Question about a Bernina
#1
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Join Date: Feb 2011
Location: Hays, KS
Posts: 75
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
#2
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Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Ontario, Canada
Posts: 41,463
I am not familiar with that model but I would be concerned about how it was stored. If it was kept in the heated house then it shouldn't have rusted parts. The grease will need to be replaced and have a good go over by a technician.
The first order of business would be to see if it sews. How many feet come with it? They can run about $50 each. What shape are the foot and cords in?
The first order of business would be to see if it sews. How many feet come with it? They can run about $50 each. What shape are the foot and cords in?
#3
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Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: Southern USA
Posts: 15,951
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.
Last edited by Onebyone; 02-16-2015 at 11:33 AM.
#4
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Join Date: Aug 2009
Location: United States
Posts: 2,222
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
To me, it is worth purchasing and having it serviced.
#5
Super Member
Join Date: Aug 2009
Location: United States
Posts: 2,222
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
To me, it is worth purchasing and having it serviced.
#6
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.
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.
#7
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
#8
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Join Date: Jan 2010
Location: Outer Space
Posts: 9,319
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.
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.
#9
Super Member
Join Date: Sep 2011
Location: Southern Indiana
Posts: 5,052
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.
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.
#10
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Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: Southern California
Posts: 19,131
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.
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