I dropped in to say hello to my friends at Ace Sew and Vac in Pompano Beach, Florida and spied brand new Juki DDL 8100e straight stitch only industrial sewing machine.

Juki DDL 8100e

I don’t review too many industrial machines, but there was no way I would leave without taking a close look at this one.

At A Glance

When I first noticed it, the Juki DDL 8100e reminded me of many other industrial sewing machines I have seen… even those that are used in some homes.

Table mounted machine

It is table mounted with a goose neck lamp and thread cone attached along with a side mounted bobbin winder and a convenient compartment for storing bobbins, needles, thread clippers and other frequently used small sewing machine accessories.

A convenient compartment for storing accessories

A large reverse stitch lever, a knee lift, two push buttons

There is also a large reverse stitch lever, a knee lift, two push buttons – one red/one green which turn the machine on and off – and a large comfortable foot pedal.

Features

• Straight stitch only
• Reverse stitch
• Sews up to 5500 stitches per minute
• Clutch motor
• Knee lift
• Separate on board bobbin winder
• Built in accessories compartment
• Push button on/off
• Mounted goose neck lamp
• Built in cone thread stand
• Adjustable stitch length

Working on the Juki DDL 8100e

When you are looking at a single purpose industrial sewing machine, you look for different things than the things that might be of importance to someone who is most interested in a sewing machine for home use.

Threading the machine requires to follow all the steps correctly

Single purpose industrial sewing machines are expected to be workhorses… doing the one thing they are built to do better than just about any other machine on the market.

If you expect to be able to wind the bobbin or thread the Juki DDL 8100e or any other industrial sewing machine the same way you would a machine built strictly for home use, you will be sadly disappointed.

Machines of this type are built for use by people who have many years’ experience and don’t need the added benefit of a detailed graphic display of the threading instructions or decals or numbers for you to follow.

If you are going to use any industrial sewing machine, you will be expected to know enough about basic sewing machine operation to be able to sit down and thread the machine with little or no assistance of instruction.

Dial regulating the stitch length

The same goes for winding the bobbin. Using the side mounted bobbin winder is not a difficult task, but one that anyone who attempts to use this machine is expected to already know. If you really need instructions, they are written in the owner’s manual, but that’s it.

When you thread the Juki DDL 8100e, it is necessary to go through a series of steps that include several thread guides as well as a pair of manual thread tension discs.

If you miss one of these steps, or if you do not have everything just right, the machine will not function properly.

A visit to the Juki website reveals that the Juki DDL 8100e was built to work with light to medium to only. For this review, I used a double layer of medium weight denim.

There were no stitch options to test… just the stitch length. The dial regulating the stitch length turns easily and getting it to go from forward to reverse stitching was a cinch.

The surprise for me, however, was the lightning speed with which this machine sews. A light touch of my foot on the pedal and this thing literally took off!

I’m not sure if I ever worked on a machine that sews up to 5,500 stitches per minute, but I will readily admit that I’m not sure I would be comfortable working on a machine that sews this fast unless I was working on something that is simple and straight forward… like a long straight seam.

I’m not at all sure I would be comfortable sewing curves or setting in a sleeve on a machine as fast and powerful as this one.

The quality of the stitches is great. Although I may have been intimidated by the speed, I love the stitches. Regardless of the length, each stitch is absolutely perfect… and that’s the whole purpose for this machine.

Stitch is absolutely perfect

Fabrics

• Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool
• Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet
• Knits
• Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester
• Leather/suede
• Fur
• Reptile skin
• Canvas/Twill
• Plastic/Rubber
• Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers

Accessories

When it comes to industrial sewing machines, you will never find the long list of accessories that sometimes come with home sewing machines.

For instance, with a straight stitch only machine like the Juki DDL 8100e, there is no need for a full complement of presser feet

You can, however, expect to find the following items included in the carton with the purchase of a new Juki DDL 8100e:

• Bobbins
• Oil dispensers
• Owner’s manual
• Screw drivers
• Needles

Maintenance

Tying Off The Loose Ends

The Juki DDL 8100e is not just an industrial sewing machine by name. This is truly a machine that is designed and built for use in an industrial setting.

I know several people who have industrial machines in their homes. I have one myself. However, this is not a machine that should be used in the home unless you have a serious home based sewing business.

Few people can handle a machine that sews 5,500 stitches per minute, and they, no doubt, are professional seamstresses and tailors… not people work in the back of a shop doing alterations, but serious professionals.

I make no bones about the fact that I have been sewing since I was a child. This is the very first sewing machine I have worked on that is so fast, I was actually intimidated by its power and speed.

I have no doubt that in time, I could get accustomed to this powerful machine, but only after a bit of time and practice.

There are certainly plenty of people and situations where a machine this fast is not only welcome but required. With an MSRP of just $899.95, and the Juki name and reputation behind it, I am convinced that the Juki DDL 8100e would be a great choice for any industrial setting.

Its solid all metal construction and simple operation make it a wonderful workroom machine in any factory setting.

The clutch motor maintains a steady hum the entire time the machine is turned on. If white noise is a problem for you, it might be possible to switch to a quiet electronic motor, but the tradeoff would be that you probably would not be able to achieve such high speed sewing.

I know from some of the e-mails I receive that people with a vested interest in commercial sewing machines visit this website as well as those who are primarily interested in machines for home use only.

For this reason, I will continue to occasionally review truly industrial sewing machines like this one. If you are in the market to increase the number of sewing machines in your commercial workroom, take a few minutes to seriously consider the possibility of adding the Juki DDL 8100e to your inventory.

The Juki brand name is synonymous with superior sewing machines. The Juki DDL 8100e is no exception.

I don’t review many truly industrial sewing machines, but living here in South Florida, I often run into people who are interested in sewing machines that are capable of repairing boat sails.

Juki LU 2810

The Juki LU 2810 certainly fits the bill. I came upon one on a recent visit to Ace Sewing and Vacuum in Pompano Beach, Florida, and immediately put in a request to review it.

At A Glance

You immediately know the Juki LU 2810 is not an ordinary sewing machine when you see the long arm and then notice that it has a total of four different tension discs on the front.

The large reverse stitch lever and oversized stitch length adjustment dial are also dead giveaways that this is no ordinary sewing machine.

Bobbin winding mechanism mounted on the front

The Juki LU 2810 has a bobbin winding mechanism mounted on the front, not the side or top where you would expect to find it.

This alternative placement at first took me by surprise, but after considering it for a little while, I understand why they put it there.

By snapping the bobbin to the front of the machine, you actually save a lot of time. Believe it or not, every millisecond counts, especially when you are in a commercial setting.

The Juki LU 2810 is table mounted with a knee lift. The model I reviewed has a whisper quiet electronic motor and an oversized thread cone stand attached to the tabletop.

Four different tension discs

The huge workspace and high clearance make it possible for you to work on extremely large sewing projects like boat sails, car seats, luggage, shoes and oversize purses and tote bags. The website even states that the Juki LU 2810 can be used to assemble furniture.

Features

Unlike machines made for home use, truly commercial sewing machines are generally built to perform one task only. As such, there are very few features to discuss.

These machines are specifically designed to do just one thing and do it exceptionally well. Such is the case with the Juki LU 2810.

This is a straight stitch only machine that has an adjustable stitch length up to 9 millimeters. It requires a specific needle size – 135 x 7; and works best with thread sizes #30-#5, B46-B138, and Nm=60/3-20/3.

Working on the Juki LU 2810

In case you weren’t already aware, the mere fact that the Juki LU 2810 has four separate upper thread tension discs is proof positive that threading this machine is going to be much, much different than threading any sewing machine or home use.

In addition, there are no easy to follow thread guides stamped onto the machine head to help you with the process. In order to properly thread this machine and wind the bobbin, it is necessary to refer to the owner’s manual.

I daresay that it will take more than one read through to master the steps required to thread this machine properly.

Stitch length adjustment dial

Once it is threaded, however, and ready to sew, there are very few steps to take before actually sewing. Merely set the desired stitch length, raise the presser foot with the knee lift, place the fabric under the needle and press the foot pedal.

The stitch length adjustment dial is situated at your right hand, next to the reverse stitch lever, making it easy to make changes with ease.

The movement of the machine is not only remarkably quiet thanks to the electronic motor, the motion is also quite fluid as I changed the stitch length and engaged the reverse stitch lever during the review.

I didn’t have any thick leather or sailcloth at hand and since this machine was specifically designed to handle extra thick fabric, heavy leather or sailcloth, I used four layers of heavy weight denim to test it out.

The stitches formed by the Juki LU 2810 meet every expectation anyone could ever have of a Juki. The quality is unparalleled by any other industrial machine that I have had the pleasure of reviewing. They are not only tight and secure, they are evenly spaced, well-formed and crisp.

Evenly spaced, well-formed and crisp stitches

Fabrics

• Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool
• Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet
• Knits
• Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester
• Leather/suede
• Fur
• Reptile skin
• Canvas/Twill
• Plastic/Rubber
• Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers

Accessories

If you are looking for a long list of standard or optional accessories with the Juki LU 2810, you will be disappointed. With this solid all metal workhorse, all you get is an owner’s manual, lubrication bottles, an owner’s manual, needles, bobbins and a screwdriver set.

Things that normally come with home sewing machines – extra presser feet, lint brush, seam ripper, etc., are not included with industrial sewing machines largely because it is assumed that these items are already available in the workroom in large supply.

Besides, with a straight stitch only machine like the Juki LU 2810, the likelihood of changing the presser foot is slim to none. There may be an occasion when a cording foot might come in handy, but 98 percent of the tasks handled by this machine require the standard straight stitch presser foot only.

Maintenance

Tying Off The Loose Ends

I am by no means an expert when it comes to special purpose industrial or commercial sewing machines. I do, however, know a good sewing machine when I see one and the Juki LU 2810 is definitely a great sewing machine.

I like the feel of this heavy duty machine and sincerely wish I had brought some heavy leather with me or had a piece of sailcloth or canvas to really put it through its paces. I am not advocating that this machine be a part of the average home sewing room.

However, if you are one of those people who likes to make purses, large shopping bags or small luggage pieces for yourself and those close to you, or if you are toying around with the idea of setting up your own business making customized purses and bags, you might want to give some very serious consideration to adding the Juki LU 2810 to your sewing room. It just might take your production skills to the next level.

One day I received a request from a site visitor that I review the Baby Lock Ellisimo Gold. Luckily, I was able to find an Ellisimo Gold II at Cynthia’s Fine Fabrics in Tamarac, Florida.

Baby Lock Ellisimo Gold II

It’s not always possible for me to fulfill requests for reviews of specific machines so quickly, so I want to express my sincere thanks to Cynthia and her staff for helping make this possible.

At A Glance

It’s been a long, long time since I came across a sewing machine that has as many standard and optional features and accessories as the Baby Lock Ellisimo Gold II… so many, in fact, that it’s hard to even decide where to start.

Three USB ports on the right hand side

In addition to the on board function buttons that you would expect to find on an advanced sewing, embroidery and quilting machine: start/stop; reverse; thread cut; presser foot up/down; needle up/down; and a variable speed slider, there is an oversized full color touch screen, an on board stylus and three USB ports on the right hand side, a large embroidery unit that allows you to sew with it in place; and a see through bobbin cover along with a sensor that lets you know when your bobbin thread is low.

The easy to follow threading guide is a major advantage as well as the automatic needle threading system and the bright LED lighting that illuminates your work without creating shadows.

This is not a small sewing machine. Its footprint is larger than most machines of this type, and that’s a good thing.

The Ellisimo Gold II has one of the largest work areas available on a home sewing machine. This is especially helpful when working on large sewing projects, especially those big quilting or embroidery jobs.

Features

Among the almost countless advanced features available on the Ellisimo Gold II are the downloadable software; on board Nancy Zieman embroidery designs; oversized alphanumeric characters; and print and stitch capabilities.

Sewing Features

• 683 On board utility and decorative stitches
  • 149 utility stitches
  • 15 automatic one-step buttonholes
  • 1 four-step manual buttonhole
  • 355 decorative stitches
  • 79 Decorative satin
  • 20 Satin
  • 17 Cross
  • 63 Combinable Utility stitches
  • 4 On board alphanumeric fonts
  • 29 Quilting stitches
• 57 needle positions
• Adjustable stitch length up to 30mm
• Stitch width up to 7mm
• Utility stitch editing capabilities
• 5 memory settings for each utility stitch
• Decorative stitch editing
• Ability to edit and combine character and decorative stitches
• 20 memory pockets
• Ability to sew with embroidery unit attached
• Automatic drop feed
• Mirror-image
• Stitch lock key
• Lateral and diagonal feeding
• Variable needle positions
• Built-in darning
• Twin needle settings
• Large workspace – 50 square inches
• Function buttons
  • Start/Stop
  • Reverse stitch
  • Needle up/down
  • Thread cutter
  • Automatic presser foot lift
  • Automatic needle threading
• Speed control slider
• 3-position adjustable knee lift
• Extra high presser foot lift
• Programmable 3-step needle up/down
• Needle plate with seam guide in inches and centimeters
• Multi-Function Foot control
• Free arm
• Two accessory storage compartments (one on board and one separate accessories box)
• On board operation guide includes 11 instructional videos
• On board application guide
• On board help menu
• (SCS) Embroidery Stitch Count System
• Ability to save on screen images
• Downloadable Software via USB connection

Embroidery Features

• On board embroidery design library
• 617 on board embroidery designs:
  • 302 Baby Lock exclusive designs including
  • 39 Nancy Zieman designs
  • 14 bobbin work embroidery designs
  • 15 Buttonhole embroidery designs in 3 sizes
  • 15 Buttonhole embroidery frame designs
• 120 Frame combinations
• 21 Font styles including:
  • Extra large striped alphabet and characters
  • Extra large block alphabet and characters
  • Script alphabet and characters
  • Large floral alphabet
  • Greek alphabet
• Embroidery field up to 8” x 12” (200mm x 300mm)
• Memory capacity 2MB
• Embroidery design capacity up to 500,000 stitches per design
• Touch screen measurements displayed in inches or centimeters
• Color separation
• Thread color indicator
• On screen hoop size indicator
• Low bobbin thread indicator
• 300 Color names
• Customizable screen saver
• Thumbnail images up to 150% of the normal size
• 8-Point trial check points
• Starting point key for instant alignment of characters or patterns
• Resume feature
• On screen grid
• Ability to combine embroidery designs
• Rotate patterns at 1°, 10°, and 90°
• Enlarge designs up to 200% and reduce to 60%
• Automatic appliqué
• Automatic basting
• Mirror imaging
• Print and stitch capabilities

Technology Features:

• TruView™ ASV® LCD Color Touch Screen measures 8.5” diagonally
• NeedleCam™ digital camera assures the user of perfect embroidery and sewing positioning
• Needle laser beam for precise alignment
• OnScreen™ designer
• SketchPad™ tablet and electronic pen
• Enhanced LED Stadium Lighting
• 3 USB drives
• NeverMiss™ automatic threading system
• advanced pivoting feature
• Automatic fabric sensor system
• Automatic thread cutter (with on/off capability)
• Quick-set, top-loading bobbin with sensor
• Quick-set independent bobbin winding system with variable speed
• Automatic upper and lower thread sensors on/off
• On screen hoop sensor recommends best hoop size for your selected project
• Embroidery and sewing speeds up to 1,000 stitches per minute

Working on the Baby Lock Ellisimo Gold II

Before ever attempting to work on the Baby Lock Ellisimo Gold II you get the feeling that working on this machine is going to be a pleasure. When you first turn it on, you have the option of choosing the sewing, quilting or embroidery mode.

600 stitch options

Regardless of the mode you select, following the on board threading and bobbin winding guides are only the first steps in what for me turned out to be a very enjoyable experience.

At first, I was a bit concerned that with more than 600 stitch options from which to choose making a selection might be a challenge without a stitch selection guide inside the top lid.

As it turned out, however, the full color touch screen makes navigating through the stitch selection process seem like child’s play. There are two major stitch modes – utility and character/decorative.

For this review, I sampled several utility and decorative stitches. Just for the fun of it, I also toyed around with the alphanumeric fonts and decided to program the machine to write my name out in one of the large script fonts.

Whether using the programmable design function or sewing decorative and utility stitches one at a time or in a programmed sequence, I found that the Baby Lock Ellisimo Gold II is solid, silent and produced great stitches no matter which option I chose.

With some sewing machines, it is necessary to raise the volume level if you are listening to music or watching television while sewing. Not so with the Baby Lock Ellisimo Gold II.

Great stitch quality

This fully computerized sewing, quilting and embroidery machine is so quiet, it is entirely possible that you could hold a telephone conversation while sewing and the party on the other end of the call would never even suspect that a machine was running in the background.

