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From: Butterflyrf71
Date: 05-17-2006, 06:42 PM (1 of 29)
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I've been looking into a new machine. I thought I had it picked, and then, wham! I am so confused. I like so many of them! I really want the most for my money, and don't want to spend $600. I am an expereinced sewer, but not an expert sewer. I stick to clothing and home decor, and don't plan to do embroidery. I want all the fancy feet, the blind hems, etc. I'd like to have an electronic one, so that I can avoid setting the machine incorrectly when going from project to project. I go back and forth between projects and I never get the setting the same again unless I mark the machine with colored pens and write everything down. I currently have a White Classic, and I really hate it  Any advice? Is Singer still a good machine, or should I be considering another brand? Brother machines are all over, and the prices seem too low to be true - ??? Thanks. You Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm, and place their trust in you. Isaiah 26:3, AV
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User: Butterflyrf71
Member since: 05-02-2006 Total posts: 257 
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From: esrun3
Date: 05-17-2006, 07:30 PM (2 of 29)
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I'm very happy with my Singer 9940. I believe the 9910 is a little less money and the main difference is the number of decorative stitches. I initially had trouble with it jamming on me but after several times of taking it right back to the store after I picked it up and took it home, I insisted on a new one out of the carton and have had absolutely no trouble since then so.....I think there was something wrong with the bobbin casing. I love the machine, I'm not impressed with their repair work but that could just be the guy at my Singer and not all of them.
Lyn
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User: esrun3
Member since: 12-02-2004 Total posts: 2345 |
From: plrlegal
Date: 05-17-2006, 08:18 PM (3 of 29)
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Butterfly I have a Singer Quantum 3400 that I really love but I also have a Pfaff 2044 Quilt Expression that I love more. Seriously, My Quantum is a great machine and I also have the Singer Futura CE 100 that sews and embroiders. Yes, the Singer top of the lines that the dealers carry and sell are well built machines. I also have a Singer Fashion Mate that was given to me by my husband's boss that is a great older Singer machine that free motions like a dream in spite of my ineptness as doing free motion work. If you're looking at a Singer other than at a Singer dealer, I wouldn't go for it because you probably won't have anywhere to get it serviced or take it back if you have problems with it. That said, if you have a Sears close by, go take a look at the Kenmores. There you will get more bang for your buck but there again, you won't have any support of any kind. Patsy Patsy
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User: plrlegal
Member since: 05-19-2001 Total posts: 318 |
From: LadySloPokes
Date: 05-18-2006, 08:06 AM (4 of 29)
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As you can see in my signature line, I have 2 newer Singer machines, and I absolutely love them! Unfortunately, my little Quantum Decor has now been discontinued, but it wasn't an electronic machine. However, Singer has just introduced a new line of electronic machines, the 7460 series. The prices seem reasonable, and I would definately recommend that you visit a Singer dealer and test drive them. They look great on paper and online, but only a test drive with an autorized dealer will tell the tale! Good Luck in your search, and let us know what you decide on! Cookie 
Cookie
LadySlo...yes am I, but hey, I'm gettin' there! Are you sure it's supposed to look like this?! Proud owner of Singer Quantum Decor 7322 & Singer Quantum Futura CE 200.. "A balanced diet is having chocolate in both hands!" |
User: LadySloPokes
Member since: 08-15-2005 Total posts: 198 
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From: Butterflyrf71
Date: 05-18-2006, 03:28 PM (5 of 29)
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I've tried the new Singer electronic machines, I loved them. But I am confused as to which one. I will most likely buy my machine from Jo Ann's - as there is no Singer store around here. I've looked at the 7462, 7466, and 7468. Those were my narrowed down choices for a Singer. Also, if you go to the Singer website there is a rebate form for a bunch of free stuff with the purchase of one of these machines. I guess I just need to figure out how much difference there is between the three machines. I've hunted for a machine comparison on these three, and couldn't find one. You Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm, and place their trust in you. Isaiah 26:3, AV
