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Member since 9/27/09
Posts: 12
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Posted on: 9/27/09 7:40 PM ET
I am purchasing a used Designer SE (used) with 3 hours on it for $900 - is this a good machine for a beginner to start off with. I have limited funds but wanted to take classes. Will I need to purchase things in addtion to what it comes with to enable myself to use it? Is it user friendly? Does it come with patterns to embroider already or do I need to buy them? Does it come with software to munipulate? I am very computer savy but new to sewing. I am a single mom of 3 and do not have extra cash to put out to enable me to sew. I need help and guidance.
-- Edited on 9/27/09 7:48 PM --
-- Edited on 9/27/09 7:51 PM --
  
Member since 3/23/05
Posts: 322
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Posted on: 9/29/09 4:01 PM ET
In reply to sewapprentice
Are you getting this machine from a dealer who can help you? Are you absolutely sure of the machine? Unless you're getting it from your best friend, the price sounds much too good to be true. I'd be very wary. VERY.
That being said, the SE is a terrific machine. I find mine very user friendly but it's my third Viking and I've been sewing for a looooong time! If you are a complete beginner, you might feel a bit overwhelmed. On the other hand, it probably depends on how easily you learn things.
There are a number of built in embroideries but you'll probably want to buy more. Ther are lots of relatively inexpensive deisgns and freebies available on line--as well as really expensive stuff. You can send the designs to the machine via flash drive or through a USB connection as long as you have the communication disc. This should come with the machine. You will be able to do a small amount of manipulation.
Caveat 1: Machine embroidery is an expensive hobby. You will need stabilizers and machine emboidery thread. "Regular" sewing thread won't do.
Caveat 2: You must have the communication disc.
Caveat 3: Although this machine is user friendly, you may need help. I'd be happy to help you out (as will many on this forum) if I can.
Caveat 4: I really can't figure out how you c an get an SE for $900. You have to tell me!
Oh, also, how do you know that it has only 3 hours? The time which the user can see can be reset at any time. It takes a tech to accesss the total hours.
I hope I haven't scared you. I've had my SE for nearly two years and it's grreat.
  
Member since 2/2/04
Posts: 787
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Posted on: 9/29/09 6:00 PM ET
I'd be wary, too. If you are buying this off the internet you should be aware that sometimes it is a scam and there is no machine, sometimes there is a machine, but it was stolen. Be careful.
  
Member since 4/22/08
Posts: 420
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Posted on: 9/29/09 6:55 PM ET
In reply to sewapprentice
I agree with Shana here. That price is way low. It makes me think there is something wrong with the machine. I have had my SELE for a few months and I love it. I have purchased 3 Viking machines, (Emerald 118, serger 910, SELE) in the last year.

The SELE is a great machine and I love mine. It is very user friendly and most embroidery design companies offer the VIP format which you will need. The machine should come with basic software which will manage your designs and use of communicating between the machine and your computer. You will need additional software if you want to make your own designs and some of them are expensive. Viking's 4D Software is very expensive and you will definitely need additional assistance to use it. There are places where you can purchase tutorials on all aspects of it. Embird is a reasonably priced software and many people find it wonderful.

As to things you will need to use the machine. To embroider you will need rayon or polyester 40 wt thread for most standard designs, stabilizers ( MANY different types for different applications) which can be expensive and bobbin thread. If you are doing sewing your machine should come with several different presser feet, including an advanced foot for doing buttonholes. There are tons of decorative stitches on the machine. You can transfer designs downloaded from your computer to the machine via a Flashdrive as the SELE has a USB port. Any flashdrive will do, I have had no problem using a 2GB size. I would not use one with the 1.0 format as the machine (and most computers) now use the 2.0 (?) format.

Your machine will come with a limited number of designs, but there are tons of websites that offer free or very low cost designs. Be careful, just like fabric stashing, design stashing is now the thing and you can easily get carried away.

I have to confirm what many will tell you, your dealer will be your best friend here. If you are purchasing from a dealer make sure they include lessons on how to use all aspects of the machine. A dealer will honor your warranty if you buy from them. If this is a private purchase, ask for proof of when the machine was purchased and last serviced. Servicing your machine can become very costly due to the computer in it.

I know this has been long winded. and there is probably a lot more to say. But, all that said, if you feel you are getting a well maintained machine, go for it. But I am leery as the least expensive I have seen this machine (used) is around $2500.

I hope this helps.
Karen
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Karen
  
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