchase one is with one of those 0% credit cards................also having a supportative dealer is most important. calla

I bought my Bernina on E-Bay about 6 years ago. I love this machine. Very well built. It would have cost me over $5,400 new and got it for $2,700. I have not looked on there in a long time but it might be worth your while to just check what the prices are on E-Bay.

I feel like I got the most for my money ($500 budget) by going with the brother pc420 prw model from amazon for $400. It has lots of features, works great for both quilting and garment sewing and is easy to use. It came with tons of feet and really is a lot of machine for the price. I have a young family and a limited budget. I don't need a top of the line machine to sew, and feel liked can upgrade when my budget allows it if needed. As a mom I don't have time to go to classes so use YouTube and forums to learn things anyways, so the dealer support didn't seem necessary for me at my price point.

Good luck!

I bought a used Bernina 1260 with all the accessories, one owner, hardly used for $450. I kept a watch for several years to find this machine at a good price and good condition. Most Bernina dealers do not have many used Berninas under $1000. Some other brand dealers may take one for trade and sell them cheaper to get them out of the shop. I would buy a new Janome at your price range.

I've bought 4 used Berninas and they were totally worth the money. I sold the first 2, upgrading each time. The 3rd one I still love, my 440QEE sewing/embroidery machine I paid $2500 for. I recently bought a 910 on craigslist for $300 to keep as a backup machine. It is the little sister of the 930 (one of the best Berninas ever made, and still very sought after) but the 910 is basic with no decorative stitches. It is however, very smooth and solid. However, with your budget, you might more variety in your stitches. I think a Janome is probably the best in an entry-level machine. I agree that you should probably wait and upgrade to one later - after you decide what features you really want and need - if you are going to make it your career.

Your budget is not sad. There is a machine out there somewhere that you will be sooo happy with. Does it have to be a Bernina? There are many great machines out there in your price range with cool features. You could get more for your money getting something else new with a longer life and a warranty. Good luck.

Your parents are being cautious. Stick to your budget and show them that you are very serious about sewing for a career, go to design school and maybe when you graduate they will be able to gift you with a Bernina. Trust me - most of us did not start out with even a used Bernina, we used whatever was handed down or we could afford and upgraded over a course of years to get to the point of being able to afford (without guilt) our dream machines, whether Bernina or another brand. Patience is one of the virtues you learn by sewing.

I agree with the brother idea, there are a lot of nice higher end brothers in your range
http://www.amazon.com/Brother-Limite...dp/B000XE3FGO/
This one gets good reviews and I hear sews through denim no problem

Quite honestly, for the price range you are stating, my recommendation is for a Brother machine. I have two models, one is an Innovis 2000 (my home machine with all the bells and whistles) the other is a Project Runway model (I forget the model #) This one was about $300.00. I got it from a machine shop so it has the back up of lessons and servicing. I have been very happy with both machines. The other, higher esteemed companies, may be a little bit better, but you pay so much for them. If you can afford it, great, if you can't, you can get almost as good a model from Brother. I have a Bernina 440 QE and never use it anymore since the Innovis does all it can and more.

I have been sewing professionally and for personal use for over 30 years now. What I have learned is while the sewing machine is a very important part of the designing/construction process, it is not the only thing needed. Other things are more so. Like your designing/sewing skills. I take mine very seriously. Plus I can, and have in the past, use all types of sewing machines when available. I use the domestic lock stitch sewing machine for home use. I prefer over the home one, and use whenever possible, the industrial lock stitch sewing machine. I also love using the overlock or serger sewing machine, both home and industrial versions.

But the sewing machines I prefer in either case is the simplest mechanical ones. With fewest stitches offered (generally only zig zag stitches)-more emphasis on stitch formation and proven durability/reliability rather than being "in" or overly coveted by others. My past and present sewing machines are the simple basic models of Kenmore, Janome, or the Juki industrial sewing machines.

Okay! Well today was an awesome day! While looking through a really messy and old sewing shop, I spotted a used Bernina Record 730 on top of a shelf! The dealer gave me $280 for it and I immediately took it. I hope it was a good deal! (I think it was) The Bernina was in pretty good shape and I also tested it and all of the stitches worked including the decorative ones! But when I got home, I wiped it down to get all the grime off and I think I messed with the dials because now the decorative stitches are only going straight. But this can be fixed by turning one of the dials but I just don't know which one!! I looked over the manual many times but can't find any hints. So does anyone own this model that can help me? Thanks!!

congrats on your machine! since you just bought it...why not just walk it back into the shop and ask for help. i'm willing to bet you get it!

can't help you at all though, i'm a viking girl myself (with a deep and abiding love for my 1916 singer treadle and my 1937 singer featherweight...)

Keep your eye out for a used machine...you may have to wait awhile, but you should be able to find one within your budget. I know someone that just got a used Bernina 1260 for $500.00.

