The Sewing Place

Machine Talk => Sewing Machines => Topic started by: Puzzler on May 27, 2022, 17:51:06 PM

Title: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Puzzler on May 27, 2022, 17:51:06 PM
I popped into a sewing machine shop today to check out the Bernina 475. I am after a 5.5mm max stitch width. I was surprised that a machine costing £1,500 featured 5.5 so had to see it.

The same shop sold me a Juki DX7 which I didn’t really use properly until lockdown. I had all sorts of issues with it. The engineer actually drove out and collected it to see what was going on. He couldn’t replicate the problem I was encountering and he declared the machine perfect. I tried to get on with it but despite many peeps waxing lyrical about this machine, I didn’t like it and it was sold.

Same salesman showed me the Bernie and it sound okay on a slow speed but once he increased it, the machine was like a lumbering lorry. I didn’t even bother to have a go on it myself. He confirmed what I already knew. These machines are not like they used to be. So too, according to the salesman, are the Janomes and Brothers. They don’t sell Pfaff but I expect he’d have the same opinion about them. The best machine he could recommend was the one I had sold and I certainly won’t be buying another one. He then showed me a Britannia for less than £600 and thought that would do me. He said it was better than many other higher spec machines. I wasn’t impressed with the stitching or the buttonhole (which he deemed wonderful) so won’t be opting for that either.

Apart from the stitch width - and I would compromise on a 7mm - I want a needle up/down button and a knee lift. Good harp space would be nice. I am primarily sewing clothes, the odd soft furnishing item and would like to have a go at bag making some day. I may do some more quilting/appliqué too.

What I took away today was there isn’t a decent machine out there for me, unless I want to spend 2.5K+. Can’t afford anything like that. I was hoping to spend a grand or less because I don’t need so many bells & whistles nor 650 stitches.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: BrendaP on May 27, 2022, 19:11:40 PM
What about a reconditioned older model.  Not really vintage, just something solid and well made such as a Bernina from a few years ago that someone has traded in for a ££££££ model.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Puzzler on May 27, 2022, 19:30:29 PM
I already have two of those. One is a 9mm which I don’t care to use for dressmaking. The other is an old, but not quite vintage, mechanical. It doesn’t have needle up/down or knee lift.  I know people argue that one doesn’t need a knee lift but I came to depend on it after decades of using it. I also have a Singer 221. Would really like a more modern machine but they all appear to have drawbacks.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Celia on May 28, 2022, 09:30:18 AM
I think I know what you mean, I have worked with sewing machines for quite a long time and have both used and at times taught lots of different makes and models.

It is really hard to find a good machine aimed at the mainly dressmaking market, at a reasonable price.

I have not been impressed with some of the newer Berninas.

As far as machines are concerned the love of my life is my Janome HD9 previously the 1600 BUT this is only a straight stitch machine.  Last year in a fit of I deserve a treat I bought a Janome 6700, I do love this machine but my idea was to sell all of the other and have this one only. 

When it came to it I could not part with the HD9, it is still way better on a day to day basis than the 6700 for straight stitch , it sews without adjustment on anything from chiffon up to upholstery weight.  The 6700 will do it but it takes much more fiddling about and checking swapping plates etc. also the quality of the feet is way better on the HD9.


So I did not achieve  much as I still have too many machines, Janome HD9, 6700, Bernina 350 and Husqvarna Tooaz 40. 

The Bernina 350 is a lovely machine which has the feel of the older Berninas but of course it is a very small machine

I do admit that when I am dressmaking I use my overlocker for an awful lot of what I make.

Hope some of this ramble helps.  Do let us know how you progress
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Iminei on May 28, 2022, 09:40:02 AM
Hello @Puzzler  ... Welcome Home (I hope that doesnt sound too patronising)

Im sorry to hear youve still not found the machine of your dreams ... Maybe a visit to a show will give you more scope, @PBear  swears by a lil sewing shop in Southbourne (??) where she bought her Atelier ... I dont know which other makes they stock but strongly think that a show might be the best idea as shops can only stock a limited range.

What have you been doing with your time, sewing wise? Are you up for joining in with the Quilted Jacket that many of us, Lightsiders and Darksiders (if I can figure out the putting it together bit) alike are thinking of making?

