mollycoomer
 Beginner MI Member since 8/26/10 Posts: 73

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Date: 6/3/12 0:28 AM Presently I have a Viking Designer II which sews very well with no problems, but I'd like to get away from the stitch cards and have all the stitches programmed into the machine.I ruled out Viking Sapphire after reading reviews.Mainly do quilting & sewing, but want some decorative stitches as well as alphabet/numerics.I like Vikings because they're user friendly & have local store.Only other dealer is Bernina.$600-$1100 & thinking used machine.All recommendations welcomed. |
SewPerfect
 Advanced NC USA Member since 1/6/04 Posts: 165 |
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Date: 6/4/12 0:28 AM I tested the entire Sapphire line about two months ago and thought all performed very well, the 875 being my favorite with the Tribute 140C next, the Tribute is a repackaged 835 I believe.
I have a Designer SE now, it's a great machine. The Sapphires got bad reviews when the line first came out a couple of years ago but the bugs have been cleared up now from what I hear. The 875 was $2300 at my local dealer. -- Edited on 6/4/12 0:29 AM -- ------ Happy Seams to you....until we meet again!
Janome Horizon 7700, Pfaff 6122 Tipmatic, Brother PQ1500S, Singer 15-91, Pfaff serger |
Maia B
 Advanced Beginner IL USA Member since 10/27/10 Posts: 3395 |
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In reply to mollycoomer <<
Date: 6/4/12 0:58 AM Now by quilting, do you mean that you machine quilt? I ask because many folks who machine piece and/or appliqué refer to any part of the quiltmaking process as "quilting". Others reserve that for the stitching together of the top, batting, and backing.
If you mostly machine piece or appliqué, in addition to general sewing, but quilt by hand or have your tops quilted by a longarm quilt artist, you might love a Bernina 3 series or a 430 or 530, though they'd cost more than your stated budget. If you machine quilt larger quilts, the smaller harp of the 3 series probably wouldn't work for you.
If you're heavily invested in Viking feet, it might be worth it to find a Viking model that suits you. ------ 🌸 Plenty of machines, mostly Berninas 🌸 |
isakswings
Advanced Beginner UT USA Member since 8/22/08 Posts: 355 |
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In reply to mollycoomer <<
Date: 6/4/12 7:33 PM I have a Sapphire 835 and I love it! It has an awesome harp! I love the stitches, the sewing advisor, the self adjusting presser foot, the ease of use, the lighting, and the easy to use snap on feet. I also love the look of my machine. It is so pretty! I have read some great reviews on the new Sapphire line.
That said, this is my first nice machine. It could be that I am easily impressed, but I don't think that is the only reason I love it. The 875 is awesome,.but it was too far out of my budget. If you want a Viking and want to spend less then 3 k, I think the Sapphire line is the only option. Not sure though! Happy Shopping! ------ I'm fairly new to sewing but I am finding it to be fun and rewarding! |
isakswings
Advanced Beginner UT USA Member since 8/22/08 Posts: 355 |
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Date: 6/4/12 7:38 PM I wanted to add that I paid 1035 with tax for my machine. I also know of a few people who like the Emerald 183 sewing machine. It is 599 here. When I said Sapphire line was your only option under 3k, I meant for quilting and if buying new. :)
Also, if you don't mind ordering online, a lot of people here adore Juki machines. I considered them but preferred to buy local. -- Edited on 6/4/12 7:41 PM -- ------ I'm fairly new to sewing but I am finding it to be fun and rewarding! |
SewKrazie
Intermediate MO USA Member since 7/7/08 Posts: 72 |
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In reply to mollycoomer <<
Date: 6/4/12 9:36 PM I just put a classified ad on PR to sell a viking 875 that I never used. I was impressed enough to buy it, but I just don't have room for a third machine. Decided to stay with Baby Lock so all my pressure feet are interchangeable. It was a impulse buy and I hate that it has been sitting in a case for a year. My loss could be your gain. |
betsey
Beginner NJ USA Member since 11/9/03 Posts: 34 |
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Date: 6/8/12 9:44 AM the tribute 140c is a repackaged saphire 855. very very nice machine...and can be had for less than 1400- |
sewgirl101
Advanced Beginner SC USA Member since 12/30/08 Posts: 127 |
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Date: 6/15/12 12:55 PM I know what you mean, i have a Bernina 450 that I paid 3k for brand new about 3 years ago, used maybe 4 times. just sits in its soft case in the closet. I have been using my Babylock Elissimo and my little Janome QDc. ------ Babylock Ellissimo
Babylock Evolution
Bernina 630E
Bernina 450
Janome 6600P
Janome 3160QDC |
jacken
Intermediate CA USA Member since 6/19/12 Posts: 10 |
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In reply to mollycoomer <<
Date: 6/19/12 5:31 AM I always recommend for Kenmore because I have used it and find it really fine. |
fabric stash
Member since 2/25/08 Posts: 1 |
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Date: 6/19/12 10:45 AM I was wondering what your price would be for your Viking 875?
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