Quiltingboard Forums - Janome 6600, Pfaff Quilt Expression, or Elna 540?

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Quote:

Originally Posted by IrishMom (Post 8035855)

So a month ago I posted about looking for a sewing machine and received great tips and advice in going out and looking for a machine. To recap -- I use my machine 95% of the time for quilting, I wanted a wider opening for quilting, an up/down needle, and if possible an extension table. From those comments I did have a reality check and upped what I would be willing to pay.

My local sewing shop which has such great people and free lessons has three different options for me. The one I am drooling over has more than I wanted on it, but it has such good reviews -- it is the Janome 6600. He is offering a used one to me for $899. It does have some blemishes on it by the plate.

The other used one he had was the Pfaff Quilter's Expression 2046 for $799. The reviews for this one have also been outstanding.

My third option doesn't have all that I want but it would be a good solid machine that I would be buying new. An Elna Expression 520 ($599) or the 540 ($799). It is now made by Janome but is a solid sewing machine instead of a quilting machine.

My main concern with the used machines are the computerized boards and their life span.

Yesterday was more of a walkthrough of what was available, he was working on one of them so next week I'll be able to test drive. Any additional help and advice would be appreciated. Thank You!

I own a Pfaff 2046 and absolutely love it for piecing. I have the quilting foot and I love the accuracy I get with this machine and the help of the IDT foot. It's a workhorse.

I recently bought a Janome 8900 to use for FMQ. I did not like the Pfaff for FMQ but I'm sure it could be used for that. The harp is smaller on the Pfaff and I wanted something a little larger. Like the Janome for the FMQ. The Janome is a bigger machine and not as easy to transport.

Hope you enjoy your new machine.

Another vote for Pfaff. I have the Expression 4.2 and love the large throat and IDT.

Another vote for the Janome 6600!! We've been together for 7 years--countless hours of quilting--and not one single problem. I've quilted queen- and king-sized quilts on it.

Such good information from Board Members. Such a huge decision. I have a Pfaff that I use once in a while. It is a work horse but could never get the FMQ right with it. The one other thing about the Pfaff that is different from most machines is its SLANTED FRONT. This feature did not make it fit the acrylic extension that I purchased. Not sure if they have changed this feature on the new machines. I now have a Brothers INNOV-is 2000. Love it! I also have a Brothers machine that I purchased in 1959 that still works.

I am a proud owner of a Janome 6600. My daughter is now sewing and using it more and more. When I heard they were discontinuing the 6600, I promptly began my search for a used 6600 for daughter. Almost every shop I called laughed at me! Nobody trades those in! I was told. I did find a good deal on a new one. Which will be MINE!

I found trying to learn FMQ a challenge with my 2044. (Could be an element of FMQ is not my favorite thing to do.)
I find straight line grids on small throws, baby quilts is the most I am willing to push through the small harp space.
Please note: I paid $400 in 2011 for my used Pfaff, manual, hard top cover, 5-6 feet, quilting bar and a buttonholer and a few spare items in the shelf/drawer thingy.