Whatever Its lovely to see you back xxx
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: KayK on May 28, 2022, 16:47:38 PM
@Puzzler
I feel your pain!
I too had the dreaded Juki DX7 - it went back after a week, hated it.  I swapped it for the Bernina 475, which although pretty decent for the money, was too small and a wee bit fussy (the bobbin was  devil to put in the case) - a friend bought it as she has its very big brother and she takes it to classes.  I then went mad and purchased a Janome 6700P (same as @Celia)and have to say I am not in love with this machine either!  The 9mm is really too wide for me, although I really love the knee lift, needle up down and large harp area.  I love my Juki (straight stitch only  TL98p) which does what is says on the tin, and I have a little 3 series Bernina to take to classes, purchased second hand which does the trick, but I would not like long sessions on it!

I have also been using (and I know a lot of people out there positively hate them) a 1960's Singer Touch and Sew - this is all metal, made in Germany, cost me £30 and sews beautifully!  Wonderful neat straight stitches, can use the piping foot right up to the piping, and does free motion well too!

However, I have seen, and am considering a 'Jack' small industrial machine - this does straight stitch, zig-zag, free motion, up to 5.5mm.  Is all metal bodied, has a direct drive motor (not one of those huge noisy things that hangs underneath) and doesn't need you to oil it, as it has its own closed sump)  It has a knee lift, a needle up/down and it comes in a table!

Jack machine (http://https://konsew.com/industrial-sewing-machine/jack-industrial-machine/jack-20u-93z-zig-zag-direct-drive-industrial-sewing-machine)

Not a bad price either - I've watched a couple of YouTube videos, and seems pretty good if you don't want bells and whistles and bossiness!
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Acorn on May 28, 2022, 17:01:18 PM
There's a colon missing from the link above - this is what it should be https://konsew.com/industrial-sewing-machine/jack-industrial-machine/jack-20u-93z-zig-zag-direct-drive-industrial-sewing-machine   :thumb:
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Iminei on May 28, 2022, 17:33:45 PM
Me Miss, Please Miss ... Hand waving furiously in the air

The 9mm is really too wide for me ..... I am after a 5.5mm max stitch width.

Whats the fuss about the stitch width???

Surely if you have a 9mm you can do a 5.5 mm, but not if you only have a 4.5 mm ???

Someone please enlighten me ???
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Puzzler on May 29, 2022, 08:11:01 AM
Re stitch width: For the type of sewing I do, mainly dressmaking, I want the control a 5.5mm gives me. I know you do great piecing on your 9mm machine, Imi, but do you not need to change the stitch plate, use a different foot or change the needle position? Having tried out a 9mm, I would need to buy a straight stitch foot plate and a different foot which would cover half the feed dogs (correct me if I am wrong, Celia) to achieve more control when, say, top stitching a garment made from viscose fabric. The 9mm is ace for decorative stitching and I suspect would be good for heavier materials like canvas if I want to make a substantial bag, for instance. For every day sewing 5.5 is my preference.

@KayK, the Jack looks interesting. The knee lift appears to control the width of the zigzag. I have a friend who had a Brother industrial, I think, with the same feature. It takes some getting used to. I want the knee lift to raise and lower the foot. I also loved the feature on my previous Bernina when you could tap your heel on the foot pedal and raise or lower the needle. The one feature I did like on the Juki was when the foot would pop up when you stopped sewing, allowing you to pivot. I found I didn’t need or use the knee lift when using that machine. I gave the Juki far more than a week’s trial. I really did try to love it but couldn’t get on with it. I had a fiddle with the bobbin case of the Bernina 475 and I know exactly what you mean. I was also surprised the bobbin itself was plastic, albeit not that cheap clear plastic that Juki, Brother, Janome et al use.

@Celia, I love a straight stitch machine but although Janome and Juki make a good one, they are soooo expensive. My featherweight is brilliant and I wouldn’t mind sourcing a metal bodied 201 for heavier sewing to go along with it. Most of my sewing is straight stitching. I use an overlocker for finishing seams.

@Iminei, I am on a mission to make some desperately needed clothing. So much of what I wear is old, tatty, stained and just too big. Quilted garments are not my thing, I am afraid, so won’t be participating in this particular challenge. Boxy garments don’t suit me either and I was advised years ago to avoid geometric patterns. Looks like a fun project though and I will look forward to seeing the results of others.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Celia on May 29, 2022, 10:33:56 AM
You are correct about the need to change plates feet etc @Puzzler on the 9.00 mm machines especially if you want to to stitch on various fabrics after overlockering them.

