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Quote:

Originally Posted by newdoda (Post 6079283)

Hi, I know (or at least hope) that I will get a lot of opinions, however, that is what I am looking for. Currently I own a Bernina 640 but I am not finding it very user friendly. It might be because I am a slow learner or that I never got my classes but for whatever reason I'm not sure that it is the machine for me. I had the opportunity to watch a friend using her Viking Diamond and everything about it seemed like a breeze. My question is: what machine is recommend for someone who is not THAT experienced and is mostly self taught with just a few classes under her belt. Really want to progress in skill level and number of quilts made. Thanks for any and all feedback.:thumbup:

I have a Viking Designer Diamond and a Pfaff Creative Vision - and love both machines!! HOWEVER - the Viking is - by FAR - more user friendly for both sewing/quilting and embroidery functions ( IMHO)...The Pfaff has far more flexibility (can do many things with the machine that with the Viking requires the 5D software )..........I have tried the top of the line Bernina machines ( in 2005 and again in 2012 ) but was not as happy with those as I am with the Viking and Pfaff! As I am getting older - the learning of new things is more difficult - takes more repetitions til I get it down..........I would strongly recommend the Viking - especially if you have a local dealer handy who can provide classes and support.

I find that the machines are basically similar in operation, and if you actually get practice by using them, it becomes second nature and you don't need lessons. You can't learn to sew if the machine sits in the cupboard most of the time. Play around with the machine and some practice sandwiches.

I had a terrific Bernina dealer (now retired) but I never knew about those Workbooks before. I have two wonderful "retired" Berninas (130 & 153QE) that almost seem like an extension of my arms after all this time but I just downloaded the workbook for them and know I'll learn something new that I can try. Thank you for the link!

Quote:

Originally Posted by Skyangel (Post 6079368)

Can you go back and take your classes? I have Bernina 440 and The classes made a TON of difference to me becoming comfortable with my machine. They are included in the cost of your machine and the dealer OWES them to you.

I bought my machine used, 1 year old, and it was shipped accross country to me. My local dealer has an "adoption" program if you did ot purchase from her. I paid to take the classes but it was worth every penny. If you do not live near the dealer you bought from (if you bought it new), perhaps the closest dealer to you would let you pay to take the classes from them. Berninas are great machines and I feel bad that you haven't been able to bond with yours. At the very least, download the My Bernina workbook and do the practice exercises.

http://www.keizerbernina.com/my-bernina-workbooks.htm

I definitely agree. I have three Bernina's and once you learn them, they are fantastic!! And thanks so much for this link! It is wonderful!!

IMHO progressing in skill level does not have much to do with your macine. But rather in the increase skill of the quilter when it comes to cutting, patterns, and peicing. A "easy" machine will not keep your seams even or cut the blocks correctly. I would suggest that you take beginner quilting lessons from your LQS if you want to improve your skill quickly. Any machine can be a struggle if the user is not struggling with the quilting process.

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Originally Posted by Candace (Post 6079378)

Go back and get your classes!

I have a question. What did your classes consist of? I bought a Bernina 730 & the classes consisted mostly of her showing me what the machine would do, not actually doing anything. I took notes, but I don't feel that was very helpful.

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Originally Posted by JudeWill (Post 6081428)

I had 8 hours worth of classes with my Bernina(included in the price) and the local dealership offers a monthly group for our specific models at an additional cost that covers all sorts of different projects. When one shops around for machines, they should also be shopping for a dealer that offers good education.

Quote:

Originally Posted by newdoda (Post 6079283)

I know this isn't exactly what you asked for but I have a Bernina 640 & am very familiar with it. I believe everyone learns a little differently and maybe all you really need is someone to ask. I would love to "walk you through" step by step any difficulties or questions you may have. We could both sit at our machines as we talk our way through things you like to learn and I'm confident we could have you using all the wonderful features of your machine in no time. Feel free to pm me and we can exchange phone numbers if you would like some one on one help.

I love my big Elna Quilter's Dream but I also love all my old machines.

Newdoda, I feel your pain, I have a Bernina 200, never bonded with it, really regret buying it, don't even like the sound it makes. But I love, love my Brother & it does so much more and so easy.