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Bernina 350 question re. foot control upgrade Will speed control work with the nicer pedal? Is that one better regardless?
Theresse Beginner Member since 4/29/09 Posts: 60	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 1/15/13 4:33 AM I like the consistency of the speed control but want to be able to use the pedal (foot control) with it. I know that doesn't work (just with the on/off button for sewing without the pedal), but I'm wondering if it WOULD work if I were to buy the fancier pedal - the one that allows you to raise the needle with a tap. Anyone know? Also, what do you like about the nicer pedal and can you give me a couple of scenarios to help me understand why it would be so much more helpful than just using the basic one the 350 came with? If you think it's worth getting it, where would you recommend I get it/best price? Thanks!
Sew Nanny   Intermediate MS USA Member since 8/13/06 Posts: 1310	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 1/15/13 8:56 AM I bought the upgraded foot pedal for my 380 which I just sold. My dealer ordered it for me at a cost of $99. The only difference in this foot pedal is that it allows you to raise/lower the needle with the tap of your heel on the pedal. I just bought a used Activa 230PE and I don't think I'm going to add the upgraded pedal this time. ------ Patricia Bernina 830LE ~ Bernina 630E ~ Bernina B350SE Vintage Postcard Dragonfly ~ Juki TL2010Q ~ Babylock Enlighten ~ Babylock BLCS "One thing life has taught me: if you are interested, you never have to look for new interests. They come to you. When you are genuinely interested in one thing, it will always lead to something else." Eleanor Roosevelt
Maia B   Advanced Beginner IL USA Member since 10/27/10 Posts: 3395	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 1/15/13 8:58 AM I don't know if it works better with the speed slider. My Activa 240 doesn't have the slider. My 440 and 630 do, so even if I "floor it", it only goes as fast as I have the slider set. I have never even used the pedal that came with my Activa 240, because the heel tap needle control is a "must-have" for me. I always borrow the pedal from my 440 or 630, which is larger and more substantial also. The best price from a dealer I've heard was $99- but dealers in my area charge more. I know that's not a complete answer, surely someone with a 3 series will respond soon. ------ 🌸 Plenty of machines, mostly Berninas 🌸
ilesliemy   Advanced TX USA Member since 2/25/05 Posts: 740	Login to reply to this post 1 member likes this. Date: 1/15/13 9:58 AM Well, besides the ability to raise and lower the needle with just a heel down push you do gain the ability to approach a seam, say a collar notch that you are top stitching one stitch at a time. Actually one half stitch at a time just with this rocking motion of the foot pedal. I feel crippled with out this pedal and when I use a machine without it I feel like I am missing an important tool! Leslie ------ Bernina Gal
ilesliemy   Advanced TX USA Member since 2/25/05 Posts: 740	Login to reply to this post 1 member likes this. Date: 1/15/13 9:58 AM Forgot to say that yes the speed control works with it. Leslie ------ Bernina Gal
Karen31   Advanced USA Member since 1/25/09 Posts: 931	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 1/15/13 11:57 AM If I'm reading this right, i.e. your reference to "consistency" of the speed control - is it constant unchanging speed you're looking for? If so that can only be obtained using the push button start/stop. Very handy for long long lengths or free motion for keeping stitch speed constant! ------ Karen
Doris W. in TN   Intermediate TN USA Member since 2/9/04 Posts: 6744	Login to reply to this post In reply to Theresse << Like this post Date: 1/15/13 1:01 PM I have the 350PE and the upgrade foot pedal for needle up/down. The sliding bar speed control does not function with either foot pedal.
ilesliemy   Advanced TX USA Member since 2/25/05 Posts: 740	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 1/15/13 6:13 PM Sorry I do not have a 350, I have a 230, but I just sold my 440 and the speed slider did work with the foot control. I never used the start stop button on that machine either. I still think the fancier foot pedal is to be desired for all the other things it does. You may still prefer the consistency of the speed control! Leslie ------ Bernina Gal
andye   Beginner VA USA Member since 5/9/09 Posts: 1529	Login to reply to this post In reply to ilesliemy << 1 member likes this. Date: 1/15/13 6:44 PM Quote: ilesliemy Well, besides the ability to raise and lower the needle with just a heel down push you do gain the ability to approach a seam, say a collar notch that you are top stitching one stitch at a time. Actually one half stitch at a time just with this rocking motion of the foot pedal. I feel crippled with out this pedal and when I use a machine without it I feel like I am missing an important tool! Leslie Just like a treadle? That does sound interesting,
ilesliemy   Advanced TX USA Member since 2/25/05 Posts: 740	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 1/16/13 10:43 AM I never thought of it that way but yes, it is a firm rocking motion with your foot centered on the foot (yes your heel and toes hang off) and it it this foot pedal that has kept me firmly in the Bernina family. I almost never take my hands or eyes off of my project between the knee lever and the foot pedal. Leslie ------ Bernina Gal

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