Check ebay out. I bought my brand new Janome 3050 DC on ebay. It usually sells for 799.00 I got it for 400.00, shipped from the warehouse, no taxes and no shipping. I also have a Bernina, I think they are the best. They are expensive, but well worth it. A year before I knew I was going to retire, I bought mine. That was 3 1/2 years ago, and I am so glad I did. Best machine I ever had!!!

Yes, you got a great machine. I have my original Bernina Record 830 from the early 70s and it is wonderful. Click on this link for the Vintage Sewing Machine Shop and ask your question. Everyone on here owns vintage machines and several have the wonderful older Berninas, plus these people can guide you with all sorts of resources.

http://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage...43881-906.html

You know it working correctly when you purchased it, so you just need to learn how to fix it again. And, Congratulations. It was smart to buy used. Now you'll have $$ to get other things you will need in your sewing career. Bless you. :)

You can always upgrade to a Bernina. Start with something you can afford first. I don't know much about the different machines, but I believe in going to dealers and buying used machines. Think getting one that has lots of feet and all the extras. It is well worth it in the long run. You have lots of time to buy an expensive machine. I first used my mom's featherweight from when I was a teen until I was older. Then I started on a Viking which my daughter uses now. I used it for 14 years and it was the cheapest Viking they made at the time and I loved it. My daughter now loves it. I then went to a Viking Quilt Designer for 18 years before I bought a Bernina. So I had to go thru all the hoops to make it to a Bernina. And I loved all my machines along the way.

I have several Brothers and a Viking Sapphire. Love them all. No repairs on any of them so far.

Bernina is just to expensive for me and I dont understand why they cost so much.

Congratulations on your first Bernina.

mltquilt

I have the same machine ... Bernina Record 730 (have had it for 43 yrs.). You will love it. Do you have a manual with your machine??? If not, I can maybe copy/paste some pages from mine and send them to you. Happy Sewing :)

jody

Happy Sewing on your Bernina. If you have a good dealer in your area have your machine serviced regularly. Inwill last youna looooong time. Then when and if you want to do a trade in they will be familiar with you and your machine and hopefully you will get a good deal.

I have a Bernina 1020, bought exactly 20 years ago. I paid $1200 for mine. I cannot say a bad thing about it. I am faithful about having a tuneup every 1 to 1 1/2 years and have never had a problem. Every time I mention getting a newer machine, each and every mechanic who has worked on it says "don't ever get rid of it" or "there is no reason to upgrade unless I want more stitches." I guess this particular machine is one of the best made (before plastic parts). Its heavy but I don't usually take it out except on quilting retreats. Personally, I would look for a used Bernina on ebay. Good luck.

I would love to have a Bernina, however, it is out of my budget range so I continue to use a 37 year old White, also a Bernette Bernina, Brother embroidery, and an old Singer...each one does it's job and does it well. Maybe there will be a Bernina in my future but not for now. I'll be happy with what I have. If you show your parents this is what you want maybe by the time you graduate it could be in your future. Good Luck

It sounds like you bought a nice machine at a good price. I have to agree with a previous poster who impressed that stitch formation was a very important issue. I've been sewing for 50 years and own Pfaffs, Pfaff industrial machine, Singer's, Brother, Necchi made in Italy,Viking computer,White, sergers, and have owned many other brands because I enjoy collecting and restoring vintage machines. I'm retired and have sold all but a few.

I personally think Bernina is overrated and overpriced. Sorry to offend the Bernina owners. I owned a Bernina, I believe it was an 830. Yes, the stitches were nice, machine runs smooth, but for the price, you are paying for the Bernina name.

I have a Brother computerized machine that my husband bought me as a birthday gift. I highly recommend Brother machines. They make so many different models, so if you decided to buy one, you should determine which machine suits you best for the type of sewing you mostly do. Mine has the larger
LCD screen and the capability of sewing without a foot pedal...just push the button to sew. The cost was slightly over $200. Buy any machine where you can refund if you are not happy with it, and if returning it, do so within two weeks with your receipt.

Most important factor of any machine is keeping it lint free, oiling if needed, change your needles and learn to adjust thread tension correctly. The more that you know your machine and care for it, the more satisfied you will be with your sewing results.

Congratulations on your Bernina Record 730!!!

Sometimes you can get an approx. price if you search Bernina prices. Ebay is another option, but be very observant of seller's feedback score, and read the machine description carefully.

Look at Brother machines. They have a lot of machines in your price range. I am sewing right now on a Brother that originally retailed for about $200. I don't care that I don't have an embroidery module, thread cutter, or knee lifter. I care that I have various stitches, and that it sews wonderfully well. I also have an older Bernette. A nice little machine that I have had for years. They are made by Bernina...

i have a bernina and love it.. i bought it used from a quilt store they had let the schools use it for home economics so it was well used.. i dont have any feet with it just the regular foot i love it and have used it for 4 yrs and made lots of quilts... in fact one year for christmas i made 20 quilts all my family got one.. whew glad that is over..lol....

