Machine question...
 

How often do you get a new machine? There isn't really anything wrong with my machine but I think I may want to upgrade it. I want something with more options I think. any recommendations?

What options do you want? What are your must-haves, and what’s your price range? The answers to these questions are where we can start with recommendations. What machine do you have now and do you like how it handles? .

I got my first machine in 1979, then updated it in 1980 with the first electronic version (was Viking's top of the line machine at the time). then I did not upgrade my machine for over 30 years.

just bought a Babylock Destiny, and hope I'll not feel the urge to upgrade for another 30 years.

When I bought the Viking in 1980, I paid $1,000 at a time I was making $1.90 an hour. based on where minimum wage is now, I think I've paid relatively less for the Babylock.

right now I have a computerized Kenmore...I know it is made by Janome but I've had it for about 10+ years now. I used the babylock Katherine last year at MSQC and was thinking I really liked it.

Based on the type of sewing I do - and my lack of the decorative gene - and lack of incentive/desire/funds to buy a $10,000-$20,000 machine, I probably am okay with the machines that I have.

I think there is a big difference between need and want. If one wants a new machine, and funding is not an issue, go for it.

I did acquire some "upgrades" to what I have recently - A Pfaff 1475 CD and a Bernina 930 Record - but those are basically middle- aged machines.

I have a Bernina that I love but I recently bought a Juki TL2010Q because I want to FMQ and the throat on my Bernina wasn't wide enough. The Juki is straight stitch only- perfect for FMQ, and my Bernina does everything else.
I also have vintage Singers that are fun to stitch on, especially my Featherweight. I just love that one for piecing.
So for me, I have every machine I want.

It's a very personal decision. You have to figure out what you want/need that you don't have and go from there. There are a lot of threads about machines on this board.
Prices are all over the place.

If you do upgrade don't get rid of your old machine too soon. Like you, I didn't have to upgrade and I hesitated getting a new machine because of costs. After I was able to use a new Babylock at a weekend sew along with Eleanor Burns I fell in love with the machine but again hesitated. About six months later I was able to get the same machine from the dealer that had run the sew along and was able to get a lower price than offered that weekend. I had to setup a payment plan and able to pay it off in a reasonable time.
I love the pivot stop on the needle feature and the automatic thread cutter especially. But I do have some features I still like about my older machine better(I actually like the decorative stitches better) and glad I still have it.

I have a 20+ year old Bernina as my "new" machine. It has all the fancy stitches I need plus the bells and whistles I want (without the ones I don't want). And 3 vintage machines. One of which I inherited. The other two my husband bought me as gifts so I guess I don't buy a new machine often. :D

I got my Bernina 440 about 10 years ago, and I hope it lasts the rest of my life. I do have a longarm, otherwise I would probably be lusting after a sewing machine with a bigger throat. In fact if I ever downsize my home, I would probably sell the longarm and maybe get a sit-down longarm. I do have a couple of backup sewing machines, as well as a few vintage machines, but the 440 has all the bells and whistles I want. I just wish I hadn't purchased the embroidery module for it, because I never use it.

The only "upgrade" I've done is to buy machines that do something my other machines don't do as well. So, for instance, I wanted some decorative stitches and the option to move the needle so I could be a bit more accurate in piecing--both are things that my 1981 mechanical Brother VX560 didn't do--I kept it as a backup machine and purchased (from Amazon) the Brother PC420 when it went on sale there in 2011. Then I found the Featherweight in a junk store and bought it to clean up and put on Ebay, but while cleaning it I decided I liked it, so....but that's the only one that was a just because purchase--and it's a lot more portable than any of my others, so that's sort of an upgrade. The next machine to show up was the used PQ1500s that I bought specifically for the increased throat space as I was getting tired of pushing large quilts through the 7" space on the two Brother machines and was up against a deadline to finish a number of pieces for a solo show I was scheduled to have in a local gallery. So that was an upgrade in a way. Then I was given the White. I bought the Kenmore off Ebay because it does a better/easier job than my other machines with a rattail binding technique that I like to use on some of my fiber arts projects. Then the original PC420 stopped feeding, and the repair was going to cost $300-- for $20 more I got a new one from Home Depot- and can use the original PC420 for FMQ when I want to do ZigZag FMQ or use the decorative stitches to FMQ since it does everything except feed.

For me, all these purchases made sense for a couple of reasons-- I like to work on multiple projects at once, so having multiple machines set up means I can move from one project to another without taking the time to change how a particular machine is set up. Each machine does something (that I need to do in my fiber art work) better than the others and because they are all inexpensive, they fit my budget. I'm very happy with my choices.

What I'm getting at is that everyone is different in what they need/want in a machine-- maybe making a checklist of what you would like to have that your current machine doesn't have would be a starting point to deciding about upgrading.

Rob

The new machine bug bites me like the new car bug bites my husband. I use my machines until I outgrow what they will do and then trade. Love that new machine smell......