Fabrics

• Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool
• Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet
• Knits
• Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester
• Leather/suede
• Fur
• Reptile skin
• Canvas/Twill
• Plastic/Rubber
• Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers

Accessories

Standard accessories

Standard accessories

• 18 snap on presser feet
  • Zigzag
  • Monogram
  • Buttonhole
  • Embroidery (with needle beam)
  • Narrow hemmer
  • Cording
  • Blind stitch
  • Vertical stitch alignment
  • Blind stitch
  • Walking
  • Side cutter
  • Straight stitch
  • Free motion quilting
  • Free motion echo quilting
  • Free motion open toe
  • Cording
  • Blind hem
  • Overcasting
• Eyelet punch
• Screwdrivers
• 3 Spool caps (1 large/1 medium/1 small)
• Alternate bobbin case for pre-wound bobbins
• USB tablet
• Cordless pen
• Adjustable 3 position knee lifter
• Digital USB mouse
• Stylus
• Microfiber cleaning cloth
• USB cable
• Case for storing presser feet
• Multi-Function Foot Control
• Soft canvas cover with 3 storage pockets
• Embroidery unit carrying case
• Cone thread stand
• Straight stitch needle plate
• Bobbin case and cover for embroidery and bobbin work
• Bobbin case for pre-wound bobbins
• Bobbin center pin
• Embroidery bobbin thread
• Bobbins
• Needles
• Scissors
• Lint brush
• Cord guide bobbin cover
• Seam ripper
• Twin needle
• 4 Embroidery hoops
  • 8” x 12” (200mm x 300mm)
  • 8” x 8” (200mm x 200mm)
  • 4” x 4” (100mm x 100mm)
  • 1” x 2 ½ ” (20mm x 60mm)
• Ability to work in 12 different languages
• Owner’s manual and reference guides

Owner’s manual and reference guides

Optional Accessories

• Embroidery hoops
  • 6 ¼ ” x 10 ¼ ” (160mm x 260mm)
  • 5” x 7” (130mm x 180mm)
  • Continuous border (100mm X 180mm)
• 1GB Flash Drive
• 10 Spool thread stand
• 16” x 23 ¾ ” Extension table and grip
• Embroidery card reader
• TruStitch quilting stitch regulator
• Stabilizers
• Instructional DVD

Maintenance

Tying Off The Loose Ends

The Baby lock Ellisimo Gold II is certainly one of the most well-appointed sewing, quilting and embroidery machines I have reviewed to date. It is user friendly – which is major advantage over many other machines in its class – and it is easy to learn to operate.

The on board tutorials and guides are ideal for those home sewers who are not as familiar with basic sewing techniques and functions as I believe they should be before taking on such an awesome machine.

If you are familiar with my reviews, you already know that I firmly believe beginners should not take on too much at the onset of their sewing experience.

I do, however, recognize that lots of people with little or no sewing experience purchase machines far above their skill levels and then try to learn everything at once.

This may work for some people. However, the majority of them are so overwhelmed they end up either selling the machine and giving up on sewing altogether or leaving them to rot in the bottom of a closet.

In my opinion, it is best for beginners, no matter how young or old, to start with a basic machine and then moving up to more complicated machines, capable of rendering hundreds of stitches and loaded with top of the line optional features and accessories.

The Baby Lock Ellisimo Gold II might be an exception to that rule. A beginner who invests in this machine must, however, not only be dedicated to learning sewing techniques, they must also be willing to make a solid commitment to themselves to stick with their new hobby in the process.

Excellent sewing, quilting and embroidery machine

Anyone who purchases a Baby Lock Ellisimo Gold II from an authorized dealer is entitled to free classes. In order to get the best out of the Ellisimo Gold II, I recommend these classes for everybody who makes an investment in this machine. It’s the only way to be certain that you will be able to benefit from everything it has to offer.

The good news is the Baby Lock Ellisimo Gold II is an excellent sewing, quilting and embroidery machine. The stitch quality is excellent. It is extremely user friendly and the standard and optional features and accessories are mind boggling.

The bad news is this machine will be discontinued in April 2014. That, too, however, could be very good news because authorized local Baby lock dealers will be looking to sell off their current stock in order to make room for the new models to be released later this summer.

With the pending discontinuation of the Baby Lock Ellisimo Gold II, there will be lots of sales and opportunities for people to get a great deal on this great machine.

If you are one of those people, I suggest you contact the nearest authorized Baby Lock dealer and ask for a demonstration. Do not attempt to purchase this or any other Baby Lock sewing machine on the internet.

Baby Lock does not authorize the online sale of any of its machines. If you acquire a Baby Lock Ellisimo Gold II through any source other than an authorized Baby Lock dealer, you forfeit all rights to warranties, factory service if it ever becomes necessary and all other benefits offered by the manufacturer.

While visiting Factory Sewing and Vacuum in Lantana, Florida, I came upon a limited edition Husqvarna/Viking Eden Rose 250C.

I hadn’t read anything about this machine and was a bit surprised that the folks at Husqvarna/Viking were going back to the florals.

Husqvarna/Viking Eden Rose 250C Limited Edition

For those who aren’t aware, before using the names of precious and semi-precious stones, all Husqvarna/Viking sewing machines bore the names of flowers.

At A Glance

The LCD screen, stitch selection menu touch pad and fabric selection pad

The Husqvarna/Viking Eden Rose 250C has a rose emblazoned on the front and the monochromatic LCD screen and function keys are mounted on rose colored panels.

There is little wonder that I was drawn to this machine. Roses are my favorite flowers and pink is my favorite color.

With this combination, there is no wonder at all that I found the Husqvarna/Viking Eden Rose 250C to be one of the most eye-pleasing sewing machines I’ve seen in quite a while.

Once you get past the aesthetics, you notice the clear see through bobbin cover which allows you to see exactly how much thread is available on the drop in bobbin.

There is also an on board ruler, and touch pads to control: needle up/down; presser foot up/down; reverse stitch; design stop; speed control; and fix.

The LCD screen, stitch selection menu touch pad and fabric selection pad are on the other side of the extra-large workspace.

Touch pad controls

A quick reference stitch selection guide is located inside the lid of the Husqvarna/Viking Eden Rose 250 along with the threading and bobbin winding mechanism.

Features

• 145 decorative and utility stitch options
• 4 alphanumeric fonts
• 7 one step buttonholes
• 12 languages
• Ability to wind the bobbin from the needle
• Side to side mirror image
• Built in needle threader
• Bright LED lighting
• Sensor foot lift, pivot and pressure
• Programmable memory
• Adjustable stitch length and width
• Free arm
• On board accessory storage

Working on the Husqvarna/Viking Eden Rose 250C Limited Edition

I found that working on the Husqvarna/Viking Eden Rose 250C Limited Edition is quite similar to working on the Sapphire and a few other Husqvarna/Viking sewing machines.

The process for winding the bobbin and threading the machine are identical to many other machines produced by Husqvarna/Viking.

A quick reference stitch selection guide

One advantage is that you can wind the bobbin while sewing – a great time saving feature. I like the clear bobbin cover, making it possible for the user to see exactly how much thread is on the bobbin before starting a lengthy custom programmed stitch sequence.

It doesn’t, however, have some of the features available on the more costly Sapphire, Topaz, Opal or Designer Diamond Deluxe. The touch pads are very easy to use.

There are indicators beneath the stitch selection pad which allow you to identify the type of fabric you are working with. Although the Eden Rose has a manual tension adjustment, this feature helps you with that process.

Stitch Selection menu catalog

There is a designation for every possible type of fabric you can work with: light, medium or heavy woven fabric; light, medium or heavy knit fabric; and leather and suede.

The stitch selection process takes a bit more work than on many other sewing machines. First you must refer to the stitch selection guide to determine in which of the four menu categories the stitch you want is stored.

Next, toggle through the menu catalog to get to the stitch category you want and then dial up the desired stitch on the numerical keypad.

The quality of the stitches made on the Husqvarna/Viking Eden Rose 250C Limited Edition is superlative. Not only did each of the stitches I sampled come out with perfect results, I was impressed with the fact that the despite the manual tension adjustment, none of the stitches I sampled required any tension adjustment whatsoever.

Quality of the stitches is superlative

It wasn’t even necessary to adjust the stitch length or width settings in order to achieve perfect results for decorative stitches. The key is to remember to adjust the fabric type setting first.

Fabrics

• Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool
• Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet
• Knits
• Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester
• Leather/suede
• Fur
• Reptile skin
• Canvas/Twill
• Plastic/Rubber
• Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers

Accessories

• 7 Snap on presser feet
  • 2 Utility feet
  • Buttonhole foot
  • Zipper foot
  • Sensor one step buttonhole foot
  • Non-stick glide foot
  • Edging foot
  • Embroidery/darning foot
• Exclusive Limited Edition Presser Foot Kit
  • Clear piping foot
  • Braiding foot
  • Gathering foot
• 2 Non-Stick glide plates
• Light bulb remover
• Seam ripper
• Lint brush
• Screwdriver
• 2 Felt pads
• Spool caps (1 one large/one small)
• Extra bobbins
• Multipurpose tool/button reed
• Thread nets
• Needles

Accessory storage box

Maintenance

Tying Off The Loose Ends

The Husqvarna/Viking Eden Rose 250C is a great alternative to its higher priced counterparts. It has fewer stitch options and doesn’t have some of the other features found on computerized sewing machines, like a start/stop button, but it does have everything necessary to make your sewing experience a good one.

The easy to use touchpads and keypad are ergonomically situated to make your time at the sewing machine as comfortable as possible, limiting the likelihood of syndrome, back shoulder, neck and wrist pain.

If you only sew sporadically or not for lengthy stretches of time, this may not be a consideration. However, if like me, you spend hours on end in the sewing room, ergonomics become a critical factor to consider when thinking about purchasing a new sewing machine.

The stitch quality is excellent and although the selection process is a bit cumbersome, it is not impossible to master. I don’t recommend this machine for use by a child, but a teen or adult who has never used a sewing machine before might be very comfortable with this machine.

People who have been sewing for a very long time will appreciate the stitch quality and convenient features like automatic needle threading and design stitch stop.

In addition to the start/stop function, I also noted that other function features not available on the Eden Rose 250C include an automatic thread cutter [there is a manual thread cutter on the right hand side of the machine head].

The Eden Rose 250C offers only 145 decorative and utility stitch options, but who really needs several hundred stitches to choose from.

In actuality, most people never use more than a small percentage of the stitches offered on those computerized sewing machines that also come with quilting and embroidery options.

With the Eden Rose 250C, you get all the great features of these machines without the additional bells and whistles.

With the purchase of the limited edition Eden Rose 250C, you do, however, have the benefit of the exclusive Eden Rose presser foot kit, which includes a gathering, a clear piping foot and a braiding foot.

When it’s all said and done, I believe the Husqvarna/Viking Eden Rose 250C Limited Edition is a good computerized sewing machine… especially if your main focus in the sewing room is fashion sewing.

With the Eden Rose, you will not get an embroidery unit or any quilting accessories or stitch options. What you will get, however is a very good basic sewing machine that with proper care and maintenance will serve you for many years to come.

When compared to other Husqvarna/Viking computerized sewing machines, the Eden Rose 250C Limited Edition is less costly, which is another advantage if you are not looking for an embroidery or quilting machine.

If you enjoy fashion sewing and are in the market for a new computerized sewing machine, take the time to visit your Husqvarna/Viking dealer and ask for a demonstration of the Eden Rose 250C. Remember that this is a limited edition machine, so don’t wait too long before checking this one out.

While visiting Factory Sew-Vac in Lantana, Florida, I came upon a pair of Husqvarna/Viking Emerald electronic sewing machines. One was a 116 and the other, a 118. I learned that there is also a third machine in this series… the 122.

Viking Emerald 116

The only perceptible difference between these three machines is the number of stitch options and a few other features, so I reviewed only one – the 116. The differences between the two machines can be found in the ‘Features’ section of this review.

At A Glance

Dial to select the stitch options

Both the Husqvarna/Viking Emerald 116 and 118 have an emerald green motif, and dials to adjust the stitch length and width as well as a dial to select the stitch options.

The stitch selection guide slides out from the lower right corner of the machine, putting all of the stitch options at the user’s fingertips at all times.

There is also an on board ruler, a free arm and an automatic needle threader as well as a drop feed and an oversized reverse stitch button on the column.

There is an on board accessories case that, when removed, reveals a convenient free arm and a drop feed lever. The drop in bobbin cover is a great feature since you can see exactly how much thread is on the bobbin without having to remove it.

The fact that the Husqvarna/Viking Emerald 116 and 118 have a drop in bobbin is an added advantage when it comes to saving time and energy when it is necessary to rewind the bobbin.

On board accessories case

Taking it out and putting it back in place is much easier simply because all you need to do is lift out the clear cover and pop it back when you are done.

Features

• 16 decorative and utility stitch options (116)
• 18 decorative and utility stitch options (118)
• 22 decorative and utility stitch options (122)
• Needle up/down (118 and 122)
• Variable speed control (118 and 122)
• One step buttonhole
• Adjustable stitch length and width
• Built-in handle
• Adjustable presser foot pressure
• Thread cutter
• One-step buttonhole
• Built-in needle threader
• Built-in ruler
• Drop feed
• Rotary hook system
• On board accessories storage case
• Adjustable presser foot pressure
• Drop feed

Working on the Husqvarna/Viking Emerald 116

Threading the Husqvarna/Viking Emerald 116 and winding the bobbin are uncomplicated and very easy for a beginner to master. I have no doubt that a child in elementary school will be quite adept and performing these tasks after just a few closely supervised attempts.

The convenient stitch selection guide

Once the Husqvarna/Viking Emerald 116 is threaded, selecting a stitch option is as easy as sliding out the convenient stitch selection guide from beneath the column or referring to the stitch selection table at the top of the machine head.

Selecting the correct stitch was as simple as turning the dial to the assigned stitch number. I found that sewing on the Emerald was pretty much a piece of cake.

The stitch selection process is only the beginning. As I sampled various stitch options, I discovered that all of the stitches I tried were perfectly executed… evenly spaced, well-formed and sturdy.

Perfectly executed, evenly spaced, well-formed and sturdy stitches

Fabrics

• Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool
• Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet
• Knits
• Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester
• Leather/suede
• Fur
• Reptile skin
• Canvas/Twill
• Plastic/Rubber
• Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers

Accessories

• 8 snap on presser feet
• Seam ripper
• Lint brush
• Needles
• Quilting guide
• Screwdriver
• Owner’s manual
• Sewing guide/reference chart
• Hard cover

Maintenance

Tying Off The Loose Ends

The Husqvarna/Viking Emerald is a jewel of a machine. It is a great choice for beginners of any age. This machine is easy to learn to operate and easy to maintain.

It is permanently oiled and therefore, doesn’t require any lubrication. It is necessary, however, to take it to an authorized service provider for cleaning and maintenance at least once a year.
The Husqvarna/Viking Emerald is an electronic sewing machine that is ideal for working with fashion fabrics and light to medium weight wool, upholstery fabric or denim.

Although I recommend this machine for use by beginners, the Emerald is also a good choice for the home sewer who is in the market for a new machine.

It is solid, quiet and there is absolutely no vibration at all. My only criticism of the Emerald is the placement of the drop feed lever… on the back of the free arm.

In my opinion, this control should be on the front of the machine. It seems to me that the drop feed lever should have been placed on the front of the machine – perhaps near the reverse stitch button or near the stitch selection dial.

Having it on the back of the machine is very awkward if you are attaching buttons, darning or performing other tasks that require the feed dogs to be disengaged and reengaged frequently.

Even with that in mind, I readily admit that I overall, I like the Emerald. I like the way it feels when I am sewing on it. Although it is a portable sewing machine, it handles like a larger, much heavier, machine.

Solid construction and the excellent stitch quality

The solid construction is, no doubt, attributable to the Swedish ingenuity that the Husqvarna/Viking brand has been known for over past 140 years.

The Husqvarna/Viking Emerald is affordable and one of the most user friendly machines I have seen in the current Husqvarna/Viking inventory. I like the ease with which it is set up and the stitches selected and changed.

I like the way it feels when I am working on it and I especially like the fact that the Emerald is quiet and there is no vibration.

This solid construction and the excellent stitch quality are the two most important factors any home sewer looks for in a sewing machine. Because of that, I encourage everyone to take a look at this affordable electronic sewing machine.

If you are interested in purchasing one of the three machines in the Husqvarna/Viking Emerald line, make a point of visiting your local authorized Husqvarna/Viking dealer and asking for a demonstration.

I believe it is an excellent choice for anyone whose sewing projects are primarily clothing and accessories and small home décor accents.

While strolling through Factory Sew-Vac in Lantana, Florida, I came across a Husqvarna/Viking Platinum 730. It wasn’t until I got home to see what the website had to say about it that I learned this machine has been on the market for a very long time.

Viking Platinum 730

At A Glance

The Husqvarna/Viking Platinum 730 looks very much like practically all of the other brand new machines offered by the folks at Husqvarna/Viking.