Be careful shopping for a Bernina. I have the Bernina Aurora 440 QEE. You don't need the embroidery (the second E) if you are just starting out. I love love love my Bernina and may never update it. I do have a cheap Janome that I use for taking to friendship groups, etc as I don't want to haul the heavy Bernina around all the time. I make alot of quilts, clothes and have been sewing for years. But anyway....Bernina has a cheap line called Bernette...DON'T buy it! It is not a Bernina! Where Bernina is made in Sweden Bernette is made in Japan or China or wherever. Just like Husqvarna Viking has a line called Husky. Don't buy that either. I would recommend a $200 Janome before I would recommend another maker in that price range. Also, stay away from Singer - not your grandma's Singer anymore, and Brother - just junk in the lesser price range.

As I've said in other threads I stared with a Bernina 160, traded up for a 180 (which is now my travel machine), bought a 440 on a 48 month no interest, traded it for a 820 because I wanted the large opening for quilting and the large bobbin. Found out hte hard way you had to baby the 820 so got rid of it and got a 550 which is my home macine and I am very happy with both my Berninas.

I have a Bernina 1230 that I bought used years ago. Never a problem and am still using it. I'm not ever sure what year it was made. Also have a Viking..........old one that I use as a spare. Have had an Elna, Babylock, Brother, and a Kenmore. Of these, the Kenmore was best. I don't even know if Sears makes a machine. I have to say that the Babylock was my worst mistake. My opinion.

Congratulations on your Bernina. I do think they are the best, however everyone has their own preferences. I have the Bernina 830 that was introduced in 2008. I love it. It was made in Steckborn, Switzerland. However I started sewing on a Kenmore straight stitch. Then I upgraded to a zigzag when they were introduced. My next machine was a Pfaff 7570, then a Pfaff 2170. I got my current Bernina for it's large throat & large embroidery field. I still have the Pfaff 2170 and I have lent the 7570 to my sister. Let us know how you like your machine.

I bought a used Bernina about 15 years ago. It cost quite a bit, but it has been well worth it. I bought it from a Bernina dealer so was able to finance it. It still runs perfectly and I have never had it serviced. I love my machine.

Personally I prefer Brother over Bernina. No experience with a Janome but hear great things about them. My advice is go to the different dealers & try out their used machines in all the brands-very good chance with your budget you'll get a much better used machine than a new machine in that price range. Many dealers will also give a 6 mo or 1 year warrenty with a used machine.
So many new machines come on the market with more bells & whistles so older very good machines get traded in for the newest machine, which could mean a good deal for you.

I have a Bernina 930, That I have had for almost 30 years no. I keep it clean and oiled often. I have not had any problems with it. I have never had to have it serviced. I purchased it new, and had to put it on lay-away at the time, because I had just finished getting my college degree, and I had just started back to work. At the time my children were small and I made almost all of their clothes. I would not trade my Bernina for any new machine. I love how it sews and even though it is heavy, I still take it to quilting guild, if I have started a quilt on it and not on one of my featherwights, as I prefer to use the same machine on any quilt I am working on.
I would recommend getting a Bernina if you possibly can, even perhaps a used one. I do not know anyhting about a Janome, so I guess I can't give an opinion about them. I would recommend trying both out before you purchase and make your decision from there. If you like the Bernina and the price is more than you can afford at this time, you might consider a layaway program if the dealer will permit it. Good luck with whatever you decide, and have lots of fun sewing.

I honestly cannot believe you can buy a sewing machine better than a Bernina. I admit they are costly, but in the long run they last forever. You need a local dealer that has a service department as the Bernina is made in Switzerland and requires their service people to be trained by one of their staff. I have not needed service on my machines, but do take them for yearly cleaning and servicing at my dealers. This cost $35.00. There are always used Bernina's for sale. Get with your local dealer and tell her your budget and see what she can find. Good luck on what you buy and I hope your dream of designing becomes a reality

Congrats on your Bernina. Did you not get an instruction manual with your machine? If not, Go to the BerninaUSA.com website and give them the needed information and you can download a manual. They are very good and can help you alot. I am surprised your dealer did not have the machine cleaned and serviced before they sold it to you. They should be able to provide any help you need. I have a wonderful dealer who so enjoys helping everyone. Happy sewing. I am not sure you have an older 730 or the newer 730 embroidery machine. I have friends who have both and would never part with them. I currently own a 180 artista, Aurora 440 (I use for piecing quilts), 640 and the new big 830. You can see I am a big fan.

Did you by chance move the level up on top of the machine?

Move it to the decorative stitches. If the lever is toward you it will do straight stitch.

too bad you were not in OK this weekend. Our Bernina closed their doors Sat and she still had a couple of machines priced to GO....one was an embroidery one though...