2 yrs ago I got a Kenmore because my vintage Viking died. It has all the decorative stitches that I need, I am not much for decorative sewing anyway. Six yrs ago I like a used HQ longarm but I have backup sewing machines all vintage kenmore, Singer 221, Singer 301, and a Singer Treadle.

Depends on whether upgrading or getting a specialty. I don't upgrade often because I invested in a machine I could grow with. Specialty machines is a different story

I purchased my first Bernina this year and I don’t think I’ll be able to justify a new machine (other than a longarm) for the next 10 years. : )

I agree with those who say to make a list of options you want. Once you have that it will narrow your choices. Then consider what dealers you have nearby, since that is important for getting your machine serviced.

Since you asked, I don't plan on getting a new machine myself unless mine breaks, but the one I have has all the features (or nearly all the features) that I want. It would be fun to try new machines every few years or something, but I already overbuy fabric and don't want to start that with machines! :D

I get an additional machine about every 8-10 years. I'm reluctant to get rid of my older ones, because they each have features that are not identical. I can't imagine getting another one, because I do not want a computerized machine. Yes, they can do amazing things, but I keep seeing them as expensive machines that will become obsolete when the software changes a few times. I prefer workhorses that are not software dependent.

My first sewing machine was a Kenmore that I bought in 1972. That machine has sewn more stitches than our national debt, and has never been serviced! I still use it for really heavy-duty things. My next machine was purchased in 2002--it's a Kenmore (made by Janome). It has a free-arm, and has been a good machine. In 2011, I got a Janome 6600...it was love at first sight and we will surely be together until death do us part. It doesn't have a free-arm, but I have that on the older machine, so no problem. The 6600 has all the wonderful features I've ever wanted.

Up until about a year ago, I had the same machine for over 20 years. Now I have all the bells and whistles, but I still keep my old Kenmore set up for stitching a straight seam when I have my new machine set up for FMQ.

Watson

Me too. My "go to" machine is the Bernina 1260, which I was gifted about 4 yrs. ago by a friend of my Moms. My latest machine is a Tiara II mid-arm so that I can use FMQ to do my own quilts. My other machines range from 8-50 yrs. old. The only machine I upgraded was my Brother 4" embroidery machine to a Babylock 5" x 7", and I bought it used from a friend. I tend to keep mine until they die, just like cars. I get used to their features and know what each can do for me. It's like wearing your favorite pair of slippers LOL Some need and want all the latest upgrades and features and that's fine. Those things don't matter to me, but each person has to decide what is right for them.

I have a Kenmore 158 I bought in the early 70's and didn't upgrade it until 2006 when I bought a Brother EX600. The Kenmore is still my go to machine. It will sew through anything.

My first machine was a treadle then on to Sears, Wards and Singer. In 1970, I took the plunge and bought an Elna Super with every cam available. I loved that machine and used it for upholstery, dressmaking, and just about anything else conceivable. In 2000, everything changed. I had health issues that nearly claimed my life. I re-evaluated what might be a very short life span. I decided to buy a new machine. I selected a Janome 9500 and expanded my ideas about what a machine could and should do. In 2016, I bought a Juki 2010 for my quilting. Last January, I purchased the Janome 14000. My 9500 still works well, but I wanted even more as I am now retired and spend my days sewing. I have not regretted it. I shopped for a bargain and paid quite a lot less than the $10,000 MSRP. I feel good about the possibilities at my fingertips. I get up every day looking forward to going to my studio to create something special. I have outlived all medical expectations and I believe that staying busy and happy is part of that success. From that perspective, these machines may be the best investment I have ever made.

My 1st real machine was an Elna SU62. Had that one from 1977 to 2000 when I purchased my 1st embroidery machine, a Viking Designer1. Didn't think I needed 2 machines so sold the Elna. Bad move on my part. Tried to buy it back from the gal but no deal not even twice what she paid for it. Been kicking myself ever since for that move. Kept the D1 till just last year when I upgraded to their Epic model, traded in the D1. Also had a Babylock Ellegante for embroidery mostly but just sold that this past month as I'm now trying to downsize. I do have a little Brother sewing only machine though. If the machine does what I want it to do I don't see any reason to trade up or down.

My last new machine purchase was a 1973 Elna 62C. I have added some vintage machines since because the Elna is not a good quilter, but she does everything else too well to consider another machine. If I were younger, I might consider an embroidery machine, but I wouldn't get enough use out of one to justify the price and space at this time in my life.

I have glaucoma and am developing cataracts, so any machine I buy from now on will have an automatic needle threader. I love mine for that reason alone.

I have a featherweight, a 1958 Singer 401A which will do everything I will want it to--embroidery, etc, and a Viking from the 90's. That's all, folks, that I will need forever as health issues prohibit me sewing for long at a time. I have 7 quilt tops to finish this year. Wish me luck.