Monochromatic LCD screen

It has a monochromatic LCD screen and some of the touch controls that are offered on later model sewing, quilting and embroidery machines like fix, stop, and reverse stitch.

I couldn’t help but notice a couple of obvious omissions, however. The start/stop and presser foot up and down buttons were conspicuously absent.

Aside from that, the single most noticeable difference is that on the Platinum 730, these buttons are on the right panel rather than above the needle, where they are located on the crop of newer machines.

The touch pads for identifying the fabric you are working with help make sure the tension adjustment is just right each time you sew are located in the exact same position as on newer machines.

Another very important difference is the size and location of the presser foot lift. On newer sewing machines, the presser foot lift is behind the needle to the right.

On the Platinum 730, the presser foot lift is a huge lever – approximately two or three inches wide – directly behind the needle.

There is also an on board ruler, a see through bobbin cover that lets you actually see when the bobbin thread is low, a stitch selection guide inside the lid and an extra spool pin that can be used when winding the bobbin while sewing.

The Platinum 730 also has a brightly lit work surface, an on board accessories case that removes to reveal the functional free arm and the drop feed function is conveniently located on the very front of the machine.

Features

• 42 decorative and utility stitch options
• 2 one step buttonholes
• Sewing advisor
• On board needle threader
• Left/right mirror imaging
• Drop in bobbin
• Reverse stitch
• Design stop
• Drop feed
• Manual tension adjustment
• Presser foot pressure adjustment
• Free arm

Working on the Husqvarna/Viking Platinum 730

Following the threading guides and the guides for winding the bobbin make preparing the Husqvarna/Viking Platinum 730 for work a breeze. Placing the bobbin in the drop in case is just as easy.

Threading and winding the bobbin guides are easy to follow

The menu icon next to the LCD screen is used to switch between utility and decorative stitch options. Utility stitches are clearly indicated on the numerical touch pad.

Clearly indicated utility stitches

Tension adjustment dials

To gain access to the utility stitches, make sure the menu is set at ‘1’. If one of the decorative stitches depicted inside the lid are wanted, touch the menu icon on the touch pad, located next to the monochromatic LCD screen.

The function key on the touchpad allows you to choose one of three settings… normal, repeat or program. When it is set in the normal mode, you can choose your stitches from either menu and sew as usual.

If you want to repeat a decorative stitch, merely put the function setting on repeat. If, however, you want to produce a set stitch pattern or sequence, use the program function.

I found that although I used the correct fabric setting, it was sometimes necessary to still adjust the tension manually in order to achieve perfect results when working with very thin fabric.

This is no different than working with a machine that does not give you the luxury of telling it what type of fabric you are working with. This is, in my opinion, a very minor inconvenience.

However, a person with little or no sewing experience might get a bit frustrated if they are not aware that it is sometimes necessary to adjust the tension manually.

With the proper tension setting, I find that the Husqvarna/ Viking Platinum 730 produces perfect stitches. You will find that they are well formed, secure and very well defined. The default setting was ideal for the utility and decorative stitches as well.

Well formed, secure and very well defined stitches

Fabrics

• Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool
• Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet
• Knits
• Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester
• Leather/suede
• Fur
• Reptile skin
• Canvas/Twill
• Plastic/Rubber
• Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers

Accessories

• Snap on presser feet
• 2 zigzag feet
• Buttonhole foot
• Blindhem foot
• Zipper foot
• Teflon foot
• Edging foot
• Sensor buttonhole foot
• Lint brush
• Stitch plate opener
• Screwdriver
• Seam ripper
• Clearance plate
• Bobbins
• Felt pad
• Light bulb remover
• Thread net

Accessories

Maintenance

Tying Off The Loose Ends

The Husqvarna/Viking Platinum 730 is an excellent machine for anyone who has never before worked on a computerized sewing machine. Although I hesitate to recommend computerized sewing machines for use by children, I have no reservations when it comes to this one.

With proper supervision, I have no doubt that a child as young as seven or eight will be able to operate this machine in no time at all.

It is extremely user friendly. Even people who have been sewing for decades but are technologically challenged will have very little trouble learning to use this machine.

It does not have some of the features that are standard on other computerized machines, like a start/stop button, buttons to raise and lower the presser foot, or to snip the threads for you, but it does have an on board thread cutter on the rear and all of the essential controls one needs to have an enjoyable sewing experience. This machine is solid, makes very little noise and does not vibrate at all.

Overall a solid machine

The seam guide on the Husqvarna/Viking Platinum 730 is very small with only two markings on it. If you purchase this one, you may want to pull out that old magnetic seam guide you tucked away a while ago.

To sum it all up, the only true shortcomings I found on the Husqvarna/Viking Platinum 730 are some of the very same things those of us who have been sewing for a long time grew accustomed to ‘back in the day’ before sewing machines were built to do so many things that we were trained to do for ourselves in sewing class.

If, like me you are an ‘old school’ home sewer, if you are accustomed to a mechanical sewing machine and want to add some computer technology to your sewing room without going all the way, or if you are a beginner who may or may not be intimidated by some of the high tech computerized sewing machines on the market, you should take a very close look at the Husqvarna/Viking Platinum 730 before making a final decision as to which computerized sewing machine to purchase.

I had read and heard a lot about different models of the Husqvarna/Viking Ruby, but it wasn’t until visiting the Factory Sew-Vac that I actually had an opportunity to review one.

Husqvarna/Viking Designer Ruby

The model they had on display was the Designer Ruby, a combination sewing and embroidery machine with nearly 1000 total utility, decorative, quilt and alphanumeric stitch options.

At A Glance

One of the first things I noticed about the Designer Ruby was the fact that there was no on board stitch selection guide. I had become accustomed to this feature being on nearly all of the machines in the Husqvarna/Viking sewing and embroidery line.

Conveniently situated function touch pads

The Designer Ruby has all of the significant features, however: a monochromatic LCD touch screen with a side-mounted stylus to use when selecting stitches, adjusting stitch length and width and performing other tasks on the touch screen.

There are on board LED lights that assure you of a well-lit work surface with no shadows. Conveniently situated function touch pads above the needle include start/stop; presser foot up/down; needle position; design stop; fix; and speed control.

There is also a butterfly needle plate with seam guides on both sides of the needle; an on board ruler that gives measurements in both inches and centimeters; and a drop feed lever conveniently located on the front of the machine.

Features

• Nearly 1000 decorative and utility stitch options
  • 18 specialty stitch menus
  • 6 alphanumeric sewing fonts
  • 4 alphanumeric embroidery fonts in different sizes
  • More than 300 embroidery designs
  • 147 on board designs
  • 175 embroidery designs on CD

  2 USB ports

• Sensor presser foot lift
• Sensor presser foot pressure
• Sensor presser foot pivot
• Automatic jump stitch trim
• Needle up/down
• On board thread cutters for upper thread and bobbin winder
• On board needle threader
• Free arm
• On board accessory storage with removable bobbin tray
• Function controls
• Needle positon
• Start/stop
• Thread cut
• Design stop
• Fix
• Presser foot up/down
• On board ruler in centimeters and inches
• Butterfly needle plate with seam guides on both sides of the needle
• Bright LED lights
• On board help
• Adjustable stitch length and width
• Memory and file manager
• Rotate design in 1o increments
• 2 USB ports

Working on the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Ruby

The main thing to remember is this machine will not operate in the sewing mode if the embroidery unit is attached. If the unit is attached when you turn the machine on, and you want to sew, you must remove it before you do anything else.

On board guides make winding the bobbin and threading the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Ruby as easy as possible. One the threads are in place, the next task is to identify the type of fabric you are working with.

On board guides make winding the bobbin and threading as easy as possible

Buttons on the lower edge of the touchpad on the column are designated to identify fabrics as follows:

18 different stitch menus to choose from

A – lightweight woven
B – medium weight woven
C – heavy woven
D – lightweight knit
E – medium weight knit
F – heavy weight knit
G – leather/suede/vinyl

After determining the type of fabric you will be working with, the next step is to select your stitch. There are 18 different stitch menus to choose from.

Use the menu button on the touch screen to identify the menu your stitch is located in. This could be a challenge since there is no on-board stitch selection guide. There is, however, a separate user’s guide which shows each stitch and the menu where it is located.

The good news is once you determine which stitch you want and make your selection, the touch screen immediately shows you what the stitch will look like, which presser foot to use, and the default length and width settings which can be adjusted to suit your specific needs by using the plus and minus signs closest to the length or width icons.

I sampled several utility and decorative stitch options and was pleased with the results as well as the way the Designer Ruby handled. There is no vibration and very little noise.

I have no doubt that if I were working in a room where a television or radio was on, I would not have to increase the volume in order to hear comfortably.

The quality of the stitches was very, very good. In fact, much better than some other machines I have reviewed in the same category as the Designer Ruby.

Good quality of the stitches

Fabrics

• Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool
• Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet
• Knits
• Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester
• Leather/suede
• Fur
• Reptile skin
• Canvas/Twill
• Plastic/Rubber
• Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers

Accessories

• 12 Snap on presser feet
  • Utility foot
  • Decorative stitch foot
  • Buttonhole foot
  • Blindhem foot
  • Zipper foot
  • Non-stick glide foot
  • Edging foot
  • Quilting foot
  • Embroidery/darning foot
  • Side motion foot
  • Decorative stitch foot
  • Sensor one-step buttonhole foot with self-adhesive glide pads

Accessories

• Stylus
• Thread net
• Edge/ Quilting guide
• Felt pad (2)
• USB embroidery stick (1 GB)
• Screwdriver
• Seam ripper
• Lint Brush
• 4 spool caps (2 large/1 medium/1 small)
• Spool cap, medium
• Multipurpose tool/ Button reed
• 16 Hoop clips
• 11 Bobbins
• Pictogram™ Pen
• 2 Embroidery hoops
  • DESIGNER™ Royal Hoop (360×200)
  • DESIGNER™ Splendid Square Hoop (120×120)1:8
• 5D™ Embroidery Machine Communication CD
• Carrying Case (attached on the machine upon delivery)
• Scissors
• USB PC cable
• Needles
• Embroidery thread
• Sample fabric and stabilizer
• DESIGNER RUBY™ Sampler book

Maintenance

Tying Off The Loose Ends

The Husqvarna/Viking Designer Ruby is one of those sewing and embroidery machines that you can’t help but like. It isn’t nearly as costly as the Designer Diamond Deluxe or other sewing and embroidery machines made by Husqvarna/Viking.

It doesn’t have many of the features that some of them may have, and offer fewer stitch options, but with a total of almost 1000 stitches to choose from, who’s counting? Could you really use all of those stitches anyway?

My guess is most people who purchase machines with so many stitch options will probably play around until they find a few that they really like and stick with those nearly all the time.

Like most other computerized sewing and embroidery machines, I do not recommend the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Ruby for beginners of any age.

I do, however, believe this is an excellent choice for anyone who likes machine embroidery and is in the market for a machine that perhaps costs a little less than the top of the line Designer Diamond Deluxe.

The Husqvarna/Viking Designer Ruby has all of the plusses that one would expect from a computerized sewing and embroidery machine. My only hesitation is the fact that there is no on board stitch selection guide.

No on board stitch selection guide

One would think that with so many choices, the manufacturer would make choosing a stitch as easy as possible for the user. Like I said, there is a detailed guide inside the user’s manual.

That means, though, that you must constantly keep the manual at your side. The only alternative is to sit down and scroll through every single stitch menu every time you want to change a stitch.

No doubt, you will get accustomed to the groupings and in time be able to go directly to the menu you want, but that takes time that some people may not want to spend on such a mundane task. This is why I give it only three stars for ease of operation.

Aside from that drawback, I think this is a very good machine – one that just about anyone would be pleased with and proud to own. Anyone who knows their way around a sewing machine will likely be very happy with the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Ruby.

Bear in mind, though, that this machine is definitely not to be used by children younger than 12 or 14 years of age, and I repeat it isn’t for the beginner of any age.

There are lots and lots of sewing and embroidery machines on the market today. Some are very good and some are so bad you will want to toss it out the window within one hour of opening the carton.

If you are seriously considering purchasing a new sewing and embroidery machine, I urge you to visit your local Husqvarna/Viking dealer and ask for a demonstration of the Designer Ruby before making a final decision as to which machine to introduce to your sewing room.

Rumors have been floating about that White sewing machines and sergers were no longer being made for decades. For a while they were being produced by the Singer Sewing Machine Company.

However, after Singer became part of SVP – Singer/Viking/Pfaff, the White brand has seemed to disappear for good. For several years now, I have been reading about White sewing machines and sergers, but had not been able to get my hands on one made after the 1960s.

White Speedylock Model 1600

It wasn’t until a stroll through the used machine department of Factory Sew-Vac in Lake Worth, Florida, that I came across a White Speedylock Model 1600 serger that I had an opportunity to review a White machine that was made after the 1980s. According to the information I found on the web, the White Speedylock Model 1600 was made sometime between 2003 and 2007.

At A Glance

The White Speedylock Model 1600 looks pretty much like all the other sergers manufactured at the time with one glaring exception. There is a huge dial on the left side of the machine that controls the differential feed.

The markings on the dial clearly shows how easy it is to select the settings for stitch narrowing and widening or to handle sewing curves of any size or angle and to make fancy edges for tops, dresses and skirts.

When you open the looper door, you will see an uncomplicated, easy to follow threading path that is in my opinion, designed to help make the beginner very comfortable with the whole process of working with a serger.

Easy to follow threading path

I was disappointed, however, to discover that there is no on board storage for frequently used accessories like tweezers, a needle threader or extra needles… the things you need to have at your fingertips when working on any serger. The accessories, however, are all stowed in a convenient case that holds everything you will need very neatly.

Features

• Color-coded threading system
• Free arm
• Safety switch
• Differential feed
• Adjustable stitch length and width
• Adjustable stitch from 1 to 5mm
• Built-in needle cushion
• Built in carrying handle

Working on the White Speedylock Model 1600

Threading the White Speedylock Model 1600 and getting it ready to go to work was easy. Unlike many other sergers made around the same time, the easy to follow thread guide inside the looper coupled with the lay in tension system make threading simple enough for someone who has never before seen or worked on a serger to be completely at ease.

I have very little doubt that a child as young as ten years of age would be able to master this task with just a little bit of adult supervision.

The differential feed and stitch length/width adjustment dial on the side is easy to understand and even easier to manipulate. Somehow, even though I’m lefthanded, I think this control would be more efficient if it were placed on the right side instead.

Differential feed and stitch length/width adjustment dial

The workspace is not the largest I have ever seen on a serger, but it is large enough so that working on the Speedylock 1600 is not uncomfortable or cramped. The free arm is an added benefit. Lots of sergers don’t have this feature and it is certainly appreciated when working on cuffs, collars and navigating small spaces.

The stitches are well formed and sturdy. While that is definitely important, it is not the only important thing about using a sewing machine or serger.

Well formed and sturdy stitches

My problem with this serger is the amount of noise and vibration. It is easy to understand why they put large suction discs on the bottom of the Speedylock 1600. Without them, this thing would surely shake itself right off of any table you put it on.

The noise is nearly unbearable. If you were trying to watch television, talk on the phone or listen to music while working on this serger, you would have to turn the volume level up so high it would probably hurt your ears when you take your foot off the pedal.

Fabrics

• Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool
• Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet
• Knits
• Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester
• Leather/suede
• Fur
• Reptile skin
• Canvas/Twill
• Plastic/Rubber
• Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers

Accessories

The White Speedylock Model 1600 that I reviewed was used and did not have all of the accessories that were included when the machine was originally purchased.

According to the owner’s manual – which, by the way, was available to me – the original owner received the following items with the purchase of this machine:

• Snap-on presser foot
• Thread nets (4)
• Spool caps (4)
• Allen wrench
• Screwdriver
• Tweezers
• Soft cover
• Oil dispenser
• Extra needles
• Lint brush
• Waste bin
• Owner’s manual
• Instructional video tape

Accessories

Maintenance

Tying Off The Loose Ends

If it were not for the noise and vibration, I would certainly give the White Speedylock Model 1600 a higher rating. However, when a machine makes this much noise and vibrates as much as this one does, you have a clear signal that it is not made well.

Yes. The stitches were great; but remember I reviewed it in a store where it was refurbished before being put on display for sale. I have no doubt whatsoever that the people at the Factory Sew-Vac did an excellent job in bringing this serger back to its original state.

The challenge for me would be how long could I expect it to operate in this pristine state when I know it doesn’t have a lot going for it ‘under the hood’?

The White Speedylock Model 1600 that I reviewed is not the best second hand serger one might purchase. If you decide you want to purchase this one, you should be aware that you will most likely be taking it in for servicing more frequently than a machine with more sturdy construction.

Having said that – I think the Speedylock 1600 is a good machine for youngsters who have already mastered the use of a sewing machine and are ready to move on to serging to learn how to use a serger and what it is capable of doing. The threading process is more than just user friendly. In my opinion, it is one of the easiest to thread sergers I have seen.

