Please LOGIN or Join PatternReview

Go to Page: 1 of 22 of 2

sewing machine decisions
sbutchin Member since 1/5/08 Posts: 6	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 1/11/08 8:17 AM I'm sure this is the millionth time someone has asked this... but... I am looking to buy a sewing machine and need help - I have narrowed it down to Viking, but thought with all the talent here someone could steer me in the right direction - I know I want a computerized machine, but really don't need embrodery - although most of the higher end models come with it - i will be sewing home dec projects, upholstery material, denim, mending, craft projects - it needs to be able to handle thick fabric - i love the high end models, but can't afford the prices and I am looking at used - an older model with great features would be fine - i see the designer i with floppy is the same as the new one except for the usb - but again, still pricey - i love the features, but again don't need embrodery = any suggestions - thank you so much
sewfrequent Intermediate TX USA Member since 6/27/03 Posts: 2900	Login to reply to this post In reply to sbutchin Like this post Date: 1/11/08 8:52 AM You would probably like the very recently retired Platinum 775 or its predecessor, the 770. These are very loaded machines without embroidery. Currently, Viking has a new line of machines called the Sapphires--830, 850 and 870. The 870 is the TOL of that group with the most stitches and a wide-harp. It is quite possible you can still find a 775 and one PR member even bought a NIB 770 very recently. If your dealer has no stock and can't order one, you might find both machines online since they're recently retired models.
sbutchin Member since 1/5/08 Posts: 6	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 1/11/08 9:05 AM thanks for the reply - i really want to get a machine but don't want to rush my decision - i will look into the platinum line - i loved the sapphires, but can't afford them, but of course love their features! guess i'll be heading back to the store once again -
Betakin Advanced AZ USA Member since 4/22/04 Posts: 7279	Login to reply to this post In reply to sbutchin Like this post Date: 1/11/08 10:10 AM You may wish to see if somebody has traded in thier Viking Interlude for a newer model or a machine with embroidery. The Interludes are very nice machines. They came in two models, the 435 and 445. Sewfrequent and I both own 445's and we love our Ludes. The 445 has the sewing advisor where the 435 does not. The 445 has a few more features and stitches and a leather button hole and teflon foot that the 435 does not have. The 445 also can use the sensor plug in button hole foot. These are also very nice looking machines and made in Sweden. The Interludes are rather hard to find because the Platinum models took their place. I think you can still find a few new Interludes at on line dealers and pay about half the original price now that they have become discontinued models. They are basically the same machine as either the Platinum 715 or 730 and take the same Viking feet. I hope you find a nice machine for yourself.
Member since 12/31/69	Login to reply to this post In reply to sbutchin Like this post Date: 1/11/08 10:10 AM It might be easier for people to help you if you post what your top price is.
PattiAnnJ   Advanced OH USA Member since 12/3/06 Posts: 4970	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 1/11/08 10:55 AM Make a list of what you want in a machine and take that list, including budget, if applicable and start visiting dealers and let them show you what their machines can do with the various materials you will be using. Buy the machine you like best from the dealer you like best.
kauffmds Advanced WV USA Member since 1/8/08 Posts: 16	Login to reply to this post In reply to sbutchin Like this post Date: 1/11/08 12:10 PM I've owned the Viking 500, which became the rose. Then went to the 550 Lily. From there I went to the Designer I floppy and now have the SE. I have to tell you that the 500 was the only appliance to survive a lightning strike at our house. It turned the machine on and the sewing light burned extremely bright, but I had it checked and there was no damage, not even to the light. I think you are wise looking at used older machines. All of my machines were in immaculate condition when I sold them and were great buys for the buyers. I gave the 500 to a friend of mine; it's still going strong and it's 13-14 years old. You know, just because the machine comes with embroidery, doesn't mean that you have to use it. A few years ago I swore I'd never use the embroidery either. Now I have the SE. The designer I has an amazing array of stitches for "regular sewing". After spending a lot of money to finally get to where I'm at, I wish I'd put a more money into it in the beginning and had gotten a more advanced machine to grow into.
sbutchin Member since 1/5/08 Posts: 6	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 1/12/08 0:26 AM THANKS FOR ALL THE GREAT ADVICE - i'M NOT COUNTING OUT AN EMBROIDERY MACHINE, IF IT COMES ALONG WITH THE MACHINE THAT MEETS MY NEEDS THAT'S FINE - I'D LIKE TO STAY IN THE $500-700 RANGE - I'D ALSO LIKE A MACHINE I CAN SEW JEANS WITH - I'M WILLING TO WAIT TO FIND THE RIGHT ONE (WELL NOT TOO LONG!) BUT ALL THIS INFO IS HELPFUL IN MAKING A DECISION - THANKS AGAIN
Dorie Rachel Expert/Couture OR USA Member since 1/2/08 Posts: 8	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 1/12/08 1:13 AM I have an omni stitch and need some help in using it any help would be much appreciated. ------ Dorie
Dorie Rachel Expert/Couture OR USA Member since 1/2/08 Posts: 8	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 1/12/08 1:14 AM help need to find out how to use my omni stitch machine ------ Dorie

Go to Page: 1 of 22 of 2

Please LOGIN or Join PatternReview

Printable Version

* Advertising and soliciting is strictly prohibited on PatternReview.com. If you find a post which is not in agreement with our Terms and Conditions, please click on the Report Post button to report it.