Bernina Best Sewing Machines: How to Choose
If you’re in the market for a new sewing machine, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. In this video, learn 10 things to know about buying a new machine, specifically focusing on the Bernina 470, 480, and 770 models. They cover topics such as skill level, manual vs. automatic features, and stitch options.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Consider your skill level and what features you need in a machine.
- Bernina machines offer a range of manual and automatic features, including automatic needle threaders and stitch regulators.
- Bernina machines come with extensive warranties and support, including mastery classes and extended warranty options.
Skill Level
Manual vs Automatic
When considering buying a new sewing machine, one of the first things to think about is your skill level. Have you been sewing for years? Have you been sewing on a mechanical machine versus an automatic machine? Do you want to up your skill level and get into the next machine up?
Manual machines are very simple and basic, making them easy to use, even though they do have a great number of features such as different stitches. However, on mechanical machines, a lot of them you’re going to have to self-thread and so you gotta get down there and try to thread the needle just right. Eyesight and steady fingers are necessary for this.
On the other hand, automatic machines broaden the range of stitches for you and give you more options. For example, semi-automatic needle threaders are available on some machines, and even bigger machines have automatic needle threaders which are a great feature.
A lot of people get intimidated by the electronics and the automatic stuff, but after you use it a few times, it’s second nature. It’s just a matter of getting in there and using it, getting used to it.
If you’re looking for more automatic features, the 480 is a great entry-level machine. However, if you’re more comfortable with manual machines, the 470 and 770 are also great entry-level machines. Keep in mind that with every Bernina purchase, you get a mastery class, so you have mastery books that you can do at home on your own time, or you can take the mastery class with an instructor.
In summary, when considering buying a new machine, think about your skill level and whether you prefer manual or automatic machines. Don’t be intimidated by the electronics and the automatic features, as they can make sewing easier and more efficient. With every Bernina purchase, you get a great support system and warranties, so you can feel confident in your purchase.
Stitch Options
When it comes to stitch options, it’s important to consider what you’ll be using your machine for. Bernina offers a range of machines with different stitch options to suit your needs. Let’s take a look at some of the options available.
4 Series Machines
The 4 series machines, such as the 435 and 480, are great for those who are just starting out. They offer a range of utility and decorative stitches, making them ideal for general sewing projects. However, if you’re a quilter, you may want to consider the 475QE, which is specifically designed for quilters and offers more patchwork and quilting stitches.
7 Series Machines
The 7 series machines, such as the 570 and 770QE, are geared towards quilters and offer a wide range of quilting stitches. They also have plenty of utility and decorative stitches for other sewing projects. One of the benefits of the 7 series machines is that they come with an embroidery module, which allows you to add embroidery to your projects.
Embroidery
If you’re interested in embroidery, the 570 and 770QE are great options. They come with an embroidery module that allows you to add embroidery to your projects. You can also download embroidery motifs online and add them to your machine. The 570 is a great entry-level machine for embroidery, while the 770QE offers more advanced features and a larger embroidery module.
No matter what type of sewing you do, there’s a Bernina machine with stitch options that will suit your needs. From the 4 series machines to the 7 series machines with embroidery capabilities, there’s a machine for every skill level and project. Remember, when you purchase a Bernina machine, you also get access to a mastery class and a great support system to help you get the most out of your machine.
Warranties and Support
When purchasing a new sewing machine, it’s important to consider the warranties and support offered by the manufacturer and the dealer. Here at Stitchin’ Heaven, we want to ensure that our customers have peace of mind when it comes to their investment in a Bernina machine.
Bernina Warranties
Bernina offers a comprehensive warranty on their machines. Electrical parts are covered for two years, while circuit boards are covered for five years. The frame and mechanical parts are covered for an impressive 20 years, excluding consumable parts such as bobbin cases and hooks. This warranty ensures that your machine is protected against defects and malfunctions for a long time.
Stitchin’ Heaven Extended Warranty
In addition to the Bernina warranty, your sewing machine dealer offers an extended warranty option for those who want even more coverage. This extended warranty adds an additional three years to both the two-year and five-year warranties, providing a total of five years and eight years of coverage, respectively. This extended warranty ensures that you can enjoy your machine for years to come without worrying about costly repairs.
Trade-Ins
Check and see if your sewing machine dealer also offers trade-ins for your old machines. If you have an older Bernina machine that you no longer use, you can trade it in for the purchase of a new machine. Many customers have a sentimental attachment to their old machines, but trading them in can help offset the cost of a new machine and ensure that your old machine gets a new home where it will be used and appreciated.
Overall, Bernina machines are built to last and come with excellent warranties and support. By choosing a Bernina machine and purchasing from a dealer, you can rest assured that you are making a wise investment in a high-quality machine that will provide you with years of sewing enjoyment.
Source
Watch the video here