 This is a technique I use a lot, also the reason that I am not quite so in love with my 6700 although for I am not sorry I have it.  I really haven’t tried top stitch on my small Bernina, I have a feeling it would cope quite well as the foot etc is very small but sturdy. Just the harp width is not great. I haven’t used it in a while,  so I might try it soon and will report back.

@KayK I  the idea of an industrial but somehow the look puts me off and I do move my machines around the house quite a bit.  What has put you off the 6700? I know you were quite keen on it.?
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Bumblebuncher on May 29, 2022, 11:36:50 AM
I am confused too (sits with @Iminei ).
When you say stitch width do you mean the width of the stitch?  Or are we talking something else here which I have managed to miss completely  :laughing:
I can adjust my machine  to whatever stitch width I want it to be for stitches or move the needle to whatever position width wise I want it to be at.  I really feel I am missing something!
I feel the need for a dunces hat emoji
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Puzzler on May 29, 2022, 12:26:33 PM
I can adjust my machine  to whatever stitch width I want it to be

You can have your zigzag or other decorative stitch as wide as the feed dogs and your presser foot will allow.

The photo illustrates the difference between a presser foot for a 9mm vs a 5.5mm (or perhaps my Bernina 801 is even narrower - haven’t measure it but definitely not more than 5.5).

Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Celia on May 29, 2022, 12:32:25 PM
I think the problem with the wider width machines is more to do with the way they feed the fabric, especially fine fabrics. Some machines come with different plates to help to alleviate this problem and for some machines you can buy them separately but it still doesn’t make them the same as a 5.5mm.

Not sure if I have explained that properly but hope it might help.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Bodgeitandscarper on May 29, 2022, 12:57:34 PM
That Jack machine looks lovely, I'd love to try one, but no chance of finding one anywhere near me!
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Helen M on May 29, 2022, 12:58:25 PM
I'm a bit confused as well. My machine is a Janome mechanical (has had numerous names over the yearsand is described by many as a workhorse) and is I think 7mm. I have done dressmaking with heavy and very light fabrics without any problems. For a light fabric I reduce the pressure on the foot.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Stitchalot on May 29, 2022, 13:35:25 PM
Me Miss, Please Miss ... Hand waving furiously in the air

The 9mm is really too wide for me ..... I am after a 5.5mm max stitch width.

Whats the fuss about the stitch width???

Surely if you have a 9mm you can do a 5.5 mm, but not if you only have a 4.5 mm ???

Someone please enlighten me ???
The main issue with a 9mm machine is that the feed dogs are further apart and changing the needle plate or the foot doesn’t help. It means when stitching close to the edge of the fabric there is less control and traction with the feed dogs. It’s also much more tricky to stitch tight curves. I use a 9mm machine for most things, but there are times when my old 5.5mm machine has to come out to get the control and accuracy needed for intricate things.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Stitchalot on May 29, 2022, 13:43:06 PM
The main issue with a 9mm machine is that the feed dogs are further apart and changing the needle plate or the foot doesn’t change that. It means when stitching close to the edge of the fabric there is less control and traction with the feed dogs. It’s also much more tricky to stitch tight curves. I use a 9mm machine for most things, but there are times when my old 5.5mm machine has to come out to get the control and accuracy needed for intricate things.

Sorry - tried to slightly modify above post and it started a new one!
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Celia on May 29, 2022, 13:49:37 PM
The main issue with a 9mm machine is that the feed dogs are further apart and changing the needle plate or the foot doesn’t help. It means when stitching close to the edge of the fabric there is less control and traction with the feed dogs. It’s also much more tricky to stitch tight curves. I use a 9mm machine for most things, but there are times when my old 5.5mm machine has to come out to get the control and accuracy needed for intricate things.

