Which is good because towards the end of last year my sewing machine began to act up. At first M-san couldn't get it to do what she wanted it to do when she was putting on binding but under my coaxing hand, we got the binding on. But while trying to figure out why the stitches were catching etc, I managed to knock out the little light and this meant that seam lines are hard to see. I couldn't figure out how to even unscrew the lightbulb even if I could buy such a small one. And then I began having trouble changing the needle... Am I putting it in backwards? Why won't the needle set right? And finally, both M-san and I gave up trying to quilt with mono-filament thread. No matter how I set the tension or sewed slowly, the thread kept breaking.
So... it seems my sewing machine needs an overhaul.
Or... should I consider a new sewing machine?
Tetsu has said for years that if I'm going to get a new sewing machine then I should do it soon so that I can spend time enjoying it but as I knew what my old machine could do and it was still working smoothly, I didn't want to think about a change. But now I am.
I looked at a few websites but with so many choices, I didn't have any idea of what I want. The last couple of machines that I've owned (and I've had this one at least 15 years), have been Brother machines. When at a fabric and machine store last week, I gathered a few pamphlets and looked at the few machines on display. A few things I do know.
I don't want a sewing machine that only runs a couple hundred dollars. I'm willing to and expect to pay more for a reliable sewing machine.
I'm not interested in a sewing machine that can do computerized embroidery. That cuts down the upper tier of the most costly sewing machines.
I probably either want to stick with a Brother sewing machine or possibly a Juki sewing machine. We can't even get Pfaff sewing machines and though I have a friend who has a Bernina, it is very difficult to have the machine serviced or repaired here in Japan.
I want a sewing machine that has a wide throat, an automatic thread cutter and will allow for a foot controller. I guess I could care less about automatic threaders, knee controllers and lots of decorative stitches.
On one of our jaunts out, Tetsu was willing to go looking for sewing machine stores in the next city over and we found one store (still closed for the holidays) that looked like it was really an electric store that carried sewing machines. But we also found a sewing machine repair shop that of course carried sewing machines. I really enjoyed talking to the repairman and I got some inside information from him.
His main advice... bring the sewing machine in to see if it can be repaired. The cost for a complete overhaul will be a couple hundred dollars (I'm okay with that though the actual sewing machine wasn't very expensive compared to a comparable sewing machine today.)
But he also talked about the sewing machines he carried and after hearing about what I want to do and how I use it, he recommended a Juki sewing machine. Hmmm... Okay...
One very disappointing piece of advice from this repairman though was he was absolutely anti monofilament thread.
"Monofilament thread will ruin any sewing machine. It wears away on the bars and gears of a sewing machine. You can get the same effect using #90 weight thread."
This is a blow to me because I lean heavily on monofilament thread when doing any of the collage art style quilts such as McKenna's. (Maybe that's why my sewing machine isn't working so well anymore.) It is true that monofilament thread is prickly to work with and sometimes my projects get done smoothly but sometimes it is a fight from start to finish. I have always thought I just didn't know how to adjust the machine's tension right or maybe I was choosing the wrong size needle...
I came home with more pamphlets but I think I'm getting burned out just trying to make a decision about a new sewing machine. Throw in the huge price differences on the same machines being sold through websites and I don't know WHO to listen to!
I will try taking my sewing machine back to the repair shop and see if the repairman can fix it up a bit. IF I need to start thinking about a new machine, are there any recommendations that you have? And finally, what do you think about monofilament thread? Is it really a no-no? McKenna recommends it, and I can't see trying to change threads to match colors on art quilts...
Too much to think about!
I have a Bernina 440QE, and it has not had any major repairs in over 11 years. My other 2 Berninas were still going well at 29 and 30 years old, one was traded, one was handed down to a daughter in 2010, and still going well, so now it must be over 40 years old. A friend has a Juki, straight sewer, I find the throat not quite as big as I would like, can you have a trail with any machine? I know years ago my other one did not like being in a cold room. If you don't need to move it, go for the best one you can afford, as mine is too heavy to be lifted or moved. It stays put, just ready at any time.
ReplyDeleteoops, I read the comment, and should have said " Trial " not " Trail" but guess you might walk along a trail to find the one you like best!!!
ReplyDeletedepends on the monofilament thread, if you are using the very fine one I seem to have seen that does not do damage whereas some monofilament is very wiry. Do research on this on your computer, Irene in N Ireland
ReplyDeleteI have a Bernina 630 which I love. I've had very few problems with it but I do have it serviced every year. I had always used Singer machines before I got the Bernina and I always liked them but they were all older models that didn't do free motion quilting. I rented a Jenome once and it was a nice machine but I didn't quilt with it. My Mom and friends like the Pfaff but I gather you can't get that in Japan.
ReplyDeleteI've not had much luck with monofilament thread so I no longer use it on a regular basis. Superior thread has a monofilament which is polyester. I have not tried it but they claim it works better. You might want to explore different types of needles and see if that helps.