This machine could also be a viable choice for someone who wants to have access to a serger, but does not intend to use it frequently. Given the fact that there is so much noise and the high level of vibration, I am compelled to add that I would not recommend the White Speedylock Model 1600 for steady or constant use.

If you are in the market for a serger just to use to teach a young person how to use a serger or if you are looking for a serger to use every once in a while, this might be a good choice.

However, there are lots of other low cost used sergers out there that are better built and capable of rendering many years of dependable service without exposing you to the possibility of hearing loss and vibrating so violently.

It is truly unfortunate that the White Speedylock Model 1600 is so noisy and has such a serious vibration problem. Were it not for these very troubling attributes, I would not hesitate to give it a better rating.

Not everybody wants or needs a top of the line serger. There is definitely a place for the White Speedylock Model 1600. I just don’t believe it is a machine that most people would be happy with.

If you think you can handle those two flaws, go ahead and get one for yourself… that is if you come across one. Since it was introduced about ten years ago, I have no doubt that there are still plenty more White Speedylock Model 1600s out there.

Some are probably still in use in their original homes while others, like the one I reviewed, have been traded in and are available for sale in some of the many new and used sewing machine stores across the nation while others are undoubtedly available for sale via the internet. Regardless of where you find yours, I certainly would not recommend paying more than perhaps $100 or $150.

The stitch quality is good and it is easy to thread, making the White Speedylock Model 1600 a good machine for someone to learn how to use a serger. However, like they say, you get what you pay for. In the case of the Speedylock 1600, you shouldn’t pay a whole lot because you won’t get much in terms of performance.

They say there’s a first time for everything, and I concede that this is the very first time I came across a Singer that was not listed anywhere on the Singer website. Nevertheless, I can attest that the Singer 14T970C cover stitch machine does indeed exist.

I hand my hot little hands on it and the folks at the Factory Sew-Vac in Lake Worth, Florida, where I reviewed this particular machine confirmed not once but twice that I have the correct model number.

Singer Coverstitch 14T970C

They were unable to tell me why it was not listed on the Singer website but informed me that they acquired it at a Singer dealers’ conference where they saw a demonstration and were able to test it for themselves before bringing it into the store.

At A Glance

Differential feed control dial

The Singer 14T970C serger looks pretty much like any other serger. It can operate with 2, 3 or 4 threads and has an easy to use lay in threading system. There is also a differential feed control dial on the right hand side of the machine and stitch length and width adjustment dials on the left.

An extremely easy to follow color coded threading guide is on a sticker inside the looper door. It also has a seam guide and a brightly lit work surface that illumines the oversized workspace.

Features

• 4 Cover stitch – 4 stitch options:
  • Narrow
  • Wide
  • Triple cover stitch
  • Double stitching
• Adjustable stitch length and width
• Differential feed
• Adjustable presser foot pressure
• Large workspace
• Sews with 1, 2, or 3 needles

Working on the Singer 14T970C

The most positive thing I could possibly say about the Singer 14T970C is that is by far easier to thread than any other coverstitch machine I have ever encountered. The easy to understand and follow color coded threading guide is so simple, I have no doubt a child in the second or third grade could master the task in little or no time at all.

Color coded threading guide

The lay in tension discs, coupled with the simple design of the looper mechanism are definite advantages. A threading system that is as uncomplicated as this one would not only be good for the beginner, but for the advanced home sewer as well… especially one who might be advancing in years and not want to deal with the complex task of threading a more intricately designed machine.

I had a real problem getting the hang of the way the presser foot is controlled. Who would have thought that anyone would install a presser foot control that you push up to lower and push down to raise?

A brightly lit work surface

That’s exactly what I found on the Singer 14T970C. To raise the presser foot, you must push the lever down. To lower it, push the lever up.

For this review, I sampled the three thread, two needle cover stitch option. The stitches were what I call ‘passable’ when set at the shorter length. However, as I widened the length, the quality of the stitches improved significantly.

When using the shorter stitch option, the stitches appeared to be somewhat buried in the fabric. As I lengthened the stitches, they become more pronounced and more clearly defined. It should be noted here that during the course of this review, I sample both woven and knit fabric with the same results.

Stitch quality

Fabrics

• Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool
• Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet
• Knits
• Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester
• Leather/suede
• Fur
• Reptile skin
• Canvas/Twill
• Plastic/Rubber
• Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers

Accessories

• Needles
• Tweezers
• Oil dispenser
• Needle threader
• Lint brush
• Screwdriver
• Allen wrench
• Soft cover
• Owner’s manual

Maintenance

Tying Off The Loose Ends

The Singer 14T970C is one of the better new Singers I have reviewed in several years, if not the best and it isn’t all that great. Although it is admittedly easy to thread, it is noisy and there is a little vibration as well… not so much as to make using the machine uncomfortable, but a little more than most other coverstith machines.

I am not thrilled with the fact that the shorter stitches are not as well defined as the longer stitches, but the truth of the matter is that we seldom use very short cover stitches anyway.

In my opinion, the seam guide could be better. It is simply made up of raised markings on the looper door. I wonder how much more it would have cost to paint those markings red or black so they could be seen more easily.

Looper door

With this in mind, I would say that most people who purchase this machine might be pleased with it if they can put up with just one thing… the presser foot lever.

The only other real issue if have with the 14T790C is the way the presser foot is raised and lowered. To me, if you want something to go up, you move the control lever up not down and vice versa.

If the threading system is my favorite feature on this machine, the way you raise and lower the presser foot is the least desirable feature. I don’t know who came up with that one, but they really need to take it back to the drawing board.

Although I was unable to find the Singer 14T970C cover stitch machine on the Singer US website, I did find it on the internet. Apparently it is available in parts of Europe and Asia, but not widely distributed here in the US.

Aside from the one I reviewed at the Factory Sew-Vac, I was only able to locate one other US vendor and that dealer is located in South Florida as well. It appears to me that the folks at Singer are beginning to make this machine available throughout the US after testing it abroad.

If this is the case, I have only a couple of things to say. First of all, since the 14T970C is better than just about every other new Singer sewing machine or serger that has been sold in the US the last few years, what other goodies are the Singer people reserving for their foreign market?

Next, when will it be widely available on the US market and when will it be listed on the Singer US website so we can read all about it and compare it with other machines in the Singer line?

In the meantime, you can do what I did… google Singer 14T970C and scroll down to a link that allows you to translate the text. This process can be a bit time consuming, but well worth it if you are genuinely interested in the 14T970C.

I made every attempt to include everything you might want to ask about this machine here in this review. However, it was impossible for me to download a manual for this machine. While attempting to get a good translation online, I did discover that it is also available for sale via amazon.com in Germany, but not the US.

I like the fact that this machine is so very easy to thread. The way it is built makes cleaning the loopers very easy. Let’s face it, a lot of us don’t use our sergers or cover lock machines as much as we might because threading and cleaning them are such tedious chores.

I am not overly enthused about the way the Singer 14T790C feels, however. It does feel like a solid machine, although not as solidly constructed as perhaps some others in its class, but it’s better than many of the newer Singers I reviewed over the last couple of years.

When compared to other Singers the 14T790C is light years above just about everything Singer has produced for the US market in quite some time. Hopefully, this is a sign that we can begin to expect Singer sewing machines and sergers to start to improve and attempt to reclaim the reputation that Singer had for so many years before its decline.

Anyone who has been sewing for any length of time know that Singer was the go to brand for sewing machines. Singer was the first company to produce sewing machines for home use and set a standard that every other sewing machine company strived for.

After so many sales of the company from one corporation to another, the Singer name has fallen to the bottom of the heap in terms of quality and workmanship. Those of us who learned to sew on Singers and came to love and respect the Singer name can only hope that the 14T790C is the first step toward turning that around and restoring the Singer name to its rightful place in the world of home sewing.

Necchi is one of those sewing machine brands that was once very popular and then sort of faded away from the scene. If you are at all familiar with the Necchi reputation, then you can just imagine how pleased I was to finally be able to review a used Necchi Prolock PL 1020 serger.

Necchi ProLock PL 1020

It wasn’t until I came upon this one in the used machines department of the Factory Sew-Vac in Lake Worth, Florida that I had actually seen a Necchi in about 15 years or so.

For those who are unfamiliar with the Necchi brand name, Necchi us an Italian brand that was known for its unique designs. Necchi sewing machines were among the very first ever items endorsed by celebrities.

Sophia Loren, for example had an endorsement contract with Necchi. Another unique trait of Necchi sewing machines was that they were so artistically advanced that they were actually on display in art galleries and museums.

Necchi sewing machines and sergers are still being produced; but, finding an authorized dealer is difficult. The Necchi dealer nearest to my home is about 30 miles away.

Those dealerships that do offer Necchis for sale, however, also provide all of the accessories and service necessary to maintain the machines they sell.

At A Glance

The first thing that catches your eye on the Necchi Prolock PL 1020 are the colorful dials and decals. While many sergers designed for use in the home have color coded threading details on the front, I think the Necchi ProLock PL 1020 is the first one I’ve seen with such eye pleasing pastels.

For some reason, the softer shades of pink, yellow, blue and green seem to be more inviting and soothing than the standard primary shades of red, yellow, blue and green.

There is an interesting decal on the left side which shows depictions of controls for the differential feed and stitch length and width adjustment dials.

Interesting decal on the left side

When you open the door there, you will see all of these controls. I don’t know why these essential controls are hidden behind a door. It seems to me that they should be easier to get to.

Essential controls are hidden behind a door

The easy to follow threading directions are clearly displayed inside the looper door. There is, however, no space for on board storage of essential serger accessories like tweezers and a needle threader.

Features

• Differential feed
• Adjustable stitch length and width
• Adjustable presser foot pressure
• Adjustable cutting width
• Electronic speed control
• Sew with 3 or 4 threads
• Easy to use color coded threading guide

Working on the Necchi ProLock PL 1020

The threading guide on the Necchi ProLock PL 1020 is by far one of the easiest to understand and follow that I have ever seen. I am almost tempted to say that it is childproof. In fact, the schematic actually looks as if it was drawn by a child.

Easy to understand threading guide

The color coding and extremely clear details are the most user friendly directions I have seen in a very, very long time.

Once the threading process is complete, the fun part begins. If you want to make any adjustments to the stitch length or width or change the setting of the differential feed, it is necessary to literally stop what you’re doing and open the door on the left side of the machine to gain access to the controls.

A three thread, one needle chainstitch

While this might be somewhat pleasing to some peoples’ eyes, it is definitely not efficient for a busy sewing room.

The quality of the stitches made on the Necchi ProLock PL 1020 is very good. For this survey, I sampled a three thread, one needle chainstitch. While sewing, I noticed that the machine is solidly built and there is virtually no vibration at all. I must add here that I the ergonomic design actually made me feel very comfortable while working on the ProLock PL 1020.

Good stitch quality

Fabrics

• Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool
• Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet
• Knits
• Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester
• Leather/suede
• Fur
• Reptile skin
• Canvas/Twill
• Plastic/Rubber
• Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers

Accessories

The Necchi ProLock PL 1020 that I reviewed did not have a full complement of accessories. However, a search of the web yielded that the following accessories were included with the purchase of a brand new machine.

• Tweezers
• Needles
• Cone holders
• Needle threader
• Screwdriver
• Allen wrench
• Lint brush
• Suction cups for the base
• Dust cover

Maintenance

Tying Off The Loose Ends

When you consider the ease with which the Necchi ProLock PL 1020 is threaded, I would say that it is a good machine for beginners who already know how to operate a sewing machine and are ready to move up to the next level.

However, as easy as this machine is to thread, it is almost equally as difficult to operate. In my opinion, placing vital controls like the differential feed and stitch length and width adjustment dials behind a door is simply unacceptable.

For one thing, I you have a serger table like mine, you couldn’t even use it because the door is inaccessible because of the table design.

It’s one thing to have to move the serger in order to clean it. It’s another whole proposition when you have to move it in order to change a stitch setting.

Drawback – Dials behind a door is simply unacceptable

This is a waste of valuable time when you are busily working on a deadline for a client and don’t have a lot of time to waste.

I like the quality of the stitches and absolutely love the threading system; and the overall design makes cleaning away lint and dust from the looper area a cinch. But that all falls short when I look at the controls.

Some may think of this as a very small issue and to those people, I say more power to you. In addition to being easy to thread and producing great stitches, a sewing machine or serger must be user friendly. Hiding anything that one needs to get the job done is anything but user friendly in my opinion.

The Necchi brand has and continues to have a great reputation and a loyal following as far as I can tell. Necchi sewing machines and sergers are now being manufactured in Japan, which is a good thing since it is a known fact that Japanese made sewing machines and sergers continue to maintain the superior quality and workmanship that they were known for several decades ago.

The used serger that I reviewed can be purchased for less than $200, which is, in my opinion, a very good deal. As I said, I would not purchase it because of the design.

Even if I did not own the serger table that I now have, I would not purchase it because of the inconvenience involved. Yes, there are some times when I can complete an entire garment on a serger without having to adjust the stitch length or width or without having to change the setting on the differential feed, but those instances are very few and far between.

Having to open a door and close it every time I need to make an adjustment is to me the height of inefficiency. Mine is a very busy sewing room and I simply don’t have time for that sort of inconvenience.

I have absolutely no doubt that anyone who actually uses a serger for all that it can offer would feel the same way. Because of this one challenge, I can recommend the Necchi ProLock PL 1020 only for the beginner or for someone who uses their serger for very basic tasks only.

If this description fits you or someone on your shopping list, then you might want to try to find a Necchi ProLock PL 1020 for yourself. You might be able to find one on ebay or at retailer in your local area that specializes in used and refurbished sewing machines and sergers.

If I had not seen the Pfaff Hobbylock 2.5 while visiting Cynthia’s Fine Fabrics in Tamarac, Florida, I never would have known about it at all. This four thread serger cannot be found anywhere on the Pfaff website.

Pfaff Hobbylock 2.5

Since it is listed on the Pfaff Netherlands website, I can’t figure out if the folks at SVP, the parent company that produces and distributes Singer, Viking and Pfaff sewing machines, are testing the Pfaff Hobbylock 2.5 in the US market or if they simply have not updated the Pfaff US website.

At A Glance

Dials on the right are for adjusting the speed and the ATD

The eye catching Pfaff Hobbylock 2.5 is sleek with smooth lines that give it a look that resembles a coverlock machine more than a serger.

There are no tension discs or dials because of the lay in threading system. The next thing I noticed were the five small dials… two on the right side and three on the left.

The dials on the left control the presser foot pressure, differential feed and cutting width. The dials on the right are for adjusting the speed and the ATD – auto tension dial.

Inside the looper door is an easy to follow threading guide, and a table that graphically describes the threading paths for the most popular stitch options… in many ways far less complicated than older sergers, and storage space for tweezers and a needle threader – the most frequently used accessories needed for operating any serger or coverlock machine.

Dials on the left control the presser foot pressure, differential feed and cutting width

There is also a large work surface and bright lighting that is placed in such a way that shadows are eliminated.

Features

• 15 stitch options
• Sews up to 1200 stitches per minute
• 2 sewing speeds
• Differential feed
• Adjustable stitch length and width
• Adjustable presser foot pressure
• Adjustable cutting width

Working on the Pfaff Hobbylock 2.5

For this review, I sampled the four thread chainstitch. However, making that choice was not an easy one. The Pfaff Hobbylock 2.5 has a clearly detailed threading guide and stitch selection guide right inside the looper door.

Clearly detailed threading guide

With this threading guide and stitch selection guide, a beginner could learn to operate the Pfaff Hobbylock 2.5 with just a little bit of hands on instruction.

The lay in tension discs plus simplified threading system have taken nearly all of the trepidation out of threading sergers that once was the biggest reason people shied away from acquiring a serger.

In addition to the easy to follow threading guide, the dials on the sides – Auto Tension Dial, differential feed, presser foot pressure adjustment dial and stitch length and width controls, all work together to help make your serging experience easier.

The stitches formed by the Pfaff Hobbylock 2.5 are evenly spaced, clearly defined and well formed. I have no doubt that by following the instructions detailed on the stitch selection guide anyone who uses this machine will find that all 15 of the available stitch options will be equally satisfying.

Stitch selection guide

The Hobbylock 2.5 is solidly built, quiet and has no vibration… which makes working on this machine even more enjoyable.

Evenly spaced, clearly defined and well formed

Taking care of the Pfaff Hobbylock 2.5 is easier than some older serger models as well. The simplified internal mechanism is easy to access and therefore easy to care for.

Simplified internal mechanism

Cleaning this machine after every use should take no more than a few minutes. When compared with older models, you could expect to spend about five to fifteen minutes to perform the same task.

