profannie

Hi everyone,
I will pick up a FREE Bernina 817 in a cabinet this week. I already have a beloved 831 and a nice 730, so this one is not for me: it will be a Christmas gift for the very nice woman who takes care of my kids. She wants to learn to sew but doesn't really have the money to get started. So when I saw the add for this free Bernina, I tought it would be perfect for her.
Now, I don't think she have the space to keep the cabinet; more likely she will use the sewing machine on her kitchen table, while playing/chatting with her daughters. Should I buy a cheap Singer plastic carrying box to put the Bernina in it? Would it fit? Should I ask my husband/FIL to built a woden box for it? Any other idea?
Thanks,
Annie

ragquilter

I dropped my favorite machine, EVER and ruined it in one of those cheap plastic boxes. One of the clips wasn't completely locked and the machine fell out, I was going down cement steps at the time, not a pretty site. I'm not sure if I didn't have it completely locked or if the clip gave way due to the weight of the machine. So now I just take a pillow case and make a quick cover for my machines, as I will never trust a case again.

Vridar

Have someone make a box. More sturdy and maker can secure it in.

profannie

Oh, what a sad story... I wasn't really thinking about having a carrying case to actually carry the sewing machine, because those all metal baby are quite heavy and I wouldn't trust a China made plastic box to really support it. It's just that I don't think the machine can be operated without sitting in a box. Of course having somebody making one would be nice, but I think hubby would grumble (he is already grumbling a bit to have to help me to go get it) My FIL may do me this favor, but... it`s my FIL, so I'm kind of shy to ask :-) What about buying a cheap Japanese clone just for the box (would it fit?) But what to do with the discarded sewing machine... I can't trow any sewing machine away...

Stitchnripper

Are you sure it needs a box/case for it to sew? My 401 sits on a towel and it goes fine. But the configuration may not be the same.

profannie

Good point. My only flat bed sewing machine is a Singer 15 (the others are free arm), so I assumed any flat bed needs a case. If it can run without being put on something, it would be nice. Let's wait to see it on Thursday before getting upset... I'm always thinking ahead

jlm5419

I would suggest asking her which she would prefer. She MIGHT find the space for a cabinet if it is a gift. I find sewing easier with a cabinet, especially with larger items.