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The Sew What’s New Archive
This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and
quilting message board “Sew What’s New,” which was
retired in August 2007. It is being provided by
“Sew What’s Up,”
which serves as the new home for many members of “Sew What’s New.”
From: Martini
Date: 08-31-2005, 07:09 PM (1 of 19)
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I have only been sewing for two years. I have only made a few costumes so far. The more I sew, the more I love it. Yesterday, I walked into a local store to check out the sewing machines. This store only sells Bernina. The current machine I have is a cheap low Kenmore which only cost me $125. The salesperson in store was a very sweet old lady. She showed me the Bernina 153 and demonstrated every single feature for me. I was totally impressed (especially that I am such a naive person in sewing and all) This machine is like magical to me. So next thing I knew, I was writing a check for $2145... I don't know what came to me, spending half of my shopping savings on a sewing machine. When I went home, I went online to do some searching on this machine, trying to figure out that if I should feel guilty and silly or I should be pleased with myself for this investment. However, I couldn't find much info at all. So all you experienced seamtress here, could you shed me some light please? Did I pay too much for this machine? Did I do the right thing?? Much appreciate... Martini
Artistic 180E w/Editor |
User: Martini
Member since: 08-31-2005 Total posts: 5 |
From: esrun3
Date: 08-31-2005, 09:32 PM (2 of 19)
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Martini, I don't know anything about Bernina's so can't help you there but wanted to welcome you to SWN! I'm sure someone will be along soon with some information for you. They are a great group of people here!
Lyn
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User: esrun3
Member since: 12-02-2004 Total posts: 2345 |
From: Chrysantha
Date: 08-31-2005, 09:34 PM (3 of 19)
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Dealers prices vary a bit..(depends on the stock, what they sell and who you are...dealers like repeat business and give 'perks' to regular customers) If YOU think you made a wrong decision. Then take it back. If you LIKE the machine and all it's functions, then keep it. When making a large purchase like a car, sewing/embroidery machine, computer, etc...I like to check out models first...online and in the stores, to make sure I know what I want and what I'm getting. I check recall lists, etc. That way I KNOW I'm doing the right thing.... Go with your gut instinct... Chrys
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User: Chrysantha
Member since: 09-06-2002 Total posts: 2414 
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From: grandmasue
Date: 08-31-2005, 10:55 PM (4 of 19)
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Spending that much money on a machine is a very scarey thing to do but as the owner of 3 Bernina's I do feel you are getting what you paid for. Other ladies that I sew with think I am crazy for spending that kind of money on a machine, yet they constantly comment on how quiet, how well my machine sews, what neat features it has, etc. etc. I got my first Bernina in 1972, it is new selling for more than what I originally paid for it. But I also sew full-time and definately get my money' worth out of a machine, you have to decide for yourself if this is a purchase that fits your needs.
Grandma Sue
------------ At the end I am not showing up at my grave all pretty and well preserved...I am coming in sliding, yelling "What a ride!" |
User: grandmasue
Member since: 10-26-2004 Total posts: 138 
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From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 09-01-2005, 12:32 PM (5 of 19)
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Martini, I have not owned a Bernina, but I do know a lot about them.. They have two nicknames, Cadillac of sewing machines, and Workhorse... They truly are top of the heap on quality, built for sewing, sewing, and more sewing.. I guarantee you will not wear this machine out.. It is a lot of money, but if you can afford just to write a check for it, you must be able to afford it.. I have a friend who is a dealer and they never have complaints.. Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022 
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From: Martini
Date: 09-02-2005, 12:50 PM (6 of 19)
Thank you so very much, all you great ladies. Esrun3 is right, people here are really very friendly and helpful.  I indeed is very much impressed with this Bernina. Imagine a person who has only been riding a bicycle all her life, is presented with a Porsche in front of her. Every little thing, even the power window is magical to her.... That's how I feel about this machine. My hesitation was just that, it might not really have to cost me 2000 dollar to have a machine as amazing. I could actually just spend half and can get a machine with similar features. Afterall, I don't need quilting features at all. I found on ebay this model only goes for half the price (lightly used). Given the current situation over in New Orlean, I feel bad to spend so much money on one machine. So I have decided to take it back to the shop, get an used one on ebay. I will donate the balance I get back to Redcross. At the end of the day, that is the money I have already spent, why wouldn't I spend it more worthyly instead?  At the same time, I don't have to feel guilty not having enough qualification as a seamstress to own a $2000 sewing machine.  Thanks again and hugs to everyone Martini Martini
Artistic 180E w/Editor |
User: Martini
Member since: 08-31-2005 Total posts: 5 |
From: Kylnne2
Date: 09-02-2005, 08:26 PM (7 of 19)
Martini, what a wonderful thing you are doing. I hope you will be blessed in many ways for your thoughtfullness and generosity. I hope you get a machine you deserve and love and when you do, please get back with us and tell us all about it. 