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User: Butterflyrf71
Member since: 05-02-2006 Total posts: 257
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From: bluebirdie
Date: 05-18-2006, 04:03 PM (6 of 29)
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One of my machines is a Brother. My only complaint is that it just won't quit
- Robin
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User: bluebirdie
Member since: 03-12-2006 Total posts: 139 |
From: plrlegal
Date: 05-18-2006, 07:18 PM (7 of 29)
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Butterfly you just need to sit down and test drive all three machines and see which one fits you the best. Patsy Patsy
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User: plrlegal
Member since: 05-19-2001 Total posts: 318 |
From: MaryW
Date: 05-19-2006, 06:58 AM (8 of 29)
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If you are even a little adventurous, you should choose one that is beyond your present capabilities. It will fit you better and better as time goes on.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542 
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From: Butterflyrf71
Date: 05-19-2006, 07:36 AM (9 of 29)
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I have test driven lots of machines. I like the really expensive ones - which means I've got great taste - but can't afford it! Does anyone know if Jo Ann's does layaway? I can get the machine I really want and pay it off in two or three months. Otherwise, I will be saving and waiting to purchase. I'm really leaning on the Singer 7466 or 7468, but I've found a discrepancy in the literature. Singer website features shows this machine does not do twin needle; however, everywhere else I looked at specs on this machine (Jo Ann's, Hancock, etc.) says this machine does have twin needle. Going for more test drives this weekend - and will find out for sure about the twin needle on the 7466. You Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm, and place their trust in you. Isaiah 26:3, AV
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User: Butterflyrf71
Member since: 05-02-2006 Total posts: 257
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From: esrun3
Date: 05-19-2006, 01:33 PM (10 of 29)
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If you sew with heavier fabrics be sure to take some of your fabric with you to test drive..........most places only have the light to medium weight fabric that they use for demo...not what everyone really sews on sometimes.
Lyn
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User: esrun3
Member since: 12-02-2004 Total posts: 2345 |
From: stephi
Date: 05-19-2006, 02:56 PM (11 of 29)
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I want a singer too but I have a kenmore and it is a nice heavy machine. It has held up to alot of sewing and alot of moving around....4 cities in all!! I am having a hard time finding a ruffler attachment for it, but I know I can always go to sears and order one. I agree about the heavier fabric even if you dont sew with it often take some to try. Stephi I have sewn so much in a life time I could wrap the thread around the world! Stephi
"No body knows what it is that I do until I dont do it" "if you do what you have always done you will get what you have always gotten" |
User: stephi
Member since: 03-17-2006 Total posts: 361 
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From: Butterflyrf71
Date: 05-19-2006, 04:24 PM (12 of 29)
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I will take some fabric with me - the heavier type. Great idea. I'll swing into Sears too. You know, my mother has offered me her Kenmore - maybe I should wait to buy, her Kenmore is a really good one. I guess I just always think Singer when I think sewing. Thanks! You Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm, and place their trust in you. Isaiah 26:3, AV
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User: Butterflyrf71
Member since: 05-02-2006 Total posts: 257
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From: Butterflyrf71
Date: 05-19-2006, 06:31 PM (13 of 29)
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Talked to my Mom about her machines tonight and learned something new. I had NO idea that Kenmore machines are Singers. Singer brands them for Sears. Anyone else know this? I'm going to look at Kenmore machines tomorrow!
You Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm, and place their trust in you. Isaiah 26:3, AV
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User: Butterflyrf71
Member since: 05-02-2006 Total posts: 257
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From: Marilyn in MD
Date: 05-19-2006, 07:33 PM (14 of 29)
| Not all Kenmores are Singers. Sears contracts with different sewing machine companies, and sometimes their machines are made by Singer and sometimes by other manufacturers. It isn't easy to find out which ones are made by which manufacturers. Even the sales staff cannot tell you - because they do not know! |
User: Marilyn in MD
Member since: 03-13-2006 Total posts: 14 |
From: karen149
Date: 05-19-2006, 07:46 PM (15 of 29)
| I have a great Janome 8080 that was sold at Sears only. It was just recently discontinued but they are still available in stores depending on their stock. It originally sold for $349 but is on clearance for $179! It is electronic, has about 30 stitches, speed control, needle up/down, automatic tension and a nice variety of feet, including a walking foot. It also has a one-step buttonhole based on the size of your button. My Mom bought one also and uses it mostly to make docent costumes and do a little quilting and she loves it, too. It's the same as the Janome DC3050. An excellent machine for the money. |
User: karen149
Member since: 03-20-2006 Total posts: 3 |
From: plrlegal
Date: 05-19-2006, 10:05 PM (16 of 29)
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Butterfly Singer doesn't manufacture any of their machines. The Singer machines are just like all the other machines, they are manufactured by one or two manufacturing companies to specifications set out by Sears, Viking, Pfaff, etc. There was a thread on here at one time that a couple of the men who are very, very knowledgeable about sewing/embroidery machine manufactuerers gave some very good information about who manufacturers what for who. I do know that Singer doesn't manufacture their own machines any more. Patsy Patsy
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User: plrlegal
Member since: 05-19-2001 Total posts: 318 |
From: Butterflyrf71
Date: 05-20-2006, 07:41 AM (17 of 29)
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Thanks for the infor all. Sometimes it is just better to humor Mom, than argue with her, lol. Karen - a special thanks to you - I will be going to look for that machine and try it out! You Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm, and place their trust in you. Isaiah 26:3, AV
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User: Butterflyrf71
Member since: 05-02-2006 Total posts: 257
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From: LadySloPokes
Date: 05-20-2006, 11:39 AM (18 of 29)
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When I was machine shopping in 2004 I had called my local Sears about their Kenmore machines. I was told that the machines they had were made by Janome (unknown to me at that time). That's when I decided to stick with Singer, and as good fortune would have it, there's an authorized Singer dealer just 2 1/2 miles from my house. They have now diversified, spreading their wings out and are now also selling Brother, Janome, Elna, and Juki. I'm not sure if they're doing internet sales anymore, but here's their link in case anyone is interested. http://www.mainfactory.com/index.html Cookie
Cookie
LadySlo...yes am I, but hey, I'm gettin' there! Are you sure it's supposed to look like this?! Proud owner of Singer Quantum Decor 7322 & Singer Quantum Futura CE 200.. "A balanced diet is having chocolate in both hands!" |
User: LadySloPokes
Member since: 08-15-2005 Total posts: 198
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From: Butterflyrf71
Date: 05-20-2006, 01:03 PM (19 of 29)
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Well, I took three hours for Jo Ann's today. To my suprise, they carry only huskavarna machines. Although this is the best Jo Ann's I've ever been in, I was sorry to see they didn't carry the Singer Brand. I'm off to Sears some time this weekend, and may have to plan a trip to the nearest Singer store (an hour away). Now, it's back to sewing! I did get a GREAT deal on a starter rotary cutting kit (I've been wanting to try rotary cutting for somtime). The $50 Fiskars kit was half off - $25. Away I go! You Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm, and place their trust in you. Isaiah 26:3, AV
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User: Butterflyrf71
Member since: 05-02-2006 Total posts: 257
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From: Butterflyrf71
Date: 05-21-2006, 09:46 AM (20 of 29)
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Talked to Mom, as always, everyday. Found out there is a Hancocks right down the street from Mom! Yeah! They carry Singer!
You Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm, and place their trust in you. Isaiah 26:3, AV
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User: Butterflyrf71
Member since: 05-02-2006 Total posts: 257
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From: Patty22
Date: 05-21-2006, 06:53 PM (21 of 29)
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If you are even a little adventurous, you should choose one that is beyond your present capabilities. It will fit you better and better as time goes on. __________________ MaryW Okay Mary, I'm going to quote you to my husband when my machine gives it's last stitch. Patty
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User: Patty22
Member since: 03-29-2006 Total posts: 1194 |
From: Mariellen
Date: 05-21-2006, 10:11 PM (22 of 29)
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Hi Butterfly I have a EuroPro that I really like and my husband just bought me a White2299 that is great! It does everything I want and then some. I think the feature I like best..only had for 2 weeks and haven't tried them all...is the LCD display that shows you the stitch and the settings for it. I bought it at Parsons Sewing Center which is inside the Joann stores up here and they said that it was a really good machine and they sold quite a few of them. Just thought I would put my 2 cents in. Have fun no matter which one you buy. If I had known that grandchildren were so much fun, I would have had them first!!
