Researching for a new sewing/embroidery machine. Would like opinions?
 

Hi everyone, I currently have a Singer Futura Ce-150 sewing/embroidery machine. When I got it, I didn't know anything about embroidery. It has been a great beginner machine. BUT, I'm preparing to upgrade in the next 6mos. I'm wanting a bigger embroidery field(currently have 5x7), automatic thread cutter, larger sewing area from needle to neck, and able to leave embroidery unit attached while sewing. I've looked at Babylock Elegante3 and Ellisimo Gold. One feature I like on both of those machines is that you can sew/embroider on leather. Does anyone have opinions on durability of these machines? If I'm going to spend over $5000, I want it to last a LONG time.
Are there other brands that are better quality for the money? Such as Janome, Bernina, etc.
Any help/opinions will be GREATLY appreciated!!!!

God Bless,
Kristi

Really, most higher end embroidery machines would be able to embroider on leather with the appropriate needle. Will you really make use of that? I've heard really good things about Babylock, but I've got both a Janome and Bernina embroidery/sewing machine. You really need to sit and test drive all the machines, by different manufacturers(and possibly different dealers) to make a well rounded decision.

Can't go wrong with a Bernina. My is 8 years old and sews on everything like a dream. Embroidery is beautiful as well. do test them out for yourself.

Thank you, ladies!! I've only been to Sewing World in Ft Worth, which carries Babylock. I am so paranoid about some shops due to feeling pressured to buy right then. Guess I need to make a trip to MidCities area to test drive Berninas at Hancocks. Linda, do you know anywhere else around Ft Worth that sells Berninas?

I have a Babylock - not an embroidery machine though - but I LOVELOVELOVE my machine. If nothing else, the one-button threader is worth the price. lol

I have a Janome 11000SE and love both the embroidery and sewing. Easy to use - Just a note if you go with a Janome make sure you keep the bobbin area lint free -

MadQuilter, I definitely liked that feature on the model I looked at. :)

Ruby, thanks bunches for the heads up about lint in the bobbin area. Little things like that are so great to know.

This board has taught me ALOT in the last 2 1/2 years. Thank you, everyone on here, for all the input. Sometimes I just search the board for things I need help with.

What I have is a little older model than what you are considering, but comparable to the Babylock, I believe they share the same manufacturer, it is a Brother Innovis 4000D. I've had it for 4-1/2 years, it was a demo machine from a show and I paid $5,000 for it, with upgraded software. This has been an excellent machine, I have used it exclusively for embroidery, I have never sewed on it but the sewing machine capabilities are awesome (I did sew on it when I took the classes). I've had it fixed once, when the hook that pulled the thread through the needle bent. Took all of 10 minutes for the repair guy to fix and he didn't even charge me. I think it was well worth the money.

I have a Bernina 640. I've owned BabyLock and Brother embroidery machines in the past as well. All stitched well, and gave me absolutely no trouble whatsoever. I bought a Bernina this last time only because my dealer closed up shop. I'm very happy with my Bernina 640, I don't plan on buying another machine now that I have this one. I love the BSR, although I'm still learning how to use it.

I have a Brother Innovis 6000 and I love it. Previously, I owned a Bernina 440. It was a great machine but I wanted a larger embroidery unit. I sew, quilt and embroider on my Brother and I love it.