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Moderated by Sharon1952, EleanorSews
Posted on: 4/22/09 6:02 PM ET
I have at least intermediate or better sewing ability, although I do not sew as much as I used to. When I do sew, it is either repairing clothing, making curtains, or recovereing outside chair pads. I have an old singer that was SO dependable. I would like to replace it with a machine that is solid and capable of handling several thicknesses of fabric. I am leaning toward the Kenmore 16231 (made by Janome, I think) or the Viking Emerald 118, but am not stuck on either. The more I read on the internet, the less I know! I wouldlike to keep it under $400. Any help appreciated.
Posted on: 4/22/09 6:37 PM ET
In reply to Sastxmx
Please do not buy a Viking Emerald. I almost bought a 118, but upgraded to a 183 and am very unhappy with it. I have owned it for about 7 months and am looking at a Bernina replacement. I have used an ancient Necchi and a couple of Singers over the years for the basics: they were ALL better than the Viking Emerald 183. The Emerald's stitch quality and feeding are very uneven. The machine will not handle heavy fabrics at all, and I hem a lot of jeans. Even the shop I bought it from told me (after I bought it, of course) that it was a "lower end" machine. Please find something more reliable.
Posted on: 4/22/09 6:47 PM ET
In reply to Sastxmx
As a crazed Bernina possessor (I have three, and I know that doesn't make me as crazed as some other Bernina owners), I'd have to recommend an old Bernina 830. I recently got one made in 1979 off ebay for $355. My other Berninas date from 1963 and 1982.
These old warhorses will sew through whatever you offer them; they never break down; and the stitch quality is just beautiful.
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These old warhorses will sew through whatever you offer them; they never break down; and the stitch quality is just beautiful.
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Elona
Posted on: 4/23/09 2:05 AM ET
I have the Emerald 118, I love to sew on it! Stitches are nice, sews multiple layers of denim w/no problem.
I recently purchased a 18221 Kenmore for my DD, it seems to be a nice sturdy machine so far, and at a very good price point. So, I am impressed w/Kenmores so far.
Have you test drove the machines you are interested in? That will help your decision I think.
The best of luck in your search. Please keep us posted on your decision. It is always fun to see what machine is decided on.
I recently purchased a 18221 Kenmore for my DD, it seems to be a nice sturdy machine so far, and at a very good price point. So, I am impressed w/Kenmores so far.
Have you test drove the machines you are interested in? That will help your decision I think.
The best of luck in your search. Please keep us posted on your decision. It is always fun to see what machine is decided on.
Posted on: 4/23/09 9:08 AM ET
In reply to knitlitcamper
Thanks. No, I have not tested any of the machines yet, but plan to make the rounds tomorrow in Dallas.
My main objective is to find a machine that seems solid as I am sewing. I do not embroider or quilt, or even sew that often, but when I do, I want a really good machine.
My main objective is to find a machine that seems solid as I am sewing. I do not embroider or quilt, or even sew that often, but when I do, I want a really good machine.
Posted on: 4/23/09 9:32 AM ET
In reply to Delete member
The Viking Emerald 118 are very capable machines. They are not the same as the 183. The Emerald 118 is mechanical/electronic (not computerized) and can handle multiple layers well. It has some nice features too.
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Carol - * I always have more time to sew *
Babylock Ellageo, Viking Mega Quilter, Janome MC6600P, Babylock Evolve Serger, Janome FM 725
Babylock Ellageo, Viking Mega Quilter, Janome MC6600P, Babylock Evolve Serger, Janome FM 725
Posted on: 4/23/09 9:42 AM ET
You might want to read the threads here on older Singers. You might want to buy a vintage Singer which has been refurbished. I don't own one, but have heard such good things about several models. What Singer are you replacing?
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Posted on: 4/23/09 9:43 AM ET
In reply to Sastxmx
As you see from the replies so far, choosing a sewing machine is very subjective and personal. Since you are an "intermediate or better", I would say buy the best you can afford. Try out several brands and see what suits your needs. I recommend you buy from a reputable dealer, rather than a big box store.
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I sew, therefore I am.
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Posted on: 4/23/09 5:17 PM ET
In reply to Mufffet
I am replacing a vintage Singer 99K. I looked it up, and it was made in the '50's, and it is listed as "heavy duty" and also as "industrial."
I love that machine!
I love that machine!
Posted on: 4/23/09 7:11 PM ET
In reply to Sastxmx
In that case, let me direct you to here:
Singer Topic
If it were me, and I had a 99K, I would be looking for another one. If it was on Ebay where it was listed as ''industrial'', it is not, although it is very heavy duty. An industrial machine is one used specifically in the industry, such as shoe repair shops, tack shops and dressmakers/home interior shops. Those machines have a very, very fast stitching speed and come in cabinets. The 99K can sew through a lot of heavy fabrics, but it is not a true ''industrial'' machine--don't be misled. MTCFWIW
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Singer Topic

If it were me, and I had a 99K, I would be looking for another one. If it was on Ebay where it was listed as ''industrial'', it is not, although it is very heavy duty. An industrial machine is one used specifically in the industry, such as shoe repair shops, tack shops and dressmakers/home interior shops. Those machines have a very, very fast stitching speed and come in cabinets. The 99K can sew through a lot of heavy fabrics, but it is not a true ''industrial'' machine--don't be misled. MTCFWIW
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