I got myself a Baby Lock Journey and it has absolutely everything I need.

We got a Singer in 1982 as a wedding present from my grandmother; it still works good as I've maintained it over the years but haven't used it much. Five or more years ago, I got a Singer Featherweight - love that little machine! A couple of years ago, I decided to take the plunge and get a brand new machine. I bought a Babylock Soprano and love it also. The thing I like about the Babylock is the automatic needle threader and thread cutter. Also, it has an attachment to make the arm longer for quilting. Each machine has it's own special advantages.

I only piece on my Featherweight or 301. Nicer stiches, perfect scant 1/4 inch and they last forever! I do have a $$$$ Janome that I use to quilt, walking foot, stretch fabrics and fancy stitches. I would have never spent that much if I had known about the vintage machines 4 years ago.

The only reason l would get a new machine is to get a bigger throat space, or a stitch option mine doesn't have.

the machine I'm sewing on now was born in 1939. Makes it 78 years old, no way to move up from perfect ;)

I have several vintage machines that sew a beautiful stitch. I have seen so many of my sewing friends buy the thousands of dollars new machines and never use 1/4 of the features. The maintenance is expensive and when the warranty runs out WAM, the cost is outrageous to fix it. One friend's Bernina 830 had a sensor go out a week after the warranty. It cost her over $500, in the shop for over six weeks waiting for the part. I'd rather buy an inexpensive machine, sew it death and then buy a new one about every two years. I oil and clean them and that's all. Even the cheaper machines have the features I want.

I started my quilting journey 2 years ago with a Babylock Symphony. Can't imagine anything more I need at this time on my learning curve. However, I've got my eye on HQ Sweet 16 for FMQ.

My upgrades are always to vintage singers. I have 6 featherweights, a 1904 66 treadle, a 1951 15-91 that is a workhorse, a couple of 99s and several others. I have some modern Janomes that I use for monogramming and for making buttonholes, but my alltime favorites are my olden girls, ranging from 1936 to 1953.

if you have the funds and see something you want - go for it :) I know I would ha ha.. but now I am working on my son's school so its not all about me.

my first machine was the Janome 6600 and I love it. I only bought a second machine to have something lighter to take with me places to sew

I bought a new 550 Bernina because the one I bought in 1999 Inspire 1530 Bernina was getting old and needed some work. West Des Moines Iowa shop sent it into Chicago, ILL., for repairs and now it is sewing again. Now the 550 needs to go into the shop, it buzzes when it is turned on so I am thinking I need another back up machine. One that has the side way stitch that was talked about on this site. After we catch up on our health issue bills and pay taxes on the new used car, I am going to be looking at used machines...new is not in our retirement budget. So this thread really interests me and I will be following the discussion. Everyone has a good point in what they say on this thread.

For the last few years, I've been using a Brother JX2517. Mechanical, not computerized. Is great for piecing, but doesn't have any fancy stitches. I liked the machine because there wasn't much to break or need servicing. It doesn't have any fancy stitches, and is a pain to quilt on. I came to this machine from an old White Home machine that I bought new back in 1980. That machine was great, but completely worn out. Never had a service call.

My daughters pooled their money and bought me 2 machines for Christmas. They got 2 Brothers. An SE625 Embroidery machine and a CS6000i quilting machine. I've spent the last 2 weeks just trying to get familiar with each machine.

I do know that the embroidery machine is a hint of wanting to put frills on the girls clothes, so they got it more for their benefit than mine! I have 2 daughters and 3 granddaughters, so I'll have lots of chances to learn both machines.

Chytayzie, how wonderful to receive two machines for Christmas. Sounds like a win-win situation for you and your daughters and grand-daughters.

Found out with internet research, DH had the bobbin rewind on with the 550 Bernina buzzing in protest. Turned it off, and the machine was fixed! Made both of us happy again. I have an Embroidery machine and Serger, all Bernina products because they seem like a good work ole horse. Happy sewing on your choice of sewing machines.

I would suggest the Eversewn Sparrow 30 for any new machine purchase. It's very reasonably priced, excellent quality, and has all the features of a high end machine.

When I was getting ready to retire in 2010 I decided to buy a new machine. Up until that point I had a 1950 Singer 15-91 that my mother received as a wedding present and a 1925 Damascus treadle machine that belonged to my great Aunt May. My LQS is also a Janome dealer and had a sale on the Janome 6600P and I love it. I had always wanted a FW and bought one off the Shopgoodwill.com. (I got such a good deal.) When i took it in to my local sewing machine repair guy he asked me if I was interested in an embroidery machine. No way - too expensive - but he made me a deal on the store demo model that I couldn't refuse. It's a Viking Topaz 25. Luckily he didn't tell me about all the extras I would need - because I probably would have walked away. But I have fallen in love with it. And have never regretted the decision. My DH was telling a friend about my purchase and when he said it was the best investment ever - not because of what I did with it but how happy it has made me for the past several years.