I am also a Bernina 440 user. BUT I would prefer a machine with a great repairman. Used to have one for my Singers but he retired. Go with a reliable machine that he recommends. He knows what are good machines. Get only what you need. I only need a foot control, straight and blanket stitch and rarely a zig zag. Dont need any other fancy stitches although my machine has 500+. Dont need embroidery as that was another $1,000 when the machine was new. I turned it down. Right now, I would look for a demo or trade in since I dont like the huge new machines. And I would go to the store that has an in house sewing machine repair department. They have given great service to a friend and they only service what they sell since they are busy.
ReplyDeleteJuki makes great machines for straight stitching. The 1/2 foot is accurate and they are great for free motion quilting at home.
ReplyDeleteI would go with getting your old one overhauled, if that is possible!
ReplyDeleteI think your monofilament thread problems might depend on what KIND of monofilament you are using. There is nylon monofilament thread - bad stuff! Wearing on machinery, degrades over time, yuk! THEN there is polyester monofilament. Just like using any other polyester thread in your machine - but clear (or smoky clear, for the dark variety). I get mine from Superior Threads.
ReplyDelete:) Linda
As Irene says there are different kinds of invisible threads. I have used Coats & Clark nylon --WHICH IS INDEED VERY COARSE AND WIRY. The one I currently use for McKenna's applique is Superior Threads Monopoly. It is soft polyester and as fine as hair. I also like that it comes in both clear and also a smoke color. I order online directly from Superior Threads. There is much valuable information about these threads as well as many others on the Superior Threads website.
ReplyDeleteI've had a Bernina for over 30 years and love it, I thought I would never have a different brand but last year I bought a Juki and I love it just as much. I'm glad I have both, I use the Bernina if I need to do a buttonhole or zigzag. If you got yours repaired and bought a Juki you would have the same options. I would also listen to the repairman regarding thread, he's probably seen lots of troubles from the monofilament thread. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteI am a Bernina owner, Tanya, and have a number of friends who also own Bernina's but in addition they also own Juki's and love them! I've heard they are hard working, straight forward and last forever! I've seriously considered getting one as a second machine.
ReplyDeleteThe original monofilament thread was not very good. Now you can buy much nicer ones from Superior threads and other makes, so no need to give up using it. As for sewing machines, I have a Husqvarna, a Bernina and an Elna. Bear in mind if you buy a different make there may be more expense buying different feet for quilting and free machine quilting. I've just had the Bernina 1020 which my daughter now uses repaired for under £100. It is not computerised and something had burned out inside, though it was still sewing! I would have the old machine you know and like serviced, while thinking about newer models, the same make. You could probably trade in the old one and save some money.
ReplyDeleteI would suggest picking a brand that you can have serviced in your area.
ReplyDeleteI have had Janome machines since the early 1980s...a Japanese brand which also provided machines for Sears under the Kenmore brand on occasion; perhaps they are only exported?
Sometimes the older machines are the best workhorses...on the new machines, just look at the functions you want (auto cut); all the extra decorative stitches and multiple alphabets, while nice, are just "icing" that you probably won't use regularly.
It doesn't have to be your last machine, just think of it as your next machine.
I don't machine quilt, I send them out. But for patchwork and other sewing, I use an old Singer featherweight. I've wanted to get a new machine with at least a zigzag stitch, but can't seem to find one that I'm willing to pay for. I have to confess that I don't like change, so that is probably holding me back. I agree with Irene about researching on your computer about the thread. Thanks for sharing and good luck with whatever you decide.
ReplyDeleteIt is hard to replace a loved machine that you know. I have two Janome machines and had two others previously. All have been wonderful. I am able to get them serviced locally and I find their price point to be good. I have heard that Juki is a fantastic machine but have not used one. Happy shopping.
ReplyDeleteMy vote is to get your Brother serviced AND get a Juki. I have a Pfaff which has served me well, but if I ever need a new machine it'll be a Juki. "Buy nice or buy twice." :)
ReplyDeleteI’ve read the monofilament isn’t good to use around pets. Also heard of a baby getting it wrapped around finger almost had to be amputated
ReplyDeleteMy first concern is to have the repairman and yearly service close...... then the other items on your list....