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User: Mariellen
Member since: 02-16-2006 Total posts: 58 
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From: Butterflyrf71
Date: 05-22-2006, 02:19 PM (23 of 29)
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Thanks to all of you for your help. Unfortunately I have run into a little snag healthwise and will be limited in my online and sewing time. But I'll be back!!!!! You Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm, and place their trust in you. Isaiah 26:3, AV
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User: Butterflyrf71
Member since: 05-02-2006 Total posts: 257
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From: mozeyrn
Date: 05-22-2006, 02:38 PM (24 of 29)
I hope you feel better real soon! Just keep looking ahead to the days when you will be sitting at your new machine and sewing up a storm!! 
- Maureen.
Learning something new with every stitch!! Kenmore 16231000 |
User: mozeyrn
Member since: 11-29-2005 Total posts: 349 |
From: MartySews
Date: 05-22-2006, 03:21 PM (25 of 29)
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Good luck on your sewing machine purchase. You might talk with a sewing machine dealer about trade-in models. Often people will upgrade their machine and one can get a great used machine with warranty and lessons that will meet their sewing needs. If memory serves me correctly, Singer is now owned by the Husqvarna Corp which also owns the Viking, White, & Pfaff machines. If at all possible, test drive a variety of brands. Also, don't discount machines that are sold in thrift stores. Sometimes one can find a real gem that needs a little TLC. If you find a machine with low shank snap-on feet, then there are supply places to order accessories and additonal presser feet. Happy Stitching! Marty 
It takes one moment to change a life.
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User: MartySews
Member since: 02-23-2003 Total posts: 504 
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From: Mariellen
Date: 05-22-2006, 03:33 PM (26 of 29)
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Hi Butterfly...just sending good wishes that you will be feeling well real soon and back to sewing. Will say a prayer for you!
If I had known that grandchildren were so much fun, I would have had them first!!
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User: Mariellen
Member since: 02-16-2006 Total posts: 58
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From: Butterflyrf71
Date: 05-22-2006, 06:19 PM (27 of 29)
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Thanks all - it will be a few weeks, but once all the tests are in - we will know what we are dealing with. Prayers are always welcome. I never posted a bio on myself when I joined - I just kind of jumped in. I feel like I know all of you so well already. My name is Robin, I live in Pennsylvania outside of Lancaster. I am divorced after 10 years of marriage, with two children, Abbey, almost 11, and Steven, almost 13. I've been with my pseudo husband (this is what I call the man who I am with, that I am still trying to talk into marriage, lol) for three and a half years. He has two children as well, Jesse age 12, and Tyler age 8. Yes, thats four kids! At the end of summer we will have ages 9, 11, 12, 13. Aghhhhh! I love my Lord, my family, my job, my computer, and my sewing. I wish there were more hours in the day! I've had health problems in the past - so I am sure I will get through this too. I'm not giving up on the machine either - even if I have to put one on layaway at Walmart! Singer will still service my machine no matter where I buy it - yes? Meanwhile, I will keep going with my White Classic (which I think I will keep as an extra machine - why re-thread if you have to? lol) You Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm, and place their trust in you. Isaiah 26:3, AV
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User: Butterflyrf71
Member since: 05-02-2006 Total posts: 257
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From: plrlegal
Date: 05-22-2006, 09:33 PM (28 of 29)