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User: Kylnne2
Member since: 07-10-2004 Total posts: 629 |
From: glamma1940
Date: 09-02-2005, 08:37 PM (8 of 19)
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Martini I worked in a Bernina store selling machines all of last year before I had to move to AZ. You couldn't ask for a better machine. The 153 is a great sewing machine---one of the best models. I own a 180E & a 200E & I would rather set my hair on fire than part with them. I did let my daughter use the 180E & that was a great sacrifice. LOL. All of the Bernina machines have the same strength motor. The difference in them is all the whistles & bells. The more stitches & extras, the more expensive the machine. I wouldn't ever own anything but a Bernina, they are wonderful. ENJOY!!! If they offer classes (they should) be sure to take them. You will learn all about your machine & everything it can do. Whoops!!! didn't see your amended message where you took it back & are getting a used machine---I admire you for sending the balance of the cost of new machine/used machine to Katrina fund---Maybe you can find a used Bernina!!! Good Luck |
User: glamma1940
Member since: 08-11-2005 Total posts: 21 |
From: paroper
Date: 09-03-2005, 12:17 AM (9 of 19)
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The 153 is a wonderful machine! It has the good hook system for sewing, 5mm stitch width. My 1530 is it's great great (maybe more) grandmother. I would think that several of these machine may have been traded by quilters who went to the new 440 with the stitch regulator...it has drawn a lot of attention. The 440 is a pretty close relative of your 153. I paid right at $3000 for my machine in 1992, have several thousand hours of professional sewing on it and could sell it today for between $1000 and $1200 which, considering its age, is not all that bad. It has been cleaned only once in its long life (not recommended..couldn't be without it.) I can still get parts for it, except the mother board which can be rebuilt. Bernina is known to back their products for at least 20 years. I think your reason for taking the machine back is a good one and I think your dealer will admire you for it. Why not ask if there have been any good 153 trade-ins? I wouldn't be surprised if there have been. Another nice little group of machines that Bernina makes are in the 230/240 line. I'm not sure how many of those machines there are but they are the first sewing machines that Bernina actually makes now. They start new in the $699 range. They have the same hook system and stitch width as the others and many quilters absolutely LOVE them. The only disadvantage I can see in these machines is in the fact that they are considered to be a little shorter in the throat...3/4 machines. They are also a little lighter in physical weight. You might want to check out these machines too. If you purchase a Bernina machine from a dealer be sure and ask about training classes. I've received training even on used machine through them! pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 09-03-2005, 03:00 PM (10 of 19)
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Martini, Bless your generous Heart.. I really admire your reason for returning the machine.. You deserve to find a really good used one.. Best of luck, my friend.. 
Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022
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From: MaryW
Date: 09-04-2005, 10:02 AM (11 of 19)
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Martini, welcome to Sew Whats New. I admire your principles.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542 
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From: icetbear
Date: 09-10-2005, 05:32 PM (12 of 19)
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Welcome Martini What a admirable plan. It's always nice to read about such ideas. I have 28 year old Bernina Record that has given me excellent service. I just brought it back from having it tuned up. I did at one time sew just about everything for us to wear, play with, cover windows etc. My new Singer Quantum however has been a disaster. I finally took it to my Bernina tech who has jimmied it so it doesn't jam every other stitch. The Quantum Series hasn't been the best of Singer products at least for some of us ;( You'll find the folks here are warm and friendly. Take care, good luck in your search. NanaBear finally able to sew again |
User: icetbear
Member since: 09-04-2004 Total posts: 66 |
From: bridesmom
Date: 09-11-2005, 06:01 AM (13 of 19)
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Martini, bless you for your thoughtfullness. I only have a little warning for you, I would hesitate to purchase a machine on ebay as if you get it at your local store, you get a warranty. Getting it through ebay - well, you are taking a chance that it may not work or it may not be exactly as described and then you are stuck plus you will pay an arm and a leg for shipping. I almost went for an ebay one, then after talking it over with some of the people on this site, decided to go for one at a local store and get the lessons/warranty/service.
