Hello sisters! I need some qualified opinions on what my next machine should be. I have just started making quilts. I am ready to finish my 4th. I want to learn FMQing. My Bernina Bernette 680 is about to "buy the farm", and the ladies at the sewing center suggested I trade it in for the next level up ( Bernina Bernette 66). I don't want a fancy machine, just one I can trust to handle my quilting adventures. I can get apprx. $250.00 for my 680 to put towards the 66. Should I go with this, or is there a better brand/type of machine for me???? "Simple" is my middle name. Nothing complicated.

Honestly, I've not heard anything good about Bernettes and they not made by Bernina, but for Bernina. I would take that money and buy a different machine. Have you searched Craigs List or considered a different brand?

Well, that explains why I've never been very happy with this machine. Yes, I am considering a different brand, but I am after some ideas from "seasoned" quilters. Please remember: Nothing extravagant! :lol:

I recently purchased a singer from joanns (all brands shop inside) to take to classes and to friends to quilt. It cost $250.00 is a simple machine, user friendly, has blanket stitch which I use for appliqué sometimes, and came with many different feet. Ohhhh I just remembered they are selling a nice singer at Costco similar to the one I described but less money. Keep in mind when you make your decision that with quilting it's a lot of piecing, meaning alot of straight stitches. Good luck, let us know what you end up choosing.

Buy an old Singer 300, 400 or 500 series. You will hand it down to your kids. You cannot beat them, they sew beautifully, quietly, you can easily do your own maintenance and nothing in that price range can hold a candle to an older machine.

I have the Singer 301 and it's a perfect for piecing and machine quilting. It's not fussy about what type of thread I use either. I have the high speed Brother 1500 and I use it for piecing and machine quilting my bigger quilts. Some days I like to sew on one machine then the other. You can't go wrong with a real Bernina, no matter what model if you have a dealer close by. I would suggest looking at the high end Kenmores. They are really nice for not a fortune invested.

I would buy a Janome.

You gals are awesome! Thanks! Keep the recommendations coming, they are so helpful!

I would have answered but I'm not a "gal"

Ok, smartypants what's your opinion :-D ? I'm interested in both gender's opinions!