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Marty: Just fyi, here's the post about the investment company that now owns Singer, Viking and Pfaff. From: VSM Group Date: 12/12/2005 9:27:46 AM Subject: Industri Kapital Sells VSM Group to Affiliates of Kohlberg Management IV, L.L.C. Industri Kapital Sells VSM Group to Affiliates of Kohlberg Management IV, L.L.C. Industri Kapital ("IK") and affiliates of Kohlberg Management IV, L.L.C.("Kohlberg"), have signed an agreement on the sale of VSM Group Holding AB ("VSM"), a leading supplier of high end consumer sewing machines and accessories under the Husqvarna Viking and Pfaff brands. Affiliates of Kohlberg already control the well known Singer brand of household sewing machines. The transaction will be made by a holding company, to be called SVP Holdings, reflecting its ownership of the Singer, Viking and Pfaff brands. Don Fletcher, who joined Singer following Kohlberg's investment in September 2004, will become CEO and President of SVP Holdings. The executive management team of SVP Holdings will include representatives from both VSM and Singer. Mr. Jörgen Johansson, the current CEO of VSM, will become a senior advisor and member of the Board of Directors of SVP Holdings. Based in Sweden, VSM markets and sells advanced sewing machines, overlocks and accessories for creative sewing worldwide. With its global brands, VSM is the leader in the premium segments of its industry. The group has 2,000 employees, manufacturing facilities in Sweden and the Czech Republic, 16 sales companies and distributors in 57 countries with the world's largest dealer network consisting of some 4,100 sales-points. VSM has annual sales of 240 million euro. Following IK's acquisition of VSM from Electrolux in April 1997, IK, in close co-operation with management, transformed VSM into a leading player in the high-end segment of the sewing machine industry. During IK's ownership the company has launched a number of strategic initiatives, including improving the product range, focusing on the high-end embroidery segment and developing after-market sales of accessories and software, whilst continuously enhancing the professional dealer network. Sales have more than doubled and profits have almost trebled. Kim Wahl, Partner at Industri Kapital, commented: "This investment demonstrates our dedication to building best-in-class companies and improving operational performance. We have worked alongside a strong and dedicated management team to adapt the business to a niche where sewing is more of a hobby than a necessity. We have grown the company both organically and through the strategic add-on acquisition of Pfaff and we have ensured that VSM's dealer network is the strongest in the industry". Jörgen Johansson, CEO of VSM, commented: "As the world leader in creative sewing we are pleased to be acquired by affiliates of Kohlberg,which, like IK, have a strong appreciation of our specialized business and organizational culture. With their support, we are eager to continue our strategy of working with our dealers to deliver a superior creative sewing experience to our customers around the world. We are confident that the combination within SVP will allow us to utilize our resources in a much more efficient manner, furthering our ability to focus on the continued innovation necessary to keep the world sewing." Don Fletcher, CEO of Singer, commented: "I'm delighted at the prospect of bringing VSM under the SVP umbrella. VSM's highly advanced product development capabilities and its unsurpassed presence in the premium segment of the consumer sewing industry will be a perfect complement to our existing business, and I fully support the Company's growth strategy. Together, our two businesses will be better positioned to respond to the needs of consumers worldwide." The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals. Industri Kapital was advised by UBS, Advokatfirman Vinge and PricewaterhouseCoopers. Contacts: Industri Kapital: Kim Wahl, Partner Phone: +47 23 11 46 57 Anne Holm Rannaleet, Partner & Information Director Phone +46 8 678 9550 VSM: Jörgen Johansson, CEO Phone: +46 36 14 62 28 Kohlberg: Evan Wildstein, Kohlberg Phone: +1 (914) 241-7430 Singer Don Fletcher, CEO Phone: +1 (615) 280-5205 VSM VSM develops, produces, markets and sells home sewing machines and accessories which provide consumers worldwide with the potential to experience the joy of creative sewing. With its global brands, Husqvarna Viking and Pfaff, the company is one of the world's leading players in the industry. It sells some 500,000 sewing machines annually corresponding to a turnover of SEK 2.2 billion. The Group has around 2,000 employees, of whom 500 are based in Sweden. The company is certified in accordance with the international quality and environmental management systems ISO 9001 and ISO 14001. For further information on VSM: www.vsmgroup.com Patsy
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User: plrlegal
Member since: 05-19-2001 Total posts: 318 |
From: MartySews
Date: 05-22-2006, 09:47 PM (29 of 29)
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Thanks for the info. Hopefully, they will continue to have quality products and improved customer service. Happy Stitching! Marty
It takes one moment to change a life.
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User: MartySews
Member since: 02-23-2003 Total posts: 504
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