A much better description than mine :loveit:
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Surest1tch on May 29, 2022, 21:26:06 PM
I'm seriously tempted by that Jack but I really daren't. I've got too many machines as it is (if that's ever possible) including a lockstitch industrial!
I've spent a lot of hours over the last few days trying to move the furniture and make more space in my sewing room hoping that would give me some motivation to get back in there as it tends to get used as a dumping ground much to my chagrin. There's a lot more shifting to do yet but my biggest problem is where to put my machines and deciding if I should put a lock on the door to keep dumpers out  :rant:.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: KayK on May 31, 2022, 20:38:17 PM
Well, the Janome has been sold, and now I really don't know what to do!  Thinking of doing nothing, but having the straight stitch Juki serviced and the foot pedal looked at, as it is hard to keep a steady speed.  Will stick with the diddy Bernina, and will put the Jack to the back of my mind!
So, @Puzzler - I don't know what to do either!
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: annierose on June 03, 2022, 13:36:06 PM
Hello, I don't often post, but hope this might be helpful. I have just bought a Janome atelier 7, which goes up to a 9mm stitch width. List price is £1500.
I am a dressmaker, and it has some lovely features. If you've seen the thread above, you'll know it was just the needle threader that is faulty and needs sorting out - the machine itself is a joy to use.
There are 2 cheaper models in the range, but I don't know what width they go up to.
The very helpful shop that I bought from pointed out that the 7 has all the features that dressmakers need, and the 'top of the range' machine is only worth the extra grand for embroidery.
I tried the equivalent Juki that the engineer said was, in his opinion, stronger and easier to service, but I did not like it at all.
Hope you find something that suits!
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Puzzler on June 05, 2022, 08:24:26 AM
I have just bought a Janome atelier 7, which goes up to a 9mm stitch width.

Alas, it is a 9mm machine which I definitely do not want. I think I will soon be sorted but thank you anyway. The Juki equivalent that I had bought originally was 7mm.

I read somewhere that most machines today are being purchased by quilters rather than dressmakers. This must account for the number of quilter’s edition sewing machines on the market and must effect the decision to include wider stitch widths.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: annierose on June 05, 2022, 14:27:52 PM
Sorry, I misunderstood! I have re-read.
I don't do such tricky work (original mild clumsiness and later arthritis mean I stick to the basics). The machine does have a 'straight needle plate' which I believe is for such situations, but I am still getting to know it. It also has, to my delight a 'curve stitch'. Indeed, my advancing arthritis was one reason for getting a more 'steady' machine.
I have become aware that the 'craft' side of sewing has become more popular - it is reflected in the fabric shops as well
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Iminei on June 05, 2022, 14:40:11 PM
Yes, I was delighted to find the straight stitch plate when I got The Splurgess home !!  :D
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Puzzler on June 05, 2022, 15:22:15 PM
Sorry, I misunderstood! I have re-read.
I don't do such tricky work (original mild clumsiness and later arthritis mean I stick to the basics)…. Indeed, my advancing arthritis was one reason for getting a more 'steady' machine.

No worries!

It’s nice to know these machines provide accessibility as we age and struggle with arthritis etc.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Celia on June 09, 2022, 14:05:47 PM
I said I would report back on top stitching over an overlocker seam on fairly thick stretch fabric with the Bernina 350 can I just say I spent 20 minutes unpicking it and re stitching on my Janome straight stitch machine :laughing:

I think it would be fine on a thinner fabric, also if I didn’t have the SS machine I might not be too critical but the difference in the look of the stitch was very real.

Non of this helps me get rid of any of my machines, maybe one day. :thinking:
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: KayK on June 10, 2022, 09:41:49 AM
The straight stitch Juki has gone off to 'Sewing Machine Steve' - I have asked for the speedy foot pedal to be looked at, also to see if the foot lift can go any higher,  a new light bulb to be fitted, the feed dog up/down lever to be un-stiffened (it takes me all my strength and I have to stand up to shift it!) and a general service, although I always clean and oil my machines regularly.  I am missing it already!

The Bernina has had to act as a stand in, and has done very well, but I am finding it very dinky - DH asked me if it was a toy!!  I am missing the needle up/down and the thread cutter terribly on the Juki and the since sold Janome 6700P (I think that's the only thing I miss on the Janome!)

I have decided to donate two of my oldies but goodies to Tools With A Mission - they work perfectly but I feel they could be better used, SO I am still in a quandary as to what to do!

Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Puzzler on June 19, 2022, 08:53:33 AM
Well folks, I think I am sorted for the foreseeable. I purchased a lovely, lightly used Bernina 570 which is in pristine condition. It involved a quick flit to Cornwall, rather an extravagance with the cost of fuel now but so worth it. I would have regretted passing this up. I plan to go through the very comprehensive manual today to learn how to work the main functions. I am already accustomed to Bernina features such as the front loading bobbin. The 570 was originally produced with the 5.5 mm feed dogs but a short while later Bernina brought out a new version that had 9mm feed dogs and a couple of other things like dual feed. This seemed like the perfect fit as it ticked all the boxes including knee lift and the ability to tap the back of the foot pedal to raise the needle. A few added bonuses came with it such as the BSR gadget, handy for free motion quilting. It just might tempt me back to the dark side.  ;). The owner included other things such as a straight stitch plate, extra bobbins and a lovely cover she had made for it. The machine doesn’t include Bernina foot 10, the edge stitch foot, which I use frequently. Happily, I have a foot 10 from another Bernina that fits so am well pleased.  :D
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Ellabella on June 19, 2022, 09:24:57 AM
Sounds like a very satisfactory conclusion @Puzzler , may it give you many years of sterling service.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Cazlyn on June 19, 2022, 10:02:25 AM
Sound like a great purchase, enjoy playing today.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Celia on June 19, 2022, 11:10:09 AM
Well done @Puzzler i am certain that will be a really good machine for you, I have only test driven a BSR foot but I remembering being  fascinated by it when they first came out.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Ohsewsimple on June 19, 2022, 11:12:36 AM
Enjoy @Puzzler.  Bit of a trip, hopefully no too far down, but there would have been carriage to pay for otherwise. 
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Kenora on June 19, 2022, 11:14:45 AM
It was a delight to meet you @Puzzler.  :) I hope you will enjoy the machine as much as I did.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Celia on June 19, 2022, 11:19:29 AM
Oooo that is nice when a machine goes form one TSP home to another  :loveit:
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Ohsewsimple on June 19, 2022, 11:24:50 AM
Ah, it is quite a trek then, knowing where @Kenora is.   :)  Near our family. 
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Elnnina on June 19, 2022, 11:50:46 AM
Lovely purchase Puzzler and I do hope you will be pleased with this machine.

Now if you go looking on the internet you will find something called Mastery Booklets these are for the Bernina machines, so go looking specifically for your model and you can then download these and then work steadily through them at your own pace.  You might find that there is one for the actual machine and another one for the embroidery part, i.e. you can stitch out some samples and then attach to the relevant page in your mastery booklet so you then have a permanent notebook on how you did everything - there is even space for you to ad your own comments. 

Whilst my machine is not the same as yours I have put my pages into the plastic sleeves to save wear and tear, and then into a ring binder - at the time WHSmith's were doing a special offer on these ring binders, and the binders themselves came in different colours.

Now go and have fun with your lovely new machine
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: twopence on June 19, 2022, 13:00:21 PM
I’m afraid Bernina started to publish the workbooks after your machine was released so they do not include your model.
 
Did you do the class in London? If you don’t have the notes from that class I could send you a copy which may help?
 
Kind regards,
 
Hannah Blackbourne
(In the office on a Monday, Wednesday and Thursday)

This is the reply to my query in November last year regarding a workbook for the original 570QE from Hannah at Bernina. She is incorrect to say that workbooks we’re not done for previous machines as I had one for my 2500dct overlocker which was much older.  @Puzzler  if you have this one with the original size bobbing I think I’ve seen it described as the Classic 570QE and it is close to the 475 (?). Although I now have a 770QE (like @Kenora ?) I have decided to keep my 570QE to use in classes as it is a lovely machine. I just need a suitable wheeled case for it now as the Bernina ones are prohibitively expensive. Enjoy your new machine.  :)
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Elnnina on June 19, 2022, 13:24:33 PM
I actually looked on the internet this morning for the Mastery Booklets and I did see that the 570 was listed, so don't give up hope.  The ones I have came from a different site, but the ones I saw this morning I believe were on the Bernina USA site.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Kenora on June 19, 2022, 13:58:10 PM
@Elnnina - the workbooks I have are applicable to all Berninas so I must have a different version again.  -< I've had them for a few years though so perhaps they've changed as new machines have been issued.