Fabrics

• Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool
• Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet
• Knits
• Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester
• Leather/suede
• Fur
• Reptile skin
• Canvas/Twill
• Plastic/Rubber
• Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers

Accessories

• Screwdriver
• Extra upper blade
• Spool discs
• Oil dispenser
• Allen wrench
• Tweezers
• 4 Spool Holders
• Dust cover
• Lint brushes
• Waste tray
• Needles
• Interactive instructional DVD
• Optional extension table

Maintenance

Tying Off The Loose Ends

Anyone who gets an opportunity to work on the Pfaff Hobbylock 2.5 will be pleasantly surprised at how good it feels and how well it performs. The stitch quality is better than expected as well as the way it performs.

Ironically this is the second time that I have come across a machine made by SVP [Singer – Viking – Pfaff] that has apparently been available in Europe for a while and is just now beginning to be offered in the United States.

The other machine – the Singer Coverstitch 14T970C – turned out to be much better than any Singer machine I have reviewed in more than 3 years. I must say that reviewing the Hobbylock 2.5 was a more pleasant experience than reviewing other Pfaffs as well.

Perhaps this is signal that the folks at SVP are waking up to the fact that folks here in the good ole USA are worthy of better quality machines just as our European counterparts.

I think the Hobbylock 2.5 is a good choice for sewers at all skill levels. The beginner would definitely be able to benefit from the easier to master threading system.

Seasoned home sewers will most likely be even more pleased with the threading system because they have a frame of reference. After having worked on sergers with intricate, complicated threading systems, they would certainly appreciate the simplified threading on the Pfaff Hobbylock 2.5.

But that’s not the only thing that is simplified. The five on board control dials make it possible to change from one stitch option to another without having to stop to change thread paths, switch needle plates or make other mechanical adjustments. The only challenge is to remember which dial to turn and where it is located.

Although I believe the Pfaff Hobbylock 2.5 is a good choice for beginners, I do not recommend its use by anyone younger than 10 or 12 years of age. Tiny fingers might get I the way of the blades, and we don’t want to discourage anyone from sewing because they had an unfortunate mishap when they were very young.

Taking this one home will not break the bank. The Hobbylock 2.5 is not one of those throw away machines. It is by no means what I would call inexpensive; however, it is very reasonably priced. The MSRP is $699. A visit to your local Pfaff dealer is definitely worth the time and effort.

If you are interested in adding the Pfaff Hobbylock 2.5 to your own sewing room, you owe it to yourself to visit your local Pfaff dealer and ask for a demonstration. No doubt, they will be willing to work with you to get you the best deal possible.

Unfortunately, you cannot read much about it on the internet before going to the store. I could not find an English version the Pfaff Hobbylock 2.5 marketing material.

I did, however, find plenty of information on sites generated in the Netherlands. Thank goodness for the Google ‘translation’ option. With that I was able to get a translation of the main page, but there was no way to translate the brochure, manual or other Pfaff promotional material about the Hobbylock 2.5

Of course, if you speak Dutch, you have nothing to be concerned about. Just go to the Pfaff website, select the Netherlands and read all about it.

When I first read about the release of the Pfaff Creative 4.5, I was anxious to review it and made a special trip to Cynthia’s Fine Fabrics in Tamarac, Florida, the first chance I got.

Pfaff Creative 4.5

This fully computerized sewing and embroidery machine is the latest in the Pfaff family of embroidery machines.

At A Glance

The Pfaff Creative 4.5 has one of the most eye-catching motifs I’ve seen on a sewing machine in quite a while. The entire front panel is a deep shade of purple that reminds me of a concord grape.

The pink accents only add to the aesthetics. There is a stitch selection guide inside the lid that conceals the thread and bobbin winder and a large butterfly seam guide on the needle plate.

Stitch selection guide inside the lid

The Pfaff Creative 4.5 also has a large backlit color touchscreen and a stylus mounted on front. In addition to the on board accessories case, there is also a large embroidery unit that provides additional storage space for bobbins and accessories.

The detachable IDT guarantees that extra thick fabric and multiple layers go through the feed dogs evenly and smoothly. Function buttons above the needle include: start/stop; needle up/down; presser foot up/down; reverse stitch and cut.

Features

• 480 decorative and utility stitch options
  • 15 one step buttonholes
  • 5 alphanumeric fonts
  • 270 built in embroidery designs
• Extra large embroidery area
• Stitch creator
• Precise positioning
• Shape creator
• Storage space built in to the embroidery unit
• 4 way mirror imaging
• Change size of embroidery designs without changing stitch count
• Design grouping
• Rotate embroidery designs by increments of 1o
• Jump to stitching
• Free arm

Working on the Pfaff Creative 4.5

When I first approached the Pfaff Creative 4.5 for this review, the embroidery unit was attached. Removing it was very easy, but there is a tiny trick to taking off the embroidery presser foot.

Once it was out of the way, attaching the snap on multi-purpose presser foot was literally a snap. With the embroidery unit removed, the free arm is exposed. The accessories case doubles as the workspace that slides into place easily and snaps into place with no pressure at all.

Threading the Pfaff Creative 4.5 and winding the bobbin are made easy by a series of easy to follow thread guides. Selecting the right stitch has the potential for creating confusion because there are so many and they are all so tempting.

The stitch menu is accessed by a simple touch of the stylus or your fingertip, which opens a series of four menu options. The first option give you access to utility, overcast, darning and buttonhole stitches. The second option makes it possible for the user to create hand look, antique quilting, stippling and crazy patch stitches.

Stitch menu option number three opens windows for creating cross stitch, hem, antique and smocking stitches; and the fourth option creates scallop edge stitches, satin stitches, leaves and flowers, art, ornamental stitches, bows and hearts, fun stitches which include whimsical decorative stitches for children’s clothes and accessories, and borders, which includes a collection of decorative ribbon stitches.

The fifth group is where you find the five alphanumeric fonts which can be magnified up to 500%. Navigating through the entire touchscreen menu, including the help menu was easy to achieve, but it was not until after referring to the owner’s manual that I was able to move from the ‘help’ menu back to the stitch menu options.

The bright LED lighting makes working on the Pfaff Creative 4.5 very easy on the eyes, eliminating shadows and softening glare.

For this review, I sampled several utility and decorative stitches, all of which were perfectly formed, evenly spaced and sturdy. In fact, the quality of the stitches made on the Pfaff Creative 4.5 is superior to the stitches made on other machines in the same category.

Perfectly formed, evenly spaced and sturdy stitches

Adjusting the stitch length and width is a simple process, and easy to master without any coaching or special training.

Fabrics

• Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool
• Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet
• Knits
• Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester
• Leather/suede
• Fur
• Reptile skin
• Canvas/Twill
• Plastic/Rubber
• Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers

Accessories

• 11 Snap on presser feet
  • Standard
  • Fancy stitch (2) – one with IDT and one without
  • Blind hem
  • Zipper
  • Sensormatic buttonhole
  • Manual buttonhole
  • Embroidery
  • Dynamic spring foot
  • ¼’ Quilting foot
  • Maxi stitch foot to accommodate 9mm stitch width
• Stylus
• Thread net (2)
• Edge guide
• Felt pad (2)
• USB Embroidery stick
• Screwdriver
• Seam ripper
• Brush
• 3 spool caps (small, medium and large)
• Multi-purpose tool
• Bobbins (10)
• Knee-lift
• PC software ready for free download
• USB cord
• Needles
• Microfiber cloth
• Pfaff Creative™ 4.5 Embroidery collection

Accessories

Maintenance

Tying Off The Loose Ends

The Pfaff Creative 4.5 is an excellent sewing and embroidery machine. It has an extremely solid feel, produces wonderful stitch quality and has no vibration.

In truth, I think this machine is a step up from several of the Pfaff machines I have reviewed over the last couple of years… not that they were particularly bad or faulty machines.

This one, however, has a more solid feel. Those of you who have been sewing for a long time and can gage a machine’s durability by the way it feels when you sew on it know exactly what I mean.

In addition to the solid feel and superior stitch quality produced by the Pfaff Creative 4.5, this machine brings all of the essential machine sewing and embroidery requirements to the home sewing room.

It also comes with loads of extras that enhance the machine embroidery experience. The computer connectivity and 270 on board embroidery designs assure anyone who purchases this machine of almost unlimited embroidery design options.

The fact that the Pfaff Creative 4.5 can be programmed to produce any embroidery design in a monochromatic or color mode gives you even more flexibility when it comes to creating embroidery designs.

The precise placement feature and grid coupled with on board tutorials and the help menu guide users through all of the steps necessary to create a perfect embroidery design each and every time.

The Pfaff Creative 4.5 is an ideal choice for the home sewer who has reached the intermediate level… meaning they know their way around a sewing machine, are adept at clothing construction and understand the basic differences between the various fabrics and threads and are ready to explore their interest in machine embroidery.

It is also highly recommended for the person who has been working with an older sewing and embroidery machine and is in the market to add a more modernized machine to their sewing room inventory.

A seasoned home sewer who has been sewing for many years but never before attempted machine embroidery might just fall in love with machine embroidery and this machine in particular.

I do not recommend the Pfaff Creative 4.5 for use by beginners of any age because there are far too many things to learn in order to get the most out of this machine.

Someone who has no history whatsoever with a sewing machine could easily become overwhelmed. With a machine as advanced as this one, I believe the best customer is one who knows enough about sewing and machine embroidery in particular to be able to appreciate the Creative 4.5 for all that it has to offer.

I simply cannot see someone with little or no sewing skills being able to work with the many different embroidery and monogramming capabilities, or even the decorative stitches for that matter.

If, however, you happen to be one of those people who not only knows a good deal about machine embroidery, but is ready to step up your game, I strongly suggest that you set aside some time to visit your local Pfaff dealer and ask for a demonstration of the Pfaff Creative 4.5.

This is not the most expensive sewing and embroidery machine on the market, nor is it the least expensive; but it has one very important thing going for it that others in its class do not. The Pfaff Creative 4.5 won the 2014 Best Buy Award from Consumers’ Digest.

That is a clear indication that this machine is superior in many, many ways to all of the other sewing and embroidery machines in its price and weight category.

After reviewing it for myself, I can certainly see how the folks at Consumers’ Digest made the decision to bestow this particular award on the Pfaff Creative 4.5.

When you consider all that this machine is capable of doing, the MSRP is quite reasonable. Authorized Pfaff dealers offer special terms, discounts and financing from time to time, making the Creative 4.5 even more accessible. Check it out for yourself on the web at Pfaff and then go visit your local authorized Pfaff dealer.

During a visit to the Gold Coast Sewing and Vacuum Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, I had an opportunity to review a couple of heavy duty Singer sewing machines… the basic 4411 and the newly released 4452.

According to Brad Parker, proprietor of Gold Coast, Singer offers several different models in its Heavy Duty line. The 4411 is the basic heavy duty mechanical sewing machine, offering 11 stitch options.

Singer Heavy Duty 4411 and 4452

The 4452, however, although it is a mechanical sewing machine as well, offers a few additional features, some only found on electronic or computerized models – including an automatic needle threader and a one step buttonhole.

At A Glance

All of the Singer Heavy Duty sewing machines look pretty much alike. They are all grey with red and white markings.

Grey with red and white markings

These sewing machines are truly heavy duty, with metal construction, a metal bed and dials to control stitch selection, stitch length and width, needle position and tension.

The needle plate has seam guides etched on both sides of the needle and there is a drop in bobbin with a see through cover and a reverse stitch lever above the needle.

A drop in bobbin with a see through cover

The sewing machines in the Singer Heavy Duty line are all outfitted with a series of dials that control all of its functions. On top, there are three large dials.

From left to right, these dials control the tension, needle position and stitch width. On the front column are the stitch selection and stitch length control dial.

On the right side, beneath the balance wheel, there is a small dial to adjust the width of the buttonhole stitches.

Features

• 11 decorative and utility stitch options (4411)
  • 6 utility stitches
  • 4 decorative stitches
  • 1 four step automatic buttonhole
• 32 decorative and utility stitch options (4452)
  • 6 utility stitches
  • 7 stretch stitches
  • 18 decorative stitches
  • 1 automatic buttonhole
• Reverse stitch
• Drop in bobbin
• Free arm
• On board accessory storage
• Adjustable presser foot pressure
• Adjustable stitch length and width
• Extra high presser foot lifter
• Sews up to 1100 stitches per minute
• 3 needle positions
• Automatic needle threader (4452)

Working on the Singer Heavy Duty 4411 and 4452

Following the on board threading guides make threading the Singer heavy Duty sewing machines as simple and uncomplicated as can be.

Winding the drop in bobbin and putting it in place is equally as easy… so easy in fact, that a child in elementary school could easily handle the tasks.

Because of the speed that this machine is capable of, however, I do not recommend its use by youngsters or people of any age who are not accustomed to and comfortable with working on sewing machines.

The convenient dials make selecting stitches easy

The convenient dials make selecting stitches, changing the needle position and adjusting the stitch length and width as fast and easy as possible. Simply turn the dials to the desired settings and the job is done.

The large metal bed makes the Singer Heavy Duty sewing machines sturdy and durable, capable of handling heavy fabric, thick leather and anything you might want to sew.

The adjustable presser foot pressure is ideal because you can also sew delicate fabrics such as silk with equal quality. As with any metal sewing machine, the heavy duty Singers are not lightweight. They are not very large, but definitely not designed to be what anyone might mistakenly call ‘portable’.

The quality of the stitches produced on these machines is consistently good… reminiscent of the Singer sewing machines our mothers and grandmothers had.

Stitches produced are consistently good

The stitches are so well defined, I was tempted to question whether or not they were actually made on these machines. There is no vibration and a minimum amount of noise.

Fabrics

• Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool
• Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet
• Knits
• Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester
• Leather/suede
• Fur
• Reptile skin
• Canvas/Twill
• Plastic/Rubber
• Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers

Accessories

• 4 Snap on presser feet:
  • All-purpose foot
  • Zipper foot
  • Buttonhole foot
  • Button sewing foot
• Seam ripper/lint brush
• Quilting guide
• Needles
• Bobbins
• Screwdriver
• Auxiliary spool pin
• Spool pin felt
• Dust cover
• Owner’s manual
• Bonus heavy duty accessories (4452)
  • Even feed/walking foot
  • Non-stick foot
  • Clearance plate
  • Heavy duty needles – size 16

Owner’s manual

Maintenance

Tying Off The Loose Ends

When you stop and take a good look at the Singer Heavy Duty sewing machines, you can quickly see that they are actually very good at what they are built to do.

They can handle heavy fabrics as well as delicates. The stitch quality is excellent. They are faster than nearly every sewing machine built for home use and they are sturdily built. The metal construction and solid frame guarantee vibration free sewing.

The noise level is acceptable in that you cannot expect an all metal machine to be whisper quiet, but with proper care and lubrication, you will be able to work on this machine without someone having to shout when they try to speak to you.

A machine that can sew this fast is definitely not for the faint at heart. Because Singer Heavy Duty sewing machines are capable of sewing at such high speeds [up to 1100 stitches per minute], I do not recommend their use by children or beginners of any age.

These machines could very well be classified as ‘industrial’ meaning that they are best suited for commercial use. The weight, speed and stitch quality are certainly good enough for a tailor or dressmaker’s shop. I could easily see one of these machines being used to make and/or repair boat sails.

Brad Parker, the owner/operator of Gold Coast Sewing and Vacuum told me that he has one customer who uses hers for making shoes… which brings me to the question most people have…. longevity.

At one time, Singer sewing machines could be counted on to last for decades. I have a sewing buddy who inherited her Singer from her grandmother.

Although she has other machines, that old Singer is her preferred machine because of the stitch quality and durability. In the mid 1980s, I purchased a Singer from JoAnn Fabrics.

It worked great for a couple of years then it spent more time with the repairman than it did with me. Eventually, I sold it at a yard sale for $5 and was glad to be rid of it.

Only time will tell if the new Singer Heavy Duty sewing machines will turn into heirlooms or end up on the junk pile after a few years of service.

After reviewing these two, however, I have a feeling that they will be around for a very long time. Computerized and electronic sewing machines are ideal choices for people who want to have all the conveniences that they offer.

In order to maintain their efficiency and to guarantee that they continue to operate at their peak performance levels, it is necessary to have them serviced at least once a year.

This is not a bad thing. After all, as one sewing machine dealer pointed out to me. “You have to take your car to be tuned up and have the oil changed”. So why not do the same for your sewing machine?

All metal mechanical sewing machine

The major advantage of owning an all metal mechanical sewing machine is that you can sew just about anything and everything on it. You are not required to take it to a service professional nearly as often.

In addition to the economic advantages of not having to take it in for servicing as often, you have the added savings of a more affordable acquisition cost. Singer Heavy Duty sewing machines range in cost from about $200 to $450.

Although they are not in my opinion suitable for use by beginners or children, these machines are ideal for the busy home sewing room as well as the sewing professional who is in the market for a sturdy, affordable machine to get your home based business up and running.