Laura
Tickled pink with my Innovis 4000D |
User: bridesmom
Member since: 01-21-2004 Total posts: 2026 |
From: Martini
Date: 09-19-2005, 07:16 PM (14 of 19)
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Hi everyone I took the machine back about two weeks ago and am still waiting for the shop to refund me. I brought the machine back to the shop but they told me they had to wait until the check is cleared before refunding. One week later, I called again, this time the person responsible for refunding in on vocation..So at this moment, I am still waiting...  Anyway, while I am waiting, I found this other owner who was selling her 170E for $800. I drove down to her home and bought the machine from her. I came home thinking I 've got a great deal. (Its a $1300 difference of the 153 I paid for, and that also means when the shop refunds me, I will have $1300 up for donation! =) ) Anyway, after unpacking, I found that there is no software/cable... included at all.  I have no idea if it is not supposed to be included in 170E original package or the lady didn't pack everything into the package for me.So its time again for me to ask for your advices. My embrodaries needs are basically just monograph and some bowling patterns embro (my husband loves bowling). In this case, what software do you suggest I should get for these kind of embrodaries? I couldn't even find much info on model 170E on the internet. So I dont even know what I am missing or what I need to get...  I am so lost...  Please shed me some light!!! Martini
Martini
Artistic 180E w/Editor |
User: Martini
Member since: 08-31-2005 Total posts: 5 |
From: thisNthat
Date: 09-22-2005, 02:52 AM (15 of 19)
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Hello Matini - I too just purchased a new machine (not a Bernina though) and needed some assistance. I emailed the manufacturer and was put thru to a nice CS lady who provided me the answers I was looking for. I am somewhat of a web search expert (so my friends tell me) I tried to research this for you, but was unable to find anything much. I suggest going to Bernina's website and emailing them thru their contact us link and ask your questions there. I would specifically ask for a user manual if you don't have one already (sometimes they have them in Adobe format and it would be FREE this way) and for a SPEC sheet on the machine model you purchased. You might also find a user manual on eBay if you do a search. Again, not too sure if you need one of them. HAVE FUN WITH YOUR MACHINE!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I hope this helps!! Lori
Euro-Pro 9105 & Kenmore Elite Ergo3 |
User: thisNthat
Member since: 07-31-2005 Total posts: 10 |
From: paroper
Date: 09-22-2005, 08:05 AM (16 of 19)
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www.berninaUSA.com This is the US Bernina homepage. You need to simply register to look anywhere on the site and there is a lot there (No charge for registry.) Below is the message board site address. Once you have registered with BerninaUSA you can post on this site. You'll find a lot of information already posted about the Bernina machines, although there isn't quite as much about the 170 as some of the other machines. Many of the people on the site have had several of the Bernina machines and I'm sure they can help you with whatever you need to know. The message board is located under the header "Community" in the white box portion of the site headings. http://www.berninausa.com/browse2_messageboards.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=25 34374302025095&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395181831&bmUID=1111840319781 pam
Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch) |
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004 Total posts: 3775 |
From: angiesews
Date: 10-16-2005, 04:51 PM (17 of 19)
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Martini, Did you call the seller and ask about the software/cables? maybe it was just an oversight! Meanwhile, I too recently purchased a 170e. It arrives tomorrow! I'll let you know what is in the "box", if you still need to know. Mine is supposed to be all original accessories, etc. I'm pretty excited. I originally had a 200e, but it wasn't the right machine for me so it was returned. I did love the stitch quality of that Bernina machine though! So I've sat on it for a year or more and finally found a used one in my price range (but not as good a deal as yours! wow). I waited for the 170e instead of it's "big brother" the 180e because I really wanted that CB hook system. I think it's the best of both worlds! I hope you're enjoying your machine! angie peace & extra sewing time for all,
angie |
User: angiesews
Member since: 10-16-2005 Total posts: 1 
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From: gm23237
Date: 11-11-2005, 05:31 PM (18 of 19)
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My first was a Kenmore and I used that until it died. The next was a Singer and I was not happy with it from the start so I returned it and bought a Brother. The most I ever paid for a machine was $289.00 and they all did everything I wanted. As important as a good sewing machine is, I also found that how you set up your sewing area makes a big difference. I now finally have a sewing room/computer room. My sewing machine cabinet was less than $100.00 at WalMart but it is nice. I hae my serger very close by on a cabinet of it's own. My chair is a high back office chair that rolls, so I can switch from sewing to serger quickly. I found a tip on a site that to keep your pedals from moving use a mouse pad under the pedal, it works! Sewing is cheaper than therapy and I think that is why I started sewing to begin with lol..... |
User: gm23237
Member since: 11-03-2003 Total posts: 145 
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From: Tom Land
Date: 11-12-2005, 07:02 PM (19 of 19)
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Martini, as someone has aleady said prices vary from dealer to dealer for a number of reasons. I do not feel this is the proper forum for me to give opinions of machines since I am a dealer of several brands. I will say that the Bernina 153 is a good machine and that if your dealer has classes and on site servicing you did not over pay.You should enjoy that machine for many years. You jumped in with all fours. Don't beat youself up over something you probably can't change. Instead embrace the adventures you can now have with your new machine.
Have fun or don't do it, Tom
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User: Tom Land
Member since: 09-21-2005 Total posts: 514 |
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