@twopence - I bought the 720QE because I wanted to keep the 5.5mm width foot. I prefer it for precision work. I had to order the machine direct from Switzerland as Bernina only make it to special order nowadays. It has most of the features of the 770 but not the dual feed. I've been so happy with it though.  :)
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: realale on June 19, 2022, 14:30:50 PM
Nothing to contribute on the machine side but just to say the answer to your thread question seems to be - Cornwall!!  :laughing:  :laughing:
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Puzzler on June 19, 2022, 14:54:55 PM
I was just looking at the Bernina site @realale and at the bottom of the page it says ‘Where do you want to go from here?’ I’ve already been to Cornwall so who knows where next.  :D

Thank you very much @Elnnina and @twopence for letting me know about the Mastery workbooks. I found one for sewing and it covers a whole range of machines. When it lists 570QE I am not sure if it means the newer one or the old style/classic one that I have. Are there booklets for each individual machine somewhere?

It was so nice to meet another TSPer and put a face to a screen name.

I bought a new surge protector extension lead so the machine has now been fired up, as Imi would say.

Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Gernella on June 19, 2022, 15:11:21 PM
Lovely @Puzzler the chair's not bad either.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Elnnina on June 19, 2022, 16:06:50 PM
Puzzler and Kenora I originally downloaded my Mastery Booklets from byrnesewing.com, and at the time I was able to get one for my Bernina 200 both for the sewing part of this and also the embroidery side of this, and for my Bernina overlockers 1100DA and also another one which covered the big 2500CET which is an overlocker and coversticher.      I was also able to download yet another Mastery booklet and this was for using the Bernina software for the embroidery module - I happen to have the earlier version of software.  All these were free to download, I just had to provide the paper and ink.  It was Morgan on TSP who originally suggested these wonderful Mastery booklets.  So at the time I downloaded these I bought several of the Ring Binders from WHSmith and as they had a special offer on (a good few years ago now) I took full advantage of this.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Kenora on June 19, 2022, 17:31:38 PM
@Puzzler - thanks for the photo. What a co-incidence - we have exactly the same chair! Except yours doesn't have scratch marks all down the back where a certain kitty sharpened her claws. :devil:

@Gernella - it's a lovely, comfortable chair but prone to feline attention as mentioned above! I think she was trying to prove ownership of the room when she first arrived.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: twopence on June 19, 2022, 19:43:18 PM
@Puzzler  the 570QE referred to in the current workbooks available to download from Bernina is the newer version with the wider harp and larger bobbin. It is distinguishable by the fact that it has a stainless steel arm whereas the original one has powder coated metal like the rest of the machine body.  The instructions referring to 570QE will be slightly wrong for your machine due to the differences and I think that looking at instructions for the 475 will be closer to the 570 classic which we have.

Are you signed up to the Bernina newsletter?  You should be able to sign up on the Bernina website.  They’re coming rather patchily at the moment but have free patterns and other info such as a for discounted from your dealer for a month.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Puzzler on June 20, 2022, 07:29:31 AM
@Kenora i noticed your chair and thought it looked familiar. Mine doesn’t have the label where I bought it from but I definitely bought it at the same place. @Gernella the chair is fine for sewing but not for use as a general desk chair. If I sit in it for too long, my back starts to ache. However when sewing I am up and down, running to the iron and cutting table. I have a proper office chair for my work set up, bought for a fiver from my employer when they were flogging chairs with fabric that had seen better days. Which reminds me…still have to recover mine.

@twopence, I will see what the book says about the 475. I saw the link for registering with Bernina and signing up for the newsletter. I will do that shortly.

I remember Morgan telling us about these booklets @Elnnina, and at the time I downloaded one for my Bernina 800 overlocker. Perhaps they originally produced individual booklets for the various machines but now combine the information into one. In any case I have it in my Books app on my iPad so can refer to it there. Not sure it’s worth printing the whole thing. I did go through the manual yesterday and learned a few things. The basic functions like winding a bobbin and threading are familiar to me already so not such a great learning curve. Finding my way through the menu system will be, but it looks fairly intuitive.  It’s all threaded up waiting for me to stitch up a pair of trousers and some pedal pushers (had enough fabric to cut both). I am starting to resent giving up part of my sewing room to accommodated my office equipment for work. The solution would be to just go back and work in the office but that has it’s drawbacks too.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Iminei on June 20, 2022, 07:32:13 AM
Lovely space @Puzzler  ... very clean and tidy.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Puzzler on June 20, 2022, 07:37:08 AM
Lovely space @Puzzler  ... very clean and tidy.