ReplyDeleteI love Brother machines. Good quality and long lasting in my experience. I have a small one I use for travel or workshops, have had it for over 10 years. I have an older large Baby Lock, which when compared to many Brothers is very similar, also an excellent machine. I know the Juki's are very poplular too, I have no experience with them. A good mid-priced machine, $500 - $800, and one which can be serviced locally, if need be, should fit what you want to use it for ie: sewing quilt blocks, quilting etc. As to the monofilament I use it quite a bit and have never had issues with it. I do not believe the companies which manufacture it would do so if they thought it could harm an expensive sewing machine. I am with what others posted about using a really good quality mono thread though, makes all the difference in how it sews and how it looks on the finished piece. I have used Aurifil #80 weight cotton & 'cottonized' poly thread (new thread from Wonderfil, DecoBob: https://www.wonderfil.ca/decobob) for machine applique, such as the McKenna Ryan style, with success. Buying a new machine is stressful! Worse than a car for me. I purchased a new machine this past April, Janome MC8200 QCP, huge 11-inch throat space and modern LED lighting. It has been a dream to sew and quilt with, the lighting is so good for my aging eyes. It was almost $2,000 though, but I said it was my retirement gift to myself and I'd not be buying another for however many years I have left on this earth. Sending good vibes through the air to you to have success in picking out a new machine soon. Would I repair a 15 year old machine? No, probably not, because it's like putting money into an old car - what will break next - then more money has to be spent. My take on it anyway. Hugs from NC, KittyAnn
ReplyDeleteAbout ten years ago, when I needed a new machine, I bought a Juki. I am very satisfied with it. It is great for sewing and Free Motion Quilting. I don't have experiencee with monofilament thread, but can recommend both Superior thread and Wonderfil thread. My Juki does have a lot of decorative stitches and I tried some for quilting simple quilts. Works great! Greetings from Berlin, Germany, Gina
ReplyDeleteI started with a $99 Singer in the 60s and after a few years upgraded for more features (discs that made fancy stitches). About 20 years ago, I got my first Bernina and still use it and love it. I also bought a second Bernina as a backup. The older machines are much heavier (and maybe sturdier) because of the use of metal instead of plastic. If I were in your position, I think I would look seriously at brands that can be serviced locally or within a reasonable district. I would also take the Brother in for service. I do not use monofilament thread so no experience there. I have just never liked the feel of it. Good luck and please let us know what you decide.
ReplyDeleteIt looks like you have plenty of good advice. I was given a singer machine as a wedding present from my parents. It is very heavy and large, but in a pinch with a lot of oil here and there I can get it to work. At a quilt show I tried out sample machines and have not found one that I would want to own. I would want to go back to the old treadle machine I learned on, where you can control the stitches one by one... and I can do that by hand anyway.
ReplyDeleteI do most of my piecing on a 1932 Singer Featherweight. Perfect 1/4 seams. For actual quilting I use my mom's Viking that she bought in the early 1960's. Uses cams for decorative stitching. That Viking weighs a ton so I don't move it very often. I keep saying I will get a more modern machine but these two are really workhorses. The man who services my machines always tells me the older machine are so much better and if possible keep them until they can't be repaired. Good luck finding your new machine. I am sure you will pick the one that is perfect for you.
ReplyDeleteKaren in New Jersey
Adding my 2 cents. Almost 20 years ago, I upgraded from my 25 yr. old (wedding present) White brand to a Bernina and was blown away with the difference in quality. I'd had the White serviced several times but it was clear that it was tired and worn down and ready to be replaced. Not much more you can do to some machines before you have to give up and put them out to pasture. The White had served its purpose sewing everything from household goods to maternity clothes to baby clothes and so on. It didn't owe me a penny and I was glad I replaced it. I went with Bernina for the new machine because of their reputation and because I could get good in-store repairs locally. I chose Bernina's "quilter's edition" machine because of the features it came with and because I was starting to sew more quilts than anything else. I never upgraded because I have yet to find something I need to sew that this machine can't sew! My advice is to get whatever brand is sold by a local store that can do repairs on the spot. You don't want to have to send your machine somewhere for even routine service. That repairman you spoke to sounds like he knows sewing machines. I stay away from monofilament not because of machine wear but because I simply can't stand handling it. I'd use a fine regular thread in light gray or off-white instead. Someone else mentioned a cold room - yes - at sewing club we were warned by a repairman not to leave our Berninas in our car trunks in the winter because the cold congeals the oil and you can get internal condensation when the metal parts come back up to room temperature. Not good for machinery. Bottom line - I'd get my current machine looked at and repaired, if possible, for use as a back-up machine. But I'd look for a new machine too, to be your primary machine. Take your own fabric and a little quilt "sandwich" of layers to the sewing store when you test drive the new machines. Simulate the kind of sewing you'd do on the machine. See if you're comfortable with the machine and if it responds well to the quilt layers. Ok, that's more than 2 cents worth but hopefully good advice for you. Awaiting your post about your brand new machine someday! :)
ReplyDeleteMy Juki TL-98a met all your criteria. No problems over twenty years, but I did have it serviced every couple years.
ReplyDeleteI'm a Bernina gal... have enjoyed my purchased-used Bernina for 17 years now. But I totally have my eye on a Juki TL2010 or 2020. It IS a lot of money, but I would rather pay for something that can handle my quilting lifestyle than waste time and energy over something that routinely reduces me to tears.
ReplyDelete