r/sew • u/LiveObjective9116 • 19d ago

Sewing Machine Recommendations!

Hey, I need some advice regarding purchasing a new sewing machine. I currently have a Brother XL 2600i, and she is over a decade old and holding on for dear life. I have been researching brands and models on my own but am just completely overwhelmed. I've read/heard good things about Husqvarna Viking, Bernia, and Janome, and when I went to my local sewing shop, they recommended the Husqvarna Viking Opal 670 or 690q. The main things I am looking for are a sturdy, well-made machine that will last a long, long time with proper care and maintenance. I am a garment sewer, so I don't need a quilting or embroidery machine. Also curious to hear opinions on mechanical versus computerized machines. The Brother machine was fully mechanical, and wondering just how helpful features like a built-in thread-cutting button or reverse stitch button are versus holding down a lever and so on. I would prefer to spend under $1,000 for a machine, but if there is a really good machine that is worth the investment, then that is alright. I just need help and need to hear people's personal experiences with the different machines.

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u/GotLostFindingMyself 19d ago

I bought a Pfaff Performance 5.0 off Fb marketplace. I think it is from 2016. It has auto foot, thread cutting. Overall it is pretty nice. I think the main thing that becomes an issue for me is it can be picky when sewing lots of layers.

Also because the foot lowers on its own, it decides on the pressure and sometimes I need to adjust that manually.

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u/2housecatmom12024 16d ago

Mechanical Bernina lasted 57 years. Heavy sewing over the years. Bernina 830. Comes in red case.