Ha! I zoomed in on the tidy bit. The rest of it is in a 2&8, in need of some major tidying and reorganising. The trouble is, once I reorganise, I can never find what I want.   :S

When are you coming to visit?…
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Acorn on June 20, 2022, 09:49:32 AM
Hehe - I got to be an expert in tidying small sections of rooms when Teams meetings started being a thing!
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Gernella on June 20, 2022, 10:01:51 AM
My last two chairs came from work @Puzzler each time they'd had a refurb and if we wanted we could have.  I felt a right divvy rolling to the car park.  I really wish I'd stayed on because the one I left was fabulous and ergonomic.  I've always been an up and down worker/sewer, which is why I always wore the seat edges off. 
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Celia on June 21, 2022, 08:57:31 AM
I know I must not look at anymore machines BUT I have when reading this thread looked at the new range of Berninas and wonder has anyone tried the Bernina 480.  I do like my Janome 6700 but am finding it’s size and weight a bit of a problem  :thinking: :thinking:
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Iminei on June 21, 2022, 09:00:25 AM
When are you coming to visit?…

When diesel is cheaper than Gold ...
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: keepitsimple on June 21, 2022, 14:22:39 PM
I know I must not look at anymore machines BUT I have when reading this thread looked at the new range of Berninas and wonder has anyone tried the Bernina 480.  I do like my Janome 6700 but am finding it’s size and weight a bit of a problem  :thinking: :thinking:

We have a 480. Mixed feelings. It's an expensive machine, and has a very nice screen interface (once you figure out what the options on it mean).
Sews a nice stitch. Has large bobbins that hold a lot more thread.
It has a 9mm stitch width, and you do need the single needle plate for finer fabrics. Like everything Bernina that isn't cheap. Also any non-Bernina feet you already have won't fit, although you can get an after-market adaptor for them.

Like most 9mm machines, the wider foot means it's less easy to manoeuvre than say a 5.5mm.

However - this one is back at the dealership again. The needle centre position was slightly off to the right. They corrected it, but introduced a different problem in doing so. Still waiting on that....

It also isn't as quiet as some new machines - and IMPORTANT you have to oil the hook EVERY TIME you use it. It uses thinner than standard oil (Mobil Velocite 6 that you can buy in a litre for about the same price as Bernina charge for a tiny bottle ;o)), and it seems to evaporate quickly. If you don't, it'll quickly throw a wobbler. The comment from my dealer was "you can't over oil these" - might be a bit of an exaggeration, but I take their point.

I'm not convinced that in spite of their substantially higher prices, current Berninas are that much better - if at all - than functionally equivalent machines from other makes. But as ever the best thing is to try to get to a dealer and try it for yourself. What someone else thinks is no substitute for that, and your own interface with a machine is a very personal thing.

I may be a bit prejudiced as I'm not a fan of modern domestic machines. The mechanical Berninas of old, together with (some) vintage Elnas  Husqvarnas and Singers are in a totally different class of construction.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Diane on June 21, 2022, 14:39:02 PM
@Celia Is your Janome 6700 not kept in the same place? It's not the type of machine to be moving around and you know it sews beautifully. I would just have it set up where you like sewing the best and leave it there.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Celia on June 21, 2022, 15:32:22 PM
@keepitsimple thankyou so much for your detailed description, I was wondering some of the same things re the newer Berninas, at the moment it is just simple interest as I had never seen this model, I am attracted to a smaller neater machine but do love to have things like the cutter. I did speak to a dealer recently and they were seriously selling the 570, although that has some lovely features it is big and heavy again.  How good are the buttonholes because this is something that is a big moan of mine.

@Diane unfortunately I can only leave one machine in position downstairs and that space is taken by my Babylock overlocker that is even bigger and heavier than the sewing machine.  I keep my 6700 in a converted cocktail cabinet not far from the dinning room table so I juggle the machine and overlocker between the table and the horn table.

I really want to get down to just 2 machines and an overlocker, that is what keeps me looking for that perfect machine. :laughing:

Why is it so difficult to find a good quality solid not too many frills smallish size machine, I can’t be the only person that wants one.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: keepitsimple on June 21, 2022, 18:32:55 PM
The 480 and 570 have a very similar form factor - the 570 being wider as it has a slightly wider throat space and a much higher price.

The B480 weighs 9.5kg, and B570 11.0 kg (according to google !)