When considering the benefits and advantages of a mechanical sewing machine for making clothes and accessories from scarves and hats to bags and shoes as well as home décor items from toss pillows to curtains and drapes to slipcovers for upholstered furniture at home, there is simply no contest.

With the sewing machines in the Singer Heavy Duty line, you cannot expect to have access to hundreds and hundreds of different stitch options like you would with a computerized sewing machine.

Nor should you expect to be able to do perform all of the embroidery and quilting functions that a computerized sewing machine can offer. What you can expect is smooth, high speed sewing and superior stitch quality at an affordable price.

While visiting the Gold Coast Sewing and Vacuum Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, I had an opportunity to review the Juki MO 644D serger. A little while ago, I reviewed its companion machine, the Juki MO 654DE.

Juki MO 644D

At A Glance

When you first look at them, there is little discernable difference between the Juki MO 644D and the MO 654DE. However, upon closer examination, you discover that the placement of two very important controls are completely different.

The differential feed dial on the MO 644D is located on the left hand side and inside the door is the stitch length control. On the MO 654DE, both these controls are located outside the machine on the right hand side.

The differential feed dial

The presser foot pressure adjustment dial is situated on top of the Juki MO 644D above the needle housing.

There is also a seam guide etched on the looper door and the four color coded tension dials make threading the MO 644D as easy as possible and each dial as a diagram showing exactly what a perfectly executed stitch should look like.

Four color coded tension dials

With this feature, people who are new to serging are able to instantly see whether the tension settings are correct or if they should be adjusted.

Inside the looper door is a decal that shows each step of the threading process in clear detail. There is, however, no space inside the looper door to store essential accessories to make threading easier.

Each step of the threading process in clear detail

With this in mind, it is necessary to keep the accessory storage bag, containing your needle threader, looper threader and tweezers close a hand at all times.

Features

• Sew with three or four threads
• Differential feed
• Adjustable stitch length and width
• Adjustable presser foot pressure
• Snap on presser foot

Working on the Juki MO 644D

Following the color coded threading guide inside the looper door and on front of the machine make threading the Juki MO 644D as easy as it could possibly be.

Once it is threaded, setting the stitch length and differential feed controls might be a little tricky for those who are familiar with using sergers with these controls on the right hand side.

On the Juki MO 644D, both these controls are located on the left side instead. To adjust the stitch length, it is actually necessary to open the door on the left.

Adjusting the presser foot pressure is as easy as turning the knob on top of the Juki MO 644D. For this review, multiple layers of denim were used to demonstrate how easily this serger works with multiple layers of fabric.

Regardless of the thickness, the Juki MO 644D sliced through the fabric as easily as a hot knife through butter as the old saying goes. The stitches are consistently even, well-formed and sturdy.

Consistently even, well-formed and sturdy stitches

It didn’t matter whether I sewed through one layer of fabric or four, the Juki MO 644D was quiet and solid. There was no vibration whatsoever.

The Juki MO 644D went through four layers of heavy denim so easily, I have no doubt it could handle twice the thickness or more just as smoothly.

Fabrics

• Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool
• Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet
• Knits
• Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester
• Leather/suede
• Fur
• Reptile skin
• Canvas/Twill
• Plastic/Rubber
• Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers

Accessories

• 2/3 thread converter
• 4 Thread Nets
• 4 Spool caps
• Tweezers
• Lint brush
• Needle threader
• Extra needles
• 2 Screwdrivers (1 large/1 small)
• Oil dispenser
• Accessory storage bag
• Dust cover
• Looper threader
• Owner’s manual

Accessories

Maintenance

Tying Off The Loose Ends

The Juki MO 644D is an excellent serger for the home sewer who has never used a serger before as well as the person who has been sewing and serging for many years.

The solid construction and superior stitch quality – especially when working with multiple thicknesses of fabric – are excellent features that enhance the sewing experience for any home sewer.

I love the way the Juki MO 644D feels while working on it. It is easy to thread and fun to use. This machine is by far one of the most solidly built sergers for home use I have reviewed.

Easy to thread and fun to use

It doesn’t have a free arm, but any experienced home sewer can work around that without any problem at all, and an inexperienced user will be able to make the adjustment in no time at all.

The one feature that kind of bothers me, however, is the placement of the stitch length adjustment control. I am one of those people who likes to take the fewest steps possible to get a job done in the sewing room.

This means I like having everything as easily accessible as possible. The fact that it is necessary to open the side door of the Juki MO 644D in order to change the length of the stitches is for me a letdown.

In my opinion, this is an inconvenient feature, but one that users can become accustomed to. The problem comes in if you have a serger table like mine with a raised a shelf that rests against the left side of the serger.

All in all, however, I like the Juki MO 644D very much. Let’s face it. Being able to open that door on the left is a definite advantage when it comes to cleaning the loopers.

Besides, when you consider the advantages of having a well-built serger that can handle everything from the finest of silks and delicate fabrics to the thickest, toughest of fabrics, taking a few extra seconds to adjust the stitch length and the lack of a free are very small inconveniences to say the least.

The Juki MO 644D is portable, lightweight and best of all, it has all of the great workmanship and reliability that Juki industrial sewing machines have been known for through the years.

With an MSRP of less than $500, the MO 644D is affordable and its compact size makes it easy to store if space is a concern.

The Juki MO 644D is an excellent choice for anyone over the age of 12 who already knows the basics of sewing machine operation and is ready to step up to using a serger.

I do not recommend that children younger than 12 use this or any serger because of the possibility of little fingers finding their way in the path of the upper knife.

The features and durability of this machine are not only good for the beginner. They are also features that experienced home sewers would appreciate. This is one of those machines that doesn’t cost a fortune, but is capable of providing many, many years of reliable service.

If you are in the market for a new serger and budget is a concern, I strongly urge you to take a long hard look at the Juki MO 644D. This is quite probably the most dependable serger in its price range.

While you may be able to find a serger that costs less, you will not find a low cost serger that will give you better service. See it for yourself. Visit your local Juki dealer and ask for a demonstration.

On a recent visit to the Gold Coast Sewing and Vacuum Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, I came across a Singer Pro Finish 14CG754 serger.

Singer Pro Finish 14CG754

This was the very first opportunity I had to review a serger bearing the Singer brand name, so I jumped at the chance to take a very close look at this one.

At A Glance

The Singer Pro Finish 14CG754 serger has a color coded lay in threading system. This is not a particularly unusual feature, but for some reason, the pastel colors coupled with the silver toned accent on the left side caught my eye.

A highly functional free arm

There is also a bright LED light and an on board accessories storage compartment that when removed gives the user access to a highly functional free arm.

Controls for the differential feed and stitch length adjustment

The Singer Pro Finish 14CG754 is one of the few sergers I have seen with a free arm like this. The accessories storage compartment takes up the entire lower left hand side of the machine.

When it is removed, the whole left side converts to a free arm that gives you enough space to work very comfortably when it’s time to hem a cuff, sleeve, sew a collar on a tee-shirt or perform any other task that is easier to complete in a small space.

On the right side of the Singer Pro Finish 14CT754 you will find controls for the differential feed and stitch length adjustment.

Inside the looper door are two large decals that guide the user through every step of the threading process in great detail as well as a guide that displays the way the stitches should appear if the tension dials are set in the proper positions for the fabric types being used.

Features

• 6 stitch options
  • 4 thread mock stretch stitch
  • 3 thread overlock stitch
  • 3 thread mock stretch safety stitch
  • 2 thread overlock stitch
  • Flatlock stitch
  • Rolled hem stitches (4)
• Extra high presser foot lift
• Adjustable stitch length
• Differential feed
• Color coded lay in threading
• Free arm
• On board accessory storage

Working on the Singer Pro Finish 14CG754

Following the threading guide on the Singer Pro Finish 14CGT754 and operating it are all easy enough for a beginner to master with very little hands on guidance.

The quality of the stitches is good. I am very comfortable with the placement of the differential feed and stitch length adjustment dial. It is even possible to adjust the stitch length without stopping.

Easy to follow threading guide

The free arm is a treat to work with. I have seen many sewing machines that do not give you as much functional free arm space as there is on this serger.

With all those accolades, however, I must say that I was not at all pleased with the amount of noise and vibration that I encountered while sewing on this machine.

With all these great features and stitch quality, I was truly disappointed that the manufacturer seemed to have taken a short cut when it came to the type of plastic used for the housing and putting whatever was needed to reduce the amount of vibration.

Fabrics

• Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool
• Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet
• Knits
• Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester
• Leather/suede
• Fur
• Reptile skin
• Canvas/Twill
• Plastic/Rubber
• Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers

Accessories

• Tweezers
• Spreader (looper threader)
• Owner’s manual
• Instructional DVD
• Screwdriver
• Needles
• Dust cover

Accessories

Maintenance

Tying Off The Loose Ends

Overall, I am inclined to say that the Singer Pro Finish 14CG754 is a good choice, especially for someone who has never used a serger before. It is user friendly, has a very good stitch quality and the free arm, especially one as accessible as this one, is a huge benefit.

The reason for my hesitating to give the Singer Pro Finish 14CT754 a better rating are the problems with the noise level and the amount of vibration. Many sewing machines and sergers that have vibration problems come with suction cups on the bottom.

The Singer Pro Finish 14CG754 doesn’t have suction cups, which makes me wonder whether or not there is a risk of its vibrating so badly that there is a risk of it falling off the table under heavy use.

With this in mind, I must admit that this machine has lots of very good features that work great. My concern, however, is all about how long it will last.

Back in the late 1980s, I purchased a Singer sewing machine that worked great the first two years. After that, however, things started going downhill at a rapid pace.

Less than 10 years after bringing it home, I sold it at a yard sale for $5. I can’t help but wonder if this will be the case with the Singer Pro Finish 14CG754.

The machine I purchased back then didn’t vibrate and wasn’t noisy… at least not as noisy as this serger… and the material used on the outside didn’t remind me of the brittle plastic used to make some of the more inexpensive toys you might see in a dollar store.

In addition to the noise and the vibration, I am also concerned that the hard brittle plastic used on the body of the Singer Pro Finish 14CG754 will break or crack – especially on the accessories case.

Under normal conditions, you will be taking this piece off and replacing it many, many times. The more you handle it, the greater the possibility that it will crack or break. Leaving it off is an option, but then you have the challenge of keeping up with all your small accessories.

The large on board storage compartment is a wonderful idea. I just think it’s a shame that the material it is made from is so fragile.

The only reason I can think of for this is the possibility that the manufacturer was trying to keep the Pro Finish 14CG754 affordable. If this is, indeed the case, I sincerely hope they didn’t cut corners on other things.

The machine I bought eventually developed a problem with the feed dogs believe it or not and the balance wheel… two problems I had never before encountered and have never seen since. The good news is that this very affordable sewing machine did perform very well for two years.

If you are in the market for a serger but are not sure whether or not you will be sewing for many more years, this just might be an ideal choice for you.

It is also a viable option for someone who wants to have a serger that they are comfortable taking away from home to the college dorm or to class. It is lightweight and very portable.

Be careful when moving it around, though. Don’t forget about that hard plastic body. If you do not handle it with care, you run an even higher risk of cracking or breaking the plastic on board accessories case and other vulnerable components of the outer shell.

The Singer Pro Finish 14CG754 is a good option for the student who is learning all about sergers. After mastering the use of a serger, however, they will no doubt be in the market for a more durable machine.

It is also a consideration for senior citizens who want a new serger but are not certain how much longer they will be physically able to sew.

It is affordable and at least for the first year or so, a dependable serger that delivers very good stitch quality. I would not, however, expect this machine to last long enough to hand down to children and grandchildren like the Singers our mothers and grandmothers had.

It is a well-known fact that Consew has a reputation for being one of the most sought after brands for commercial sewing machines.

Consew Model 14TU854 Overlock Machine

It wasn’t until visiting the Gold Coast Sewing and Vacuum Center that I had an opportunity to review a Consew machine designed exclusively for the home sewer. The Consew Model 14TU854 is an overlock machine that was specifically built for use in the home.

At A Glance

Aside from the Consew logo and brand name, the first thing you notice on the Consew Model 14TU854 is the colorful lay in threading discs. The next thing that will catch your eye is the number of controls on the right hand side of the machine.

Three dials and a lever at the top

There are three dials and near the top is a lever. The balance wheel is the largest and is positioned just above the power switch. Just the left of the balance wheel is the differential feed. Above that you will find the stitch length adjustment dial.

The biggest surprise for me, however, was he lever at the very top. That, believe it or not is the presser foot lift.

I have seen presser foot lifts positioned behind the needle, next to the needle and of course there are knee lift presser foot controls and computerized machines with touch pads or push buttons that control the up and down movement of the presser foot.

This is, however, the first time I have ever seen a presser foot lift on the side of a sewing machine or serger.

Inside the looper door is a decal that clearly depicts the threading process. There is, however, no on board storage space for the accessories you need to properly thread the Consew 14TU854, like tweezers, needle threader, lint brush or extra needles.

A major plus is the free arm. All it takes to get access to the free arm is to slide off the small cover around the needle plate. When the free arm is exposed, sewing small items like children’s clothes, cuffs, collars and hemming pants is a breeze.

Features

• Individually adjustable and replaceable loopers
• Color coded lay in threading
• Suction cups on the bottom
• Adjustable stitch length
• High-rise looper mechanism
• Heavy duty steel upper and lower blades
• Easy thread tension control
• Free arm
• Needle guard
• LED lighting
• Safety shut off switch

Heavy duty steel upper and lower blades

Working on the Consew Model 14TU854 Overlock Machine

The lay in threading system and easy to follow instructions for threading the loopers are just the beginning of what could be an excellent sewing experience.

Easy to follow instructions for threading the loopers

The graphic details that guide the user through the process of threading the loopers are essential for anyone who has never used this machine before. Once you master the technique, however, you will be able to thread the Consew Model 14TU854 with easy agility.

Once it’s threaded, the trick for me was to remember where to find the presser foot lift. After so many years of working on sewing machines and sergers, my natural instinct was to reach behind the needle.

Having the presser foot lift on the right hand side of this machine was a real stretch for this left handed sewer.

The quality of the stitches, however is very good. I was not thrilled, however, with the level of noise or the way the Consew Model 14TU854 vibrates pretty badly even when not sewing at full speed.

Good stitch quality

Fabrics

• Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool
• Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet
• Knits
• Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester
• Denim
• Leather/suede
• Fur
• Reptile skin
• Canvas/Twill
• Plastic/Rubber
• Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers

Accessories

• Lint brush
• Tweezers
• Dust cover
• Owner’s manual
• Screwdriver
• Needles
• Catch bin
• Looper threader

Owner’s manual

Maintenance

Tying Off The Loose Ends

Sewing on the affordable Consew Model 14TU854 was mixed experience for me. The stitch quality is excellent. The Consew website and owner’s manual stipulate that this machine is excellent for silk, tricot, dressmaking and even denim.

It is not, however, suitable for truly heavy weight fabrics like canvas, upholstery fabric beyond light to medium weights, very heavy wool for coats and the like.

What disturbed me most about working on the Consew Model 14TU854 are the noise and vibration. After sewing just a few inches, it was little wonder why it comes with suction cups.

In addition to the noise and vibration issue, my other concern is the material used to construct the outer shell. It is that hard plastic that gives you the impression that it will crack if you are not extremely careful.

No one expects to bang a serger around or drop it, but accidents happen and I cannot help but wonder how it will stand up to several years of normal use.

To be honest, I was more than a little bit surprised at this because I had become accustomed to Consew’s well-constructed commercial sewing machines.

There are other brands that started out making sewing machines and sergers for industrial use that transferred the same quality and workmanship to their machines or home use.

I am sorry to say that this is not the case with the Consew Model 14TU854 overlock machine. I am not sure if they decline in the quality of the materials is an attempt to keep prices low of if there is some other reason for using the fragile plastic that feels like it will crack very easily.

User friendly serger with great stitch quality

The affordability of the Consew Model 14TU854 overlock machine and the addition of the free arm and the fact that the lay in threading system is easier to master than many other sergers I have reviewed are all definite advantages.

The quality of the stitches is the biggest advantage. After all, isn’t that the most important thing we look at? What good is a sewing machine or serger that is not capable of producing great stitches?

If a user friendly serger with great stitch quality is what you are looking for, then visit the Consew dealer in your and ask for a demonstration of the Consew Model 14TU854 overlock machine.

If, however, you are in the market for more than great stitches and affordability, you may want to consider looking further. Nearly all sewing machines and sergers have a plastic housing.

However, there are nearly as many different grades of plastic as there are sewing machines on the market. If the Consew Model 14TU854 overlock machine were made from more durable plastic I would be more enthusiastic about it.

Given the fact that the body of this machine is so tenuous, I cannot in good conscience give it a ringing endorsement.

I rated the performance as a 3 for this reason. This has been a bit of an eye opener for me because if you look at performance alone… meaning the way it operates and how the stitches look… it would get a higher rating.

When considering the long term performance, however, I am not so certain that this will be the case. I have seen other machines with sturdier construction that literally failed in every aspect after just a couple of years of use.

There is no way of telling if this will happen with the Consew Model 14TU854, but the possibility cannot be ignored.

If you are willing to take a chance and gamble on the fact that the Consew Model 14TU854 could very well turn out to be a wonderful machine for many, many years to come you might just be taking home a winner.

On a visit to see what was new at Ace Sewing and Vacuum in Pompano Beach, Florida, I came across the brand new Husqvarna/Viking Designer Ruby Royale.

Husqvarna/Viking Designer Ruby Royale

I had read about it, and was truly happy to be able to finally review this much talked about sewing and embroidery machine.

At A Glance

The Husqvarna/Viking Designer Rose Royale is larger than nearly all the sewing and embroidery machines produced before it was released.

A touchpad above the needle with controls

Two USB ports on the right side

It has a very large work area – nearly 10 inches from the needle to the column and a large 5 x 7 full color touch screen. There are also two USB ports on the right side as well as a stylus holder.

A touchpad above the needle is where you will find controls for starting and stopping the machine; raising and lowering the presser foot; reverse stitch; tying off and cutting the thread; stopping the needle in the up or down position; as well as the ability to stop sewing a design stitch at its end and a fix function.

Topping it all off, the most noticeable thing about the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Ruby Royale is the large brightly lit full color touch screen and the bright on board LED lighting.

Features

• More than 1000 utility, decorative and embroidery stitch options
  • 13 one step buttonholes
  • 6 Alphanumeric sewing fonts
  • 4 Alphanumeric embroidery fonts
  • 182 design stitches
  • 357 Standard embroidery designs, including 175 on a separate CD
• Updatability
• 5 x 7 interactive full color touch screen
• Design positioning
• Basic design applique
• On screen embroidery design editing
• Mirror imaging
• Image resizing – rotating
• Optional thread sensors with sound
• Dimensional stitching with specialty threads
• Sewing advisor
• Automatic jump stitch
• Adjustable stitch length and width
• Needle up/down
• Start/stop button
• On board thread snip
• USB ports
• Computer connectivity
• Side motion sewing

Working on the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Ruby Royale

Winding the bobbin on the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Ruby Royale and threading I are as simple as these tasks are on most of the older models in the Husqvarna/Viking sewing machine line.

Winding the bobbin is simple

That, however, along with the fabric selection icons at the bottom of the touch screen is pretty much where the similarity ends. When in the sewing mode and you want to select a stitch, there is no on board stitch selection guide to work from.

However, there are icons on the right side of the screen which allow you to select utility, decorative or alphanumeric font stitches.

Just to keep the playing field even, I elected follow the same procedures I use with all reviews of sewing and embroidery machines and sampled several utility and decorative stitch options.

While nearly all of the stitches I sampled came out fine, there was a noticeable lack of density with some of the decorative stitch options.

That problem, however, was remedied when I adjusted the default stitch width settings until I achieved more suitable stitch density.

Noticeable lack of density with some of the decorative stitch options

In addition, I was disappointed with the one character stitch I sampled… the butterfly. The stitches piled on top of one another and the end result was a huge mess (the results are circled on the photo).

One reason for this could have been that I used two layers of a medium weave fabric rather than a layer of stabilizer. I tend to doubt that, however, since the problem did not occur with other stitches – even the dense ones.

Fabrics

• Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool
• Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet
• Knits
• Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester
• Leather/suede
• Fur
• Reptile skin
• Canvas/Twill
• Plastic/Rubber
• Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers

Accessories

Standard accessories:

• 14 Presser feet
  • Utility foot
  • Decorative stitch
  • Buttonhole
  • Blindhem
  • Zipper
  • Non-stick glide
  • Edging
  • Quilter’s ¼”
  • Piecing
  • Embroidery/darning
  • Side motion
  • Transparent
  • Sensor one-step buttonhole
  • Sensor
• Self-adhesive glide plates
• Stylus
• Thread net
• Edge/quilting guide
• 2 Felt pads
• 1 GB USB stick
• Screwdriver
• 2 Embroidery hoops
  • Royal hoop (360mm x 200mm)
  • Splendid square hoop (120mm x 120mm)
• 16 Hoop clips
• 4 spool caps (2 large/1 medium/1 small)
• Button reed/multipurpose tool
• 11 Bobbins
• Downloadable classic embroidery collection
• Carrying case
• Pictogram pen
• Carrying case
• Extra needles
• Embroidery thread
• Fabric samples
• Scissors
• Embroidery thread
• Stabilizer
• Microfiber cloth
• Sampler book
• Owner’s manual

Optional accessories:

When you purchase the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Ruby Royale, you have access to hundreds of optional accessories. The list here is just a sampling of the many optional sewing and embroidery accessories from which you can choose.

• Presser feet
  • Gathering foot
  • Beading foot
  • 3, 5, 7 and 9 groove pin tuck
  • 7 hole cord foot with threader
  • Adjustable buttonhole foot
  • ½ and ¼” bias binder
  • Braiding foot
  • Button foot with placement tool
  • Adjustable blind hem foot
  • Candlewicking
  • Changeable presser feet
  • ¼” guide
  • Decorative
  • Quilter’s guide
  • Chenille stitching
  • Clear invisible zipper
  • Open toe
  • Free motion open toe
  • Piping
  • Seam guide
  • Stitch in the ditch
  • Double welt cording
  • Fancy trim
• Clearance plate
• Logo pattern luggage set
• Hoops
  • Design hoop (180mm x 120mm)
  • Do all quilter’s hoop (150mm x 150mm)
  • Embroidery spring hoop
• 8 Spool thread rack
• Embroidery cutwork kit
• 2 Hoop templates (360mm x 200mm and 260mm x 200mm)
• Cutwork needles

Maintenance

Tying Off The Loose Ends

The Husqvarna/Viking Designer Ruby Royale is overall a very good sewing and embroidery machine. The challenges with the decorative stitch that did not come out right is one that I believe can be worked around.

During this review, the speed setting was at the highest level. Perhaps sewing at a slower speed and/or the addition of stabilizer could have made the difference.

It should be noted, however, that none of the other stitches sampled had this issue. It is necessary to adjust the default settings in order to achieve professional looking density in some of the design stitches. Once that was done, the stitches came out great.

A large 5 x 7 full color touch screen

I don’t recommend this machine for everyone, especially the beginner. It should definitely not be used by a child.

There are too many things to remember while learning basic sewing machine operation, and a machine with as many computerized components as this one should not be handled by a child – even while being supervised.

No doubt some people will disagree with me on this. I have talked with a few people who think someone who has never touched a sewing machine before would be able to master a machine like the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Ruby Royale.

When someone who has never sewn before tells me this, my opinion may change. There are even a few people who think it might be all right to teach a child how to use this machine.

These people, however, are not beginners, nor are they parents, school teachers or anyone else who deals with children on a daily basis.

In the meantime, I believe the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Ruby Royale is a good step up for anyone who has mastered the basics of sewing machine operation and maintenance and is ready to step up their game.

The issue with the stitch density should not be a problem for someone who knows how and when to adjust stitch density. This machine is designed so that adjusting stitch length and width is very easy.

I love the huge work space. Sewing coats and other very large items is much, much easier when you have a large space between the needle and the column.

Very few home sewing machines have a work space this accommodating. The fact that you can sew with the embroidery unit attached gives you an even larger work area.

Of course, with all this added workspace, the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Ruby Royale has a larger footprint. It requires about twice as much table space as your traditional sewing machine needs.

An added advantage is the bright on board LED lighting. There are no shadows and the lights are adjustable so as the light in your sewing room changes and you need more illumination, it’s right there at your fingertips.

The same is true for the light on the touch screen. You can reduce eye strain by adjusting the brightness levels to accommodate your personal comfort level.

The Husqvarna/Viking Designer Ruby Royale is available for demonstration at most authorized Husqvarna/Viking sewing machine dealers.

If you have been putting off getting a new sewing and embroidery machine because you have been reading all of the press releases and e-mail notices about the new machines that are being released this fall, you owe it to yourself to take a close look at this one.

There are lots of brand news models to choose from. I strongly suggest that you set aside time to visit your local Husqvarna/Viking dealer and ask for a demonstration of the Designer Ruby Royale before making your final decision.

I don’t review too many industrial sewing machines, but on a recent visit to Gold Coast Sewing and Vacuum Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, I couldn’t resist taking a close look at the Tacsew BLST-2 portable blindstitcher from Tacony.

Tacsew BLST–2 Portable Blindstitcher

Brad Parker, Gold Coast owner and manager, explained that this little dynamo is one of his biggest sellers. He pointed out that it is just as fast and performs just as well as any full sized blindhemmer, but is half as large, weighs half as much, has half the footprint and costs one third as much.

According to Brad, the Tacsew BLST-2 portable blindstitcher is perfect for a tailor shop, dry cleaners or any place where alterations, especially hemming, is a major function.

At A Glance

At a glance

When I first saw the Tacsew BLST-2 portable blindstitcher, it was already loaded with a piece of black fabric and a few rows of sample stitches already in place.

There is a stitch length adjustment dial, and a lever on the right hand side that allows you to determine whether or not stitches will be skipped.

While skipping stitches is not something one would want to experience while sewing under normal conditions, skipping stitches on a hemmer is a highly desirable feature.

Depending upon the type of fabric and the specific task you are performing, the ability to skip stitches at regular intervals can be downright essential. The knee lift control drops the plunger – the space beneath the needle.

For those who are unfamiliar with blindstitch machines, when the plunger is released, the workspace resembles a free arm.

Remember, the blindstitch machine is designed for hemming… especially men’s pants cuffs with this tiny feature, performing the task this machine was built for literally becomes as easy as 1-2-3.

With the plunger dropped, sliding the end of a pair of pants into place is in some ways easier then working with a traditional free arm. When the knee lift is released, the fabric is held securely in place, making it impossible to get an uneven hem.

There is also a magnifying glass that is helpful when threading the blindstitcher and working on intricate details and a spool stand big enough to hold the largest of cone threads with a telescoping wand that helps simplify the threading process.

A magnifying glass that is helpful when threading the blindstitcher

Features

Adjustable thread tension

• Knee activated plunger drop
• Adjustable thread tension
• Swing-away plate
• Adjustable stitch length
• Skip stitch feature
• Manual tension adjustment

Working on the Tacsew BLST–2 Portable Blindstitcher

There are no real tricks to threading the Tacsew BLST-2 portable blindstitcher. The process is actually very simple, but you must follow the path very closely.

No real tricks to threading

As with all industrial sewing machines, you will not have any on board signals as to how to thread this machine but if you are truly well trained on the basic operation of a sewing machine, you will be able to look at the Tacsew BLST-2 portable blindstitcher and figure out how to thread it on your own.

With only one type of stitch to choose from, the only decision is to determine the length and whether or not you want or need to set it to skip a stitch.

When the foot pedal was engaged, I found that the Tacsew BLST-2 portable blindstitcher is not only lightning fast, it is also surprisingly quiet.

For some reason, I expected it to be rather noisy. To my surprise, this machine is rather quiet when compared with other all metal industrial sewing machines.

This is not to say that it is whisper quiet, but far less noisy than one might expect. The stitches formed by the Tacsew BLST-2 portable blindstitcher, whether short or long, are perfect in every way… creating an ideal hem each and every time.

Perfect stitch quality

Fabrics

• Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool
• Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet
• Knits
• Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester
• Leather/suede
• Fur
• Reptile skin
• Canvas/Twill
• Plastic/Rubber
• Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers

Accessories

• Knee lift
• Curved needles
• Tool kit
• Telescoping thread stand
• Owner’s manual

Maintenance

Tying Off The Loose Ends

It is easy to see why the Tacsew BLST-2 portable blindstitcher is a favorite among professional tailors and dressmakers. It is compact, meaning it does not take up a lot of space in the workroom.

It is also a low noise machine, which is a major advantage in a busy workroom that can have up to a hundred machines going at once. The stitch quality is excellent and it is easy to operate.

An experienced home sewer with no prior experience working on a blindstitch machine will be able to master its operation with just a minimum amount of training.

This is not a machine for the novice or for anyone who is intimidated by a high speed sewing machine. It is, however, great for the professional sewing room as well as certain home sewing rooms where handwork is a focus.

When it comes to specialty machines designed for commercial or industrial use only, the Tacsew BLST-2 portable blindstitcher is one of the few machines that a home sewer could truly appreciate.

Ideal choice

Not only is it affordable, lightweight and compact, it is an ideal choice for someone who may be challenged when it comes to doing a lot of hemming by hand.

If you happen to be dealing with carpal tunnel syndrome, the Tacsew BLST-2 portable blindstitcher could very well be a solution when it comes to hemming those better dresses and tailored suits, skirts and slacks by hand.

In all honesty, I had never considered adding a hemming machine to my personal sewing room inventory before reviewing this little beauty. Right now, I have a tailored skirt hanging in my closet waiting to be hemmed.

With the exception of the hem, it is ready to be worn, and has been hanging there, just like it is right now for about six weeks or so.

With a machine like the Tacsew BLST-2 portable blindstitcher in my house, this skirt would have been finished a long, long time ago.

One of my sewing machines has a blind hem feature, but I have never liked the way the stitches look and have only used that feature a dozen or so times over the 40 plus years I’ve owned this particular machine.

With a machine like the Tacsew BLST-2 portable blindstitcher at my disposal, I could easily see myself using it to hem all of my better dresses, skirts and slacks as well as jackets.

If, like me, you delay hand stitching as long as possible either because you simply don’t have the time or because sewing by hand is not your idea of a good time, it might be time for you to consider a single purpose blindsticher for your own sewing room.

The Tacsew BLST-2 portable blindstitcher weighs less than 25 pounds. While this isn’t what I might call a featherweight, it is light enough to allow you to move it around … leaving it out of sight or at least out of the way until you are ready to put it to work.

It is so fast, you will be able to hem a dress, skirt or pair of dress slacks in mere seconds. In addition, the very affordable MSRP makes the Tacsew BLST-2 portable blindstitcher accessible for nearly every budget. Don’t take my word for it.

If you cannot get make your way to West Palm Beach, Florida and the Gold Coast Sewing and Vacuum Center, visit a dealer in your area that offers specialty industrial sewing machines for sale and ask for a demonstration of the Tacsew BLST-2 portable blindstitcher. You must might be as impressed as I was with this single function machine.

If you are more interested in machine quilting or embroidery, or if your fashion sewing does not include a lot of what I like to call ‘dressy’ or tailored clothes, investing in the Tacsew BLST-2 portable blindstitcher might be a waste of time and money. However, if like me, you make a lot of dress slacks, ‘dressy’ dresses and tailored skirts, it just might be worth your while to take a long hard look at adding a Tacsew BLST-2 portable blindstitcher to the inventory of your personal sewing machines.

While visiting friends at Ace Sewing and Vacuum in Pompano Beach, Florida, I came across the Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000. I understand this is the very first true embroidery machine in the Laura Ashley line.

Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000

At A Glance

Aside from the pink accent color which always grabs my attention, the first thing I noticed about the Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000 is the large work space.

Even with the embroidery unit removed, this machine has an extremely large bed. I could easily see how large sewing and quilting jobs can be completed on this machine with little or no difficultly fitting your work in the space between the needle and column.

Touch pad above the needle that controls all the key functions

One of my favorite features on this machine is the placement of the drop feed. Rather than hiding it someplace behind the accessory case or on back of the machine, the drop feed control is right up front where you can get to it easily and quickly.

There is also a large full color LCD touch screen and stylus as well as a touch pad above the needle that controls all the key functions… start/stop; reverse stitch; needle up/down; thread cutting; presser foot up/down; speed control slider and automatic needle threading.

I had to ask about the clear plastic window above the needle, and learned that it was a troubleshooting feature. Apparently, earlier models had a problem with the automatic needle threading mechanism and the window was added to aid in the process.

The see through bobbin cover is a major plus

The see through bobbin cover is a major plus along with the needle plate which has seam guides in both inches and metric measurements.

Features

Basic Features :

• 531 decorative, utility, quilting and embroidery stitch options including:
  • 416 built-in embroidery designs including 50 Laura Ashley European floral designs
  • 44 embroidery designs on CD
  • 17 embroidery lettering fonts
  • 3 sewing lettering fonts
• Sew with embroidery unit attached
• Full color LCD touch screen 3.1″ x 8.3″
• Adjustable screen brightness settings
• Touch panel stitch selection
• Screen saver
• On-screen assistance
• On-screen editing
• Rotate, mirror image, enlarge/reduce, letter spacing, thread density
• 5 Bright on board LED lights
• Automatic Needle Threader
• Automatic Tension adjustment
• Adjustable Bobbin Winding Speed
• Upper and lower Thread Sensors
• Automatic Thread Cutter
• Twin needle selection key
• Quick Set™ Bobbin
• Built-in Memory
• Updatable software
• Mouse Capability by USB
• Media Type Several Media via USB, Embroidery Card (via Card Reader)
• 15 One step buttonholes – 15 One-step
• 1 Four-step buttonhole
• My Custom Stitch™ Feature
• Drop feed
• Side feeding
• Start/stop button
• Speed control slider
• Needle position key (up/down)
• Automatic height adjuster™ aha® feature
• Presser foot pressure adjustment
• Free arm
• Needle up/down

Sewing Features :

• Work Space 4.5″ x 8.2″
• Sew up to 1,000 stitches per minute
• Knee Lift
• Presser Foot Leveling
• Automatic Presser Foot Lifter
• Pivot Function
• Drop Feed

Embroidery Features :

• Maximum embroidery area – 7″ x 12″
• Embroidery speed – 350 to 1000 stitches per minute
• 17 built-in alphanumeric fonts, including Cyrillic
• Built-in frame designs – 10 shapes/12 stitch patterns
• Thread wiper
• Resume function
• Trial position/layout function
• Built-in border function & designs
• Applique creator function
• Curving text on screen editing
• Space reduction on embroidery alphanumeric fonts
• Pattern rotating – 1, 10, or 90 degrees
• Drag and Drop Editing
• My Custom Design™ Feature (On CD)
• Print and Stitch™ Technology
• Compatible with all Brother Embroidery Software
• Software upgrades

Working on the Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000

I really like the way you get warnings to move your hands ou of the way when you first turn the machine on. There is a warning telling you the embroidery unit is attached and another one to alert you when the unit is about to move.

On board threading guide make the process so easy

A large full color LCD touch screen and stylus

When you shift from embroidery to sewing mode, you get another warning telling you to change the presser foot. Threading the Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000 and winding the bobbin are quite simple.

The on board threading guide make the process so easy, I daresay a beginner could easily master this task with very little hands on assistance.

Even though there is no on board stitch selection guide, the stitch selection process was fun in a way… that is if you have the time to scroll through all the stitch options in order to choose the one you want.
The first thing you must do is select your stitch category from one of the blue buttons at the lower edge of the touch screen. They is one for utility stitches, two for decorative stitches including buttonholes and one for alphanumeric fonts.

After selecting the stitch category, images of the stitches appear on the screen. The stylus is then used to select the desired stitch.

The quality of the stitches produced by the Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000 are acceptable, but the straight stitches are not as well defined as I think they should be.

In addition, it is necessary to manipulate the stitch length and width in order to achieve proper density on some of the decorative stitches.

Acceptable stitch quality

The Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000 is quiet and there is no vibration – a definite advantage, especially if you are going to be working on it for long stretches of time.

Fabrics

• Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool
• Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet
• Knits
• Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester
• Leather/suede
• Denim
• Fur
• Reptile skin
• Canvas/Twill
• Plastic/Rubber
• Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers

Accessories

• 14 Snap on presser feet
  • Buttonhole foot
  • Embroidery foot
  • Overcasting foot
  • Monogramming foot
  • Zipper foot
  • Zigzag foot
  • Blind stitch foot
  • Button fitting foot
  • Open Toe Walking foot
  • Sidecutter foot
  • Free-motion quilting foot
  • Free-motion open toe quilting foot
  • Free-motion echo quilting foot
  • Straight stitch foot
  • Braiding foot
  • Cording foot
  • Circular attachment
• Multi-media card (MMC)
• XD picture card
• Secure digital (SD) card
• Memory stick
• On board Accessory Storage – when embroidery unit is removed
• Carrying Case Laura Ashley Rolling Bag
• Brother Embroidery System (BES®) Monogramming Suite Software
• Accessory pouch with seam ripper
• 10 Bobbins
• Twin needle
• Ballpoint needle set
• Scissors
• Chalk pen
• Lint brush
• Eyelet punch
• 3 Screwdrivers (1 large/1 medium/1 small)
• 3 Spool caps (1 large/1 medium/1 small)
• Vertical spool pin
• Spool felt
• Spool net
• 4 Embroidery sheets
• Embroidery needle plate cover
• Stylus
• Bobbin case
• Cord guide bobbin cover
• Embroidery bobbin thread
• Stabilizer material
• Embroidery unit carry case
• Hard case
• Bobbin guide set
• USB cable, power cord
• Owner’s manual
• 4 Embroidery Hoops
  • 7″ x 12″
  • 5″ x 7″
  • 4″ x 4″
  • 1″ x 2.5″

Maintenance

Tying Off The Loose Ends

This is not what I would call a ‘perfect’ sewing and embroidery machine, but it definitely has some great features. The warning signals are excellent safety features that should be included on every sewing machine.

I like working with the touch screen and I absolutely love the extra-large work space. The placement of the drop feed is a definite plus in my opinion. It is easy to get to and very easy to use. Just slide the lever left or right and that’s it.

All in all, I think the Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000 is a good sewing machine. I am concerned with a couple of things, however.

First of all, the material used for the lid seems very fragile to me. It is made of that kind of plastic that feels as though it will crack or break if something bumps it or if it is handled too much.

Next is the clear cover over the needle. Although I was told there was an issue with the automatic needle threader, I did not encounter any problems during this review.

That is not to say that all the bugs have been worked out, but I tend to think that the manufacturer at least made a serious effort to correct the problem.

This is encouraging in that the manufacturer is obviously concerned about making sure users are pleased with their product and want to make sure it works properly.

Using the stitch selection guide is a bit cumbersome, simply because it is easier to just look inside the lid and refer to the stitch guide rather than a separate sheet that could easily get misplaced in a busy sewing room.

I was not in a rush when I did this review, so it was no big deal for me to scroll through the on board stitch menus to find a specific stitch. If, however, I were working at home and didn’t have a lot of time to do this, I can see how this could be a time consuming task that could be avoided if there had been an on board stitch guide.

All of the safety features, coupled with the quiet operation and the number of stitch options outweigh those concerns in a lot of ways. Of course, the real test of any sewing machine comes after it has been in use at home for a while.

Based upon my findings during this review, however, I believe anyone who purchases the Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000 will be pleased with it.

When I attempted to research it online, I discovered that it is no longer listed on the Brother website, which tells me this is a limited edition machine that is no longer being produced.

That does not mean that you cannot find one if you want to check it out for yourself. All it takes is a visit to your local authorized Brother Innov-is dealer.

The staff will no doubt be very happy to show you the Brother Innov-is Laura Ashley Isodore 5000, give you a hands-on demonstration and answer any questions you may have.

On a visit to Ace Sewing and Vacuum in Pompano Beach, Florida, I had an opportunity to review the much anticipated Brother Dream Machine. This machine has so many brand new features and options that I honestly don’t know where to start.

One thing that everyone needs to know right off the bat is the Brother Dream Machine has earned the Best Buy Award from Consumer’s Digest.

Brother Dream Machine

When compared to other machines in its class … and there is only one, the Baby Lock Destiny … the Brother Dream Machine has comparable features and options, but cost slightly less.

At A Glance

Three USB ports and a headphone jack

The first thing you will notice about the Brother Dream Machine is its sheer size! When the embroidery unit is attached, this combination sewing and embroidery machine appears to take up almost as much space as a full size table mounted industrial sewing machine.

If you have a standard size sewing table, the Dream Machine will take up the entire work surface. That and the large full color LCD touch screenare only the beginning.

On the right side of the machine are three USB ports, ports for connecting the standard laser pen and the foot pedal as well as something else that I have never before seen on any sewing machine… a headphone jack.

After doing a bit of research, I learned that this machine actually has on board tutorial videos complete with audio. Believe it or not, you can even plug in a DVD and watch a movie on the large screen.

Has all of the on board features any home sewer would love to have

The Brother Dream Machine also has all of the on board features any home sewer would love to have… start/stop, reverse stitch, stitch reinforcement, needle up/down, thread cutter, presser foot up/down, variable speed control slider and a fully automatic needle threader along with an easy to follow threading and bobbin winding guides.

Features

General Features :

Automatic needle threading system

• 11.25” needle to arm
• 5-inch height from sewing bed to top of machine arm
• LED lighting mimics natural daylight with five different settings
• Nearly 10-inches of lighting around the needle
• Automatic needle threading system
• Ergonomic large start/stop button
• Separate bobbin winder system
• Adjustable bobbin winding speed
• InnovEye® 2 Technology
• On board camera
• Scanner
• Extra high lift presser foot

My Design Center :

• Draw directly onto the LCD touch screen
• Line-art scan and embroidery
• Drawing or .jpg scan and embroidery
• Scan and stipple
• 30 stamp frames
• Combine creations with pre-digitized and build-in designs and fonts
• Auto line completion
• Stitch setting attributes
• Zoom up to 400%
• ScanImation™ Scanning Frame

Embroidery Features :

• 773 on board embroidery designs
  • 166 Disney/Pixar embroidery designs
  • 15 home furnishings designs
  • 5 pet designs
  • 20 Japanese designs
  • 18 quilt designs
  • 18 built-in technique designs
  • 30 Swiss designs from Zundt
  • 8 cool designs
  • 140 frame pattern combinations
  • 22 embroidery fonts with full complement of symbols, including 2 small fonts
  • Built-in Greek alphabet
• 9.5” x 14” Embroidery area
• Built-in extra-large designs for the jumbo 9.5” x 14” embroidery frame
• Embroider up to 1,050 stitches per minute
• Go forward or backward up to 1,000 stitches
• 175 sewing stitch designs available in embroidery mode
• Color Shuffling® 2
• Droplight™ LED Embroidery Positioning Marker
• Ultrasonic sensor sets embroidery position and angle
• Camera scanning in two different speed modes
• AccuTrac™ embroidery system
• InnovEye® 2 Technology and Snowman® Embroidery Positioning Marker
• InnovaChrome™ LED Thread Color System
• Print and Stitch™ Technology for 3D Art
• Embroidery background color adjusting feature
• Monochrome embroidery for single color embellishment
• Jump stitch thread trimming
• Thread wiper
• Resume function
• Thread sensors for upper and lower threads
• Embroidery frame display
• Embroidery basting function
• Embroidery thread palettes
• Built-in alignment function for designs and borders
• Trial position
• Design duplication mode with embroidery editing
• Readable PHC files
• Built-in Appliqué Creator
• Embroidery drag and drop

Sewing Features :

• 149 utility stitches
• 577 decorative stitches, including vintage, heirloom and wide designs
• 5 sewing fonts: 3 alphabet and 1 Cyrillic and 1 Japanese font
• Sew up to 1,050 stitches per minute
• Sew decorative stitches up to 710 stitches per minute
• Sew Straight™ 2 brighter laser and wider side range
• MuVit™ Digital Dual Feed System
• Multi-function foot controller for hands-free control of select sewing functions
• Enhanced My Custom Stitch™ feature
• Automatic Height Adjuster™ (AHA®) … automatic presser foot pressure
• InnovEye® 2 Technology pattern collection and edge stitching
• Virtual Stitch PreviewTM
• Lightning-quick pivoting functionality, with customizable foot height
• Paper punching – sew with no thread
• Square feed dog system
• Adjustable 3 position knee lift
• Needle plate detector for
• Free motion mode automatically adjusts the foot height
• Automatic feed dog switching
• Back to beginning key
• Improved sewing with longer feed dogs

LCD Display Features :

• Large 10.1’’ built-in HD LCD display – 23% larger than screens on previous Brother models
• More than 16 million possible colors with no color shifting on LCD
• MPEG4 replay function
• Embroidery design and sewing stitch selection scroll bar
• Adjustable display color for easy editing
• Built-in screensavers with viewing adjustment options
• Personalized screensaver
• More than 40 built-in instructional videos

Software Features :

• 3 USB ports
• High-speed 2.0 port for design transfer
• Customizable USB mouse pointer functions for an optional mouse
• Optional external USB embroidery card reader
• Easy-to-navigate home screen
• 5 Sound levels
• Larger internal memory capacity
• 13 on board languages
• High power CPU
• Presser foot and needle changing key for safe operations
• Screen lock
• Time and date key
• Eco mode

Working on the Brother Dream Machine

LCD touch screen displayed a pretty opening picture

When I first turned on the Dream Machine, the LCD touch screen displayed a pretty opening picture and played a delightful tune. When the song restarted, I touched the screen with my fingertip, and the machine went into action.

The first thing it did was to switch to the main ‘home’ screen, giving me three options… sewing, embroidery, Disney or My Design Center. The option at the lowest position on the touch screen, My Design Center, is where the user’s personal favorite designs are saved.

I sat for a few minutes just scrolling through each of the design options. It was absolutely fascinating. There is no on board stitch selection guide, and for good reason. There is absolutely no way a display of all these stitches would be able to fit onto such a small space.

After several minutes of scrolling through each of the different sewing, embroidery and Disney stitch options, getting back to the main menu was as easy as touching the ‘home’ icon on the upper right hand corner of the screen.

Bobbin winding and threading processes are as easy as possible

The other icons at the top of the screen from left to right are the camera, stitch menu, help, presser foot/needle exchange and machine lock.

Although the Brother Dream Machine is larger than every other sewing and embroidery machine I have ever worked on, the bobbin winding and threading processes are as easy as possible with the on board guides that are clearly identified inside the lid and on front of the machine.

The see through bobbin cover and thread sensors make it virtually impossible to run out of thread in the middle of a seam, while sewing a sequence of decorative stitches or half way through an embroidery project.

Just to keep the sewing field even, and in the interest of time, I sampled several of the sewing stitch options for this review. Each one, I must admit, came out with excellent results.

Excellent stitching results

Selecting the stitches was as simple as selecting the sewing option which opens menus for sewing utility stitches, quilting stitches, and the alphanumeric fonts.

To select a particular stitch, it is necessary to first select a stitch category and then scroll through to find the desired stitch. Without having a chart to refer to, it may take time to find the perfect stitch option, but once you become familiar with the choices, identifying the right stitch will surely become easier with time.

When the thread cutter is used after sewing a seam or a row of decorative stitches, the presser foot remains in the down position.

Fabrics

• Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool
• Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet
• Knits
• Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester
• Leather/suede
• Denim
• Fur
• Reptile skin
• Canvas/Twill
• Plastic/Rubber
• Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers

Accessories

• 4 Embroidery frames:
  • 9.5” x 14”
  • 8” x 12”
  • 5” x 7”
  • 4” x 4”
• 16 Snap on presser feet
  • Couching foot with MuVit™ Digital Dual Feed System
  • 3 Free-motion quilting feet
  • Piecing foot
  • Straight stitch foot
  • Zigzag foot
  • Monogramming foot
  • Overcasting foot
  • Zipper foot
  • Buttonhole foot
  • Blindstitch foot
  • Embroidery foot
  • Dual feed foot
  • Straight stitch foot
  • Quilting foot
• 2-spool thread stand
• High-quality accessory box for storage within arm of machine
• 3 removable accessory trays
• 3 in 1 multi-function screwdriver
• V-Sonic™ Pen Pal
• Straight stitch needle plate
• Special bobbin case for bobbin work
• Side car foot pedal

Maintenance

Tying Off The Loose Ends

The Brother Dream Machine is aptly named. This machine is truly a dream. For some, it is no doubt, a dream come true. When I got my first sewing machine at the age of eight, I never imagined a sewing machine that had pictures and sound.

This machine has so much more to offer than that little hand cranked sewing machine, I must admit that I was almost mesmerized while putting this machine through its paces and witnessing all that it is capable of doing.

I must also admit, however, that I cannot help but wonder how reliable the Dream Machine will be after several months or years of service in a real home sewing room, rather than under the perfect conditions of a store showroom.

This machine has a total of 23 innovative features that have never before been seen on a sewing machine, it is sometimes difficult to comprehend all of them working perfectly without at least a little bit of tweaking and adjusting to get the ‘bugs’ out.

The stitch quality is perfect. Working on the Dream Machine is really a dream. It is quiet, sturdy and ergonomically sound. Working on this machine actually feels good.

There is simply no other way to put it. I like the way it handles and thoroughly enjoyed everything about it while conducting this review.

Quiet, sturdy and ergonomically sound machine

Just because of the many internal computerized components, I hesitate to recommend sewing a lot of heavy, thick fabrics or extra thick layers, but have no reservations whatsoever for its use in making quilts or coats and jackets every once in a while.

It’s not a bad deal if you think about what you get for your investment… a top of the line, state of the art sewing, embroidery and quilting machine that can even talk you through tutorials.

You can even plug your computer or DVD player in and watch your favorite movie or television show on the large full color LCD touch screen. As a safety feature, however, you cannot sew while a video is running.

When you consider the fact that the folks at Consumers’ Digest gave it the Best Buy Award, that it is a good comfortable machine to work on and that it has so much to offer, I cannot come to any other conclusion but to say that it is a good buy… that is if you are willing to part with an amount of money comparable to the cost of a car… not a luxury car, but a car nonetheless.