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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: pretnichols
Date: 12-31-2005, 09:20 PM (1 of 6)
Does anyone have the Pfaff 2124 or 2144? Viking SE 300/400?

Okay, I visited another sewing store today. They specialize in Pfaff machines, and of course showed me how they all work. I liked them all, but if I were to purchase one, the Pfaff 2124 was the one I would have to choose, unless I win the lottery! :re: They are also a Viking/Husky store, and my real goal was to compare prices on the SE300 or SE400, which I have been looking at in Joanne's. HOwever, they don't sell them. They really pushed the Viking Designer 1 as a comparison to the Pfaff 2144. Their lower models were the Rose or Iris? My true goal was to purchase an embroidery machine, but these are all combo machines.

I know I'm not comparing Apples to Apples any longer. I am in such a quandry. Besides 10 hrs of training on the machine itself, the sewing store offers 20 yrs of equipment support (life of the warranty), plus they have clubs & classes that you can participate in for a nominal fee. Joanne's only offers 3 classes of training on the machine, but has said that they'll answer questions as long as they have the models in the store.

I really am leary about spending $2000 - $5000 for a machine at this time. Yet, if I go with the Viking 300 model, because it is a little cheaper at this time, will I be sorry later! Big Sigh! :bang: :coffee:

I'll keep looking until I figure it out. I'm just looking for some additional thoughts/comments.

All are welcome and thanks for reading my "venting"!

Peggy :bang:
Peggy

So little time, sew much to do...........
User: pretnichols
Member since: 10-16-2005
Total posts: 342
From: paroper
Date: 12-31-2005, 09:53 PM (2 of 6)
Vent anytime you want. Buying any kind of appliance right now (sewing machines included) takes a lot of considerations. THere are just so many options. Keep your eye on the goal though. Set your financial limit and keep in mind what you intend to do with the machine and in what amounts....you'll find the key to the machine will be in that. What will you use the machine for primarily? Sewing garments, home dec, embroidery, quilting, etc and in what percentages. What can you honestly afford to spend and still have money to buy the accessories you need? Go from there. The highest dollar machine may honestly not be the best one for your priorities (then again, it might).
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: bethy
Date: 12-31-2005, 11:19 PM (3 of 6)
I don't own either model, but here are a few things to consider: First of all, if you know you are going to want a fancier machine later on then be sure to ask your dealer what your options will be with each machine. Do they retain a very good resale value? Is there room to grow within the brand you are looking at, or would you rather switch brands anyway? I have been very seriously looking at one of the Viking platinum models and can tell you that Viking makes a fantastic machine for garment making: Their buttonholes are awesome. Pfaff might be where you want to go if you are more into quilting though, as they have the dual feed feature. And keep in mind what type of sewing projects you find inspiring. If you are interested in learning certain techniques in the future, your dealer might have some insight into conveniences or features one machine or the other might have to offer in that direction. Both machines are well deserving of your loyalty.
Best wishes,
Bethy
User: bethy
Member since: 12-30-2005
Total posts: 9
From: DorothyL
Date: 01-01-2006, 09:43 AM (4 of 6)
If you are considering a Pfaff ask the dealer about re-boxed machines. These have been used to teach dealers how to teach you about the machines. I got quite a deal on my serger that way. Sometimes you might have to wait a while to get it, I guess, but mine was there in less than a week. They have the same warranty and training as any other Pfaff.
Dorothy
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002
Total posts: 3883
From: chris b
Date: 01-01-2006, 11:16 AM (5 of 6)
I just got a 2170 last week which is the new TOL to replace the 2144. The prices on the 2144 should be really good right now and it can be upgraded internally to the machine I just bought for thousands less. My dealer had the one she had left for $3699 as opposed to the price of the 2170 which was much more. I'm really enjoying it. This isn't my first Pfaff embroidery machine so the transition isn't too hard for me but sinc ethis is your first machine I think you can't go wrong with a dealer who will give you that much support.

The best thing I can tell you is that we have to get over that problem we have about spending mney on ourselves! If you want it and you aren't putting your household into financial ruin buying, get the one you want!

If you have any questions about the 2144 I can try to answer you. I'm still running training wheels so don't expect miracles! :wink:
Pfaff 2170,Pfaff 7570,Elna 945
Singer 301A,Singer Redeye,Singer 15 HC
Simplicity 2/3/4
Pfaff Creative 3-D digitizing,3-D Fabric Decorator
Pfaff PCDMac2.2
StitchBunnyPro,FlutterWhumper
Embird,Studio,cross stitch,
EQ5....and adding all the time!
User: chris b
Member since: 01-10-2001
Total posts: 109
From: Tom Land
Date: 01-01-2006, 03:39 PM (6 of 6)
You will be happy with either machine. However, the amount and quality of dealer support means a lot. Jo Anns is not a Viking dealer. You are dealing with a dealer that is leasing space from Jo Anns. You said that they will help as long as the model is current. What happens if for some reason you can't sew for a year or so. When you go back for refresher help are they going to tell you "I'm sorry, thats' not a current model". When a reputable dealer sells a machine you own that dealer as long as you own the machine.
Have fun or don't do it, Tom
User: Tom Land
Member since: 09-21-2005
Total posts: 514
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