To answer your last question (my opinion only) - if there was a demand for such machines, and manufacturers could build them at a price customers would pay, I guess there would be some. The smaller/medium size machines are sold these days mainly on features. I'm sure you know there are better built bigger machines around, but often with more limited features, and there's no denying that tough machines will be heavy ;o(

I recently had to move a couple of machines in storage - one of them a vintage Pfaff 30 would do double duty as a boat anchor....

...meant to add...buttonholes. I guess it very much depends on determining things like stitch density, tension and bar width to suit the exact fabric you are using. Nothing different from other machines there. The Berninas though work electronically. They measure exactly how long each bar is as it is being stitched, and know precisely when to do the end bars. It doesn't depend on the foot hitting a lever, or the machine counting the stitches, so it is very accurate. There are several styles - you can work out the length by placing the button itself against the screen and adjusting it directly on there (no need to keep it in the foot). The gap etc. can also be decided on.
For difficult fabrics/edges etc. you may need to use additional levelling plates to get the best result.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Puzzler on June 21, 2022, 20:11:44 PM
RE: the larger bobbin, I read that most machines are bought by and thus geared toward quilters rather than dressmakers. I guess that's why the more expensive models are 7 and 9mm. If one was piecing and quilting, the larger bobbin would be a bonus. You wouldn't need to change thread colour so often or at all. With dressmaking, I sometime might make a top in an odd colour. I would not want to fill completely even the regular size Bernina bobbin with thread. I might not need that colour again for a while or at all. Thread has become so expensive like everything else. Just a thought.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: keepitsimple on June 21, 2022, 20:37:40 PM
Yup. These are not dressmaking/tailoring machines.  Those users would be much better of with a Singer 201 or even a 66/99/185. Beautiful and simple straight stitch which is all you really need (plus perhaps a serger and a vintage machine like an older Bernina/Elna/Husqvarna if you need easy buttonholes).
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Celia on June 21, 2022, 21:58:13 PM
@keepitsimple thanks again for more information, I understand what you say about if there was a demand the manufacturers would make them but it has always surprised me how many times I have been asked for a machine like I have described by potential customers at exhibitions, I do think it is the profit margin that is relevant.

I am potentially happy with a straight stitch machine and an overlocker until it comes to buttonholes etc the other stitch I use a lot is the 3 step zigzag. 

Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Ouryve on June 21, 2022, 23:46:13 PM
@keepitsimple thanks again for more information, I understand what you say about if there was a demand the manufacturers would make them but it has always surprised me how many times I have been asked for a machine like I have described by potential customers at exhibitions, I do think it is the profit margin that is relevant.

I am potentially happy with a straight stitch machine and an overlocker until it comes to buttonholes etc the other stitch I use a lot is the 3 step zigzag.


I do use that a lot, plus plain zigzag and the lightning stitch and a stretchy overcast stitch. I  inevitably end up repairing overlocker seams on pyjamas and Jane's stretch overcast stitch is brilliant for cuffs - tight and sturdy. Plus her feet are smaller than Bernie's so less fiddly.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Celia on June 22, 2022, 12:05:23 PM
Well yesterday I got the big Janome 6700 out of the cupboard and did some button holes and was pretty impressed, just wish you could make the space in the middle of a buttonhole a bit bigger because some fabrics are so difficult to cut the middle.

Maybe I need to find a trolly or something to move it around  :thinking: right off to investigate
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Kenora on June 22, 2022, 17:49:51 PM
The Bernina 7 Series allow you to change the width of buttonholes from 0.1mm to 2.00mm, but those are heavy machines again.  :sorry:
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: keepitsimple on June 22, 2022, 23:19:01 PM
Well yesterday I got the big Janome 6700 out of the cupboard and did some button holes and was pretty impressed, just wish you could make the space in the middle of a buttonhole a bit bigger because some fabrics are so difficult to cut the middle.
Look up buttonhole cutter on various online sites. It's a narrow chisel - and often a small block/pad underneath comes with it - to do a very neat and clean cut. Much easier and less risk of getting it wrong than with a seam ripper.
Agree that having an option to widen the gap is very useful - I was always told the gap should be related to the thickness of the button. As Kenora commented the Bernina 7 series lets you choose the width, and the B480 you asked about earlier does too.
Title: Re: Where do I go from here?
Post by: Celia on June 23, 2022, 18:40:06 PM
I think all the new 9mm Berninas now have this option, still dreaming  :thinking: