Quick, someone pinch me. My hubby just asked if I would like a new sewing machine. HUH??? Of course!!! I've been looking online for different models. Trying to stay around $1000. I need the blind stitch, 1/4" foot and walking foot. Not so much into making clothing, mainly just for stitching my blocks. I've looked at Pfaff, Bernina, Janome and Babylock. Thank You all in advance for any help or suggestions.


carol ô¿ô

I love my Pfaff and it has a built in walking foot so no extra expense on that side.

Pfaff, Pfaff, Pfaff -- they have the IDT built-in walking foot that I would not trade for ANYTHING. Seriously, I have three Pfaffs, the oldest about 20 years old, the newest about 6months old and they are great machines.

I have Bernina machines so I am just a little biased. Make sure there is a dealer near to where you are for any machine you purchase so you can get lessons on the machine and not have to go too far for service. Bernina has a 380 PE which is their patchwork edition. It comes with everything you want, but not come with a walking foot. You can find them on Ebay. I do not work for Bernina, really I don't but have loved their machines since I bought the 150QE which was the quilters edition about 10-12 years ago. I'm still using it. Bernina has an excellent website.

Good luck whichever machine you buy.

mltquilt

Someone on this board is selling one with alot of attachments. I just saw it earlier and can not find it.

I'm not certain, but I think the 350 is the PE for the new Bernina B Series. Dunno price. I'm also addicted to IDT, I have it on my Babylock Quest Plus, which I think you could get for $1000 now. Feel free to PM me if you have questions about it. There's also the very similar Janome 6600 which has Accufeed, another style of built-in walking foot, a 9" harp, auto-cut (which my BLQP doesn't have), but no free arm (which the BLQP does have, that's why I chose it). The Elna 7300 Quilting Queen is a near twin to the 6600. The new Pfaff Smarter C1100 Pro is also similar, with IDT, auto cut, low bobbin sensor. It's new and $1500 now, but might get cheaper with time. I'd say the Janome or Elna are worry free choices if the dealer is trustworthy. Older machines with solid reputations are another, less expensive choice, and you can always pay for whatever lessons you need. Happy hunting!

I have a Baby Lock and Bernina. The Babylock is my favorite of the two. But test driving and finding a dealer with good knowledge and people skills is key.

I just bought the Janome 6300 over the weekend, expect delivery tomorrow. It has everything you are looking for and more. I like the fact that it has a wide throat. It's right in your price range.

I love my Pfaff.

Tough question!! I love my Bernina. I wanted to tell you how happy I am for you! Not much advice- there are so many that are good :)