BF bought me a Bernina a few years ago. I'm not a prolific seamstress, so I didn't want to drop the funds on a brand new state-of-the-art Bernina, so we went shopping on ebay. We found an older one and I was in heaven. Unfortunately, I never took it to our local Bernina service center (a half hour drive from home) and so it sat in storage for nearly 4 years.
Finally, this past month, we made the drive to The Quilt Shop and had my Bernina serviced. BF picked it up for me this past weekend and it works like a charm. Practically brand new. I'm so excited to have a sewing machine again. My sewing is generally limited to craft items and repairs, but I'm still so thrilled to have a sewing machine just the same. Woohoo! Stay tuned for some interesting projects from time to time.
I seem to use my sewing machine for Scout patches only.
Posted by: Kathleen | Wednesday, March 18, 2009 at 13:11
I'm in the same sewing category as you. I primarily use mine for crafts and quick repair jobs; though I did sew simple garments for my daughter when she was small. Though I rarely even use mine, I'd feel lost to know it wasn't there, available for use when needed. Congrats on yours!
Posted by: Renna | Tuesday, March 17, 2009 at 11:35
Now you can sew your steeks!!!!
Posted by: Susan | Tuesday, March 17, 2009 at 09:27
Sounds like me. Sears was having a clearance sale on their Kenmores and I bought one. Well I didn't take it out of the box for a year!!! I just prayed it worked find and it did. You have a nice machine too. I've heard good things abt both Berninas and Pfaffs. They last a long time!! Can't wait to see what you make!
Posted by: Lynn | Monday, March 16, 2009 at 21:41
I love my Bernina! Happy sewing:)
Posted by: Barb | Monday, March 16, 2009 at 20:50
If you quilt, I'll swap blocks with you:)
Posted by: RebeccaCoday | Monday, March 16, 2009 at 14:05
Here's a tip from one who is a frequent sewer: When I began, we used a sewing needle until it broke - sometimes years. Now I know better. If your stitches start to be of lesser quality, change the needle. For me, that's once a garment; I realize you don't sew that way, so it is harder to give you a gauge. Still, a fresh, sharp needle makes a big difference.
Enjoy your machine! Think steeks!
Posted by: Barbara-Kay | Monday, March 16, 2009 at 12:37
I bought a Bernina about ten years ago after years of Bernina lust, a pretty basic model. Within a year I traded up to the Quilter's Edition and got many quilts and home dec projects out of that machine. Last year I sold that one to a friend out west and invested in the new Quilter's machine with the Bernina Stitch Regulator and have a quilt waiting in the wings as we speak. (I also have a serger that has made many dozens of napkins with rolled hems plus lots of home dec stuff.) You made a good choice....are you going to take some lessons?
Posted by: Marcia | Monday, March 16, 2009 at 11:08
you did good. the best machines are not necessarily the fancy ones. all you really need is straight stitch and zig zag. can't wait to see what you decide to make.
Posted by: Messy Karen | Monday, March 16, 2009 at 08:26
My mother bought that machine new probably 35-40 years ago. It is a great sewing machine and the only thing I want of hers when she is gone. Unfortunately, it is residing with my sister and I doubt she will let it go, never mind that she never uses it. She couldn't sew anything. That machine is also still very much in demand, they always sell for a pretty decent price on ebay. I have two other Berninas (three if you count the serger) and love them, but only one is the all metal machine they used to make. Enjoy it and sew often!
Posted by: TeresaC | Monday, March 16, 2009 at 07:30