Question about a Bernina
 

I have a questions for all you wonderful ladies that have a Bernina sewing machine. I have a chance to purchase a Bernina 1120 from my brother-in-law. It was his mother-in-laws and she's been gone about 7-8 years now. The machine has seen setting in storage since then. He does not have the manual or any of the extra feet or tools that usually come with a sewing machine. It does sew. I currently have a Janome but have always wanted a Bernina. How much should I be willing to pay for this? I've seen one out on Ebay with everything this one is missing for around $400-$450. Any and all ideas/suggestions would be welcome. I do realize I will need to get it serviced immediately (if I purchase it) and that is usually over $100. Thanks

I wouldn't pay more then $100 if you don't know what condition it is in. So many non sewers think any older machine is vintage and worth a lot. Honestly I would save up and buy a used one from a dealer. If it was his mother in law's he probably doesn't have a sentimental interest in the machine, seems he would just give it to you.

I don't know if this will help you, but last year I bought an 1130 at a yard sale. It was her late mother's and had most of the feet, manual, and the case. The specialty stitches did not work (I tested the machine before I left there) so I was able to purchase for $150. Very nice machine. Bernina's are great machines (at least the ones I have used). I did have to have it serviced, but probably would have done that anyway just to get off to a good start.

To me, it is worth purchasing and having it serviced.

I don't know if this will help you, but last year I bought an 1130 at a yard sale. It was her late mother's and had most of the feet, manual, and the case. The specialty stitches did not work (I tested the machine before I left there) so I was able to purchase for $150. Very nice machine. Bernina's are great machines (at least the ones I have used). I did have to have it serviced, but probably would have done that anyway just to get off to a good start.



To me, it is worth purchasing and having it serviced.

I think you might end up spending more for feet than the machine is worth. Bernina's are super expensive for some reason.
tell him that, nicely, he might just fling it your way anyway. Otherwise I'd pass. Or he might decide to dig deeper and find the accessories.

Me I would pass because berninas accessories are too expensive IMHO, but that's just me. After I sewed on one I think their machines are overly hyped up to more than they are worth. I think most of them are overpriced. I wouldn't pay over 100 if it doesn't have feet as those will be an investment for you at their price plus the servicing

I have many vintage Berninas and they're wonderful machines. The feet are expensive because they're all metal and last a life time. I have Bernina feet that are 50 years old and still going strong. They're not plastic junk that's available now.

The 1120 is a coveted machine and Berninas retain their value over any other sewing manufacturer. I own 30 machines from many different makers and Berninas are the Rolls Royce of machines.

With that being said, your BIL should take it in to an authorized Bernina dealer and pay the $100 for servicing to make sure it's fully operational. Then you can consider an offer. If the board is out it could cost you upwards of $400 for repair, so it's important to know all the facts before you can make an educated decision.

I agree with every word she said!! I have had several machines over my life time from Kenmores to Riccars , Viking and Janome, and for the last several years my Bernina! Best machine i ever bought!!!!

I have a Bernina 1530 in the same line and it is still my favorite DSM. I have owned it since it was new in the box. I have collected the feet over the years. I ONLY use a walking foot and a 1/4" foot so it is NOT a big expense. They all came with a rectangle box that fit into the back of the machine. Tell him the concern you have about the condition of the machine. I myself would buy it as a back up. Make sure it is in good running shape and take a flashlight and look at the bobbin case. Bernina need to be service every 12 to 18 months.

The 1120 is a great machine! It takes the "old stlye" presser feet. The price on the presser feet average between $25 to $40 each, brand new. But you might find some used ones on ebay. We sold a used Bernina 1030 from the store for $425, but it had all of it's accessories. The 1120 is a better machine, but without any accessories, and it needing a service, I'd probably feel good about paying $400 for it.

Candace is right...The board is the most likely item to be bad. Especially if the machine was stored in a place without heat or air conditioning. The older Berninas will run forever. I have a 1030 and a 1031, my Mom has a 930 and I have requested that she wills it to me. You don't need a lot of the feet if you are a quilter....just the regular foot and a 1/4" foot, walking foot and one for FM. Maybe they can be found on Ebay.

THANK YOU all for you good comments/advise. My BIL is looking for the additional feet as well as the manual. Hopefully it can be found. Will let you all know what the 'final' verdict is when it is all said and done.

I wouldn't buy it. You could get a used machine with all the doodads instead.

I would pay 200 bucks sight unseen. Know you are going to throw in a 125-150 dollar tuneup. $350 for this machine is an amazing price. Now look. You are a quilter. 98% of the time your machine is straight stitching with a 1/4" seam. Does he have the foot pedal? That would take 100 bucks off the price if it is not there. Much more important than the presser feet. You only need a Number 1 Presser foot to make it work. It isn't hanging from the foot mount? Tell your BIL to look for a red carrying box made out of plastic. I bet most everything is in there. tim 830 Bernina in san jose

Bernies are great machines to sew with! I love my 1630 and would never give her up :) I bought mine used about 15 years ago and then about 8 years ago bought a used one for my DD as a graduation present - she loves it too :) This series of Berninas use the older style of foot (has two prongs at the top) and although some of them can be pricey they are solid metal and allow you to do so many wonderfully creative things. The Bernina home site has lots of manual info online and also info on what the different feet can do and how to use them.

I would jump at the chance for a 1120 - I suggest that you get it checked out and serviced to make sure that all is ok and then make a deal with your BIL based on the service bill - you won't be disappointed with this machine!

Sorry but if has been sitting for that long, DBIL should give it you to enjoy and maybe make him a quilt for it.

Does he just want to get rid of it? he should give it a good home. Was it your sisters machine. He should give it to you. He should give it to you. He should give it to you!

Does he need the $. Sell on E-bay. I also think you would spend more on accessories and tune ups than it is worth.
peace

A sewing machine that will outlast you has what value?

I love Bernina sewing machines, but don't like to do business with family

As for as I'm concerned Candace and Jackie are spot on! I've sewn on and owned many different brands in many different settings. In the 80's I was allowed to sew on a friends Bernina and I coveted it until 2000 when my husband bought me my very own! Best machines ever! In my opinion😉

It needs to be looked at by a service person who can estimate its condition and also what accessories are missing and there cost.
I love my bernina but I still likemy janome for some applique work.