New to this site. I'm having issues with my sewing machine
 

I first traded in my reliable, but older Janome for a Viking sapphire 835 almost 2 years ago. I had so much trouble with it that I took it back and got a replacement, same model, but not without a major hassle. This one is OK but I still have issues. I'm about ready to pack it up and trade it in for a new Janome. Can anyone give me any advice? Should I do this or just keep what I have?

What issues are you having with the Sapphire? I just bought a 960Q, could you trade up to a different model? I know they will only give you what you paid for the machine for one year but if your issues have been documented I would certainly give them a chance to fix it with a different model perhaps. I've never had any trouble with my Vikings and I own 4 of them. I do remember from my days of selling them that the 835 did have some issues.

Try to get the problems fixed before you return it. I have had issues with my sewing machine and called and took it back and they fixed all my problems. It seems the newer machines can have problems from time to time. But usually they can be fixed and run smoothly and perfectly fine. Try it first, then if they can't fix it, talk about a different model. But give them a chance!

i look at newer sewing machines sometimes. i sew on a janome L352. it's a basic warhorse machine but when i was in the shop the other day, i saw one listed for $250. pretty good for a bottom of the line 25 year old machine! other people must be having the same love affair with it that i am.

we would need more detailed descriptions of your problems to really help. sometimes though it really is the machine that's not working properly. does the shop you bought it at offer lessons? maybe an hour or two with a list of problems you're having, accompanied by a good tech teacher would really be worth the $40?

aileen

What are the specific issues you are having? Someone may be able to help you with them as this is a popular model. Also, have you taken all the classes on the machine that your dealer offered?

Viking dealers are very good at giving 'owners' free classes to learn all the bell's & whistles- how to use their machines- they want happy customers- if you have not taken advantage of these you should call & set up a time to go with your machine- let them know what the problems are you are having and learn how to remedy them- Vikings have been around for a long, long time and they do have good customer service. if the problems are the machine and not (operator error) they will fix that too. :) before deciding to just move on to something else I would try to figure out what is happening and fix that. I love my Viking- I did have to drive 160 miles round trip 4 times to take the offered classes and learn how to use my machine but I feel it was time and money very well spent. I have done a lot of sewing with that machine over the past 10 years.

I have two good machines that I use, Janome and an old Elna, would not trade either of them. I think they are made by the same company. They just don't give me any problems at all.