fixing to buy new sewing machine
 

Hello, I am new here, so don't know if I am going about this the right way. I have been looking and trying out different machines. Have not yet tried the Jannome 7700, but will. I have tried the Pfaff Expression and the Viking Sapphire. Will not be trying for an embroidery machine at this point. Would you all give me some opinions on these machine? I have done very little quilting, but am wanting to try again. Any information would be appreciated. Thanks

I have a Janome 7700 and LOVE everything about it! It came with a nice variety of presser feet and they're very easy to change. It seems to like any thread I use (my current favorite is Superior So Fine but also use Mettler and Coats & Clark). The lighting is wonderful. It uses common Brother bobbins, found at WalMart. I haven't needed to buy any extra attachments but from what I've heard, they're quite affordable (especially compared to some of the other brands).

Before deciding upon this machine, I did lots and lots of research. This was one of the highest rated, for dependability and ease of use. I would recommend it, to anyone! Love it, love it, love it!!!

you don't need to spend a lot on a machine, I would look at a Brother (about $300) and be sure you want to quilt. You can alwaqys use this for classes if you decide you want to buy a "better" machine,. I have both and they both do a great stitch for quilting

I have an older Viking (Platinum) and love it. My friend has the Sapphire and she's equally pleased. Make yourself a list of 'needs' and 'wants'. Figure out the machines that have those features that are in your price range. Start test driving and find the best fit for YOU. And when you test, make sure you take samples of fabric that YOU have purchased. If you think you might be machine quilting or doing rag quilts, take some samples of those type pieces and use the machines on YOUR fabrics/samples. Don't rely on the shops tiny pieces of fabric - they all sew great on those!

You might want to define what 'quilting' means to you.

A 'regular' sewing machine that works well for garment sewing will work well for sewing pieces of fabric together.

I agree test as many as you can in the way you will be using them.I prefer Vikings but not every one does.

Hello, and welcome to QB! All great suggestions above! I have a Brother PC-420, it is an awesome machine! I also have a Brother PQ-1500..it is straight stitch only, has a 9" harp (throat space)..I love both machines for different reasons...I paid under $600.00 for the 1500...about $420.00 for the 420...I was a hand quilter for the small quilting/applique I had done until about 3 years ago when I really got interested in quilting...I started out with a Singer machine I had around the house for sewing clothes/household things...then I upgraded to the 420..finally got the 1500, too...since I use them for different purposes...I do have to say I don't think you have to spend a ton of $$ either to get a great machine...it is a matter of preference and what you are comfortable with...
Good luck to you!
Kif

Try the new Dreamweaver, I'm telling you that you will be amazed. I used to think I wanted a built in walking foot, but I tried the dual fit foot on the dreamweaver and was sold, no built in walking foot for me. Plus brothers are already beautiful piecers.

I tried a Janome 7700 at a dealership and thought it was a nice machine. Leah Day gives a thorough review of it on her blog at http://freemotionquilting.blogspot.c...izon-7700.html

hi-
i have the viking tribute 140c, which is a red sapphire 855. bought it in July and LOVE IT! but....each person has different needs and wants. i would test drive as many as i could. enjoy the process--take fabric you'll sew with. it's frustrating to go into a dealership and they cut a heavily starched piece off a roll...every stitch looks good that way <g>. good luck...let us know what you get!