Bernina Fan Club Archives

August 95

Sunday, August 27 - Saturday, September 2

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Date: Sun, 27 Aug 95 11:20:00 UTC
Subject: Bernina Stitch Designer

I bought the software program, Bernina Stitch Designer, when I bought my 1630
last year.  I have been working more diligently lately to learn how to use this
tool more effectively.  I have encountered a few problems this week in my
experiementation, so I am entering a plea for advice.  I have not seen very
many discussions in this mailing list about this topic in particular.  Please
feel free to send e-mail directly for long replies.
 
I scanned several items from the current issue of the Bernina Designer News,
which I received from my wonderful dealer.  Unfortunately, they have not had
the time necessary to work extensively with the software.  I converted the
files to bitmaps (*.BMP).  I then imported them to the Bernina Designer.  I set
stitches (mostly curved) at a stitch length of 2.3 mm, using the bitmap as an
outline guide.  I mainly set the stitches at the tangent points of the circles,
which formed the various curves.  When I stitched the designs with the 1630, I
ended up with the design, but it wasn't quite right.  At the end of the pattern
(at the right hand side) the machine added several horizontal straight stitches
(at a smaller stitch length) that are not appearing on the screen.  I was
intending to use some of these designs as borders, so the start and finish
points were aligned.  The starting point is at the left and the ending point is
at the right.  All of the samples included in the software pkg. do not have
this problem.
 
Has anyone else encountered this problem?  I also left a message on GEnie
Needlearts RT about this experience.  Any suggestions would be greatly
appreciated.
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Date: Sun, 27 Aug 1995 10:34:47 -0500
Subject: Kneelift

  I just wanted a heavy duty machine, and the knee 
>lift.

Ah, the kneelift!  One of the main reasons I'm sticking with my Bernina and
not going with another brand.  I love it (and my knee feels so deprived when
I use another make)!

                                  Jacque in South Texas
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Subject: Re: Resource Idea 
Date: Sun, 27 Aug 95 12:22:54 -0400

Bernina writes:

>Date: Sat, 26 Aug 1995 21:52:33 -0700
>Subject: Re: Resource Idea


>>I do the same thing with my logging files!  ( I thought I was being
>>obsessive.)  But I love to have information at my fingertips, so I just copy
>>like info each to its own subject file, so I can pick out which file I need
>>and pull up my references and info. That's why I love my computer! Happy
>>cut-and-pasting!
>>

>Hi - I just learned to cut and paste in Word Perfect for Wins.  Can I cut 
>and paste from the Internet?  and where do I paste it??  Andrea TIA


Cutting and pasting happens in the program that you are running on
your computer right on your desk.  So if the program that you use to
get into the Internet has a cut-and-paste feature, you can choose
something you see on the Internet and copy it into another program,
like WordPerfect.  It's an easy way to save a small piece of a larger
document (like a web page) or to include something you've found in a
new document that you are creating.

Debbie near Boston
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Date: Sun, 27 Aug 1995 17:04:08 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 8/26/95

I have enjoyed reading this board even though I didn't have a Bernina (a
mechanical Elna for the last year, before that, a nasty Singer). Since
Bernina is offering special financing (no payments no interest) for one year,
and I am moving to a new house in a month, I have decided to finally purchase
a nice machine to do all the curtains, Xmas gifts, slipcovers, etc. My
question is...I am interested in the 1090, 1260 and 1530, but would like
advice from you all, the experts, on the relative merits of these machines. I
don't do quilting now because I live in a tiny apartment, but would like to
learn. I make some clothes and a lot of home dec items...and I like making
crafts and gifts for others. I was going to look at Pfaff 1475 or 3550, and
Viking 1, too, but the Bernina financing option is really attractive and I
don't like a lot of the embroidery designs anyway. Problem is, the deadline
to get the machine is Aug. 31 - three days away! If you have any advice,
please respond here or email. Thanks for your ideas! I've enjoyed all your
comments.
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Date: Sun, 27 Aug 95 22:44:00 UTC
Subject: KneeLift

Unfortunatly, tho, bernina let the patent on the knee lift expire, and so
now many other models, will be showing up with those knee lifts, why new
home all ready has a knee lift.
 
To me, Bernie is the best machine.
 
Patches

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Date: Sun, 27 Aug 95 17:10 PDT
Subject: stitching in the ditch

Someone wrote in a few days ago concerned about wobbly lines while she was
stitching in the ditch.  I have two suggestions for her.
1) Use your #10 foot and run the black metal bar down the ditch. 
2) When you are stitching in the ditch, place your hands on either side of
the seam and pull gently.  That way, even if you wander a bit, when the
fabric relaxes again it will hide the wobble.
I have very dry hands and find it hard to get a grip on the fabric so I wear
golfing gloves when I machine quilt.  They are so light that I can even
thread needles while wearing them.  I know others use rubber finger tips and
other things.  I just like the gloves.

I have been reading and thinking about the tough husband talk.  I think the
problem is that we are all givers.  We give our time and talents to family,
friends and work and find it hard to take things for ourselves.  We seem to
think everyone is worthy but us.  So it becomes hard to talk ourselves into
treating ourselves.  Maybe it's not the husbands at all.  Maybe we have to
start thinking of ourselves as worth spoiling.
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Date: Sun, 27 Aug 1995 20:26:40 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Cost of Machines

Debbie: When I saw your post, I finally had to jump in! I was really amazed
at the number of people who were talking about lying to DH, getting
permission from, etc! I finally told my DH to check this out...he couldn't
believe it either. It was harder for me to justify to myself that *I* could
buy it than to worry about what DH would say! We have been married for 14
years and are not wealthy, but we are comfortable...more or less (G). Even
in the 'lean' days, we never felt the need for permission or
approval...strange about these other women, huh? I, too, was glad to see we
weren't alone! I guess the others like us finally couldn't take it anymore,
either! 

Glad someone finally spoke up....and yes, I actually gave DH a special hug
today...for not making me get permission for anything (G).

Robin 
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Date: Sun, 27 Aug 95 19:24:38 -0700
Subject: Which to buy?

I have a Bernina 1230, which is essentially the same as the 1260.  I
chose it because it sews beautifully for all the sewing I want to do:
machine quilting and piecing; sewing garments, including heavy
outerwear, knits, and fine fabrics like silks; and sewing home dec
items, tents and bags.  The alphabet is kind of fun, although actually
I rarely use it.  I think the buttonhole on the 1230 is automatic and
the 1090's is not (I could be wrong on that);  the 1260's buttonhole
is better still, since it's automatic AND both sides are sewn in the
same direction so the buttonhole matches.

I've sewn on the 1560.  My mother-in-law has one, and I use it in her
wonderful large sewing workroom whenever I visit.  I don't like it.
The user interface is annoying.  The track ball is hard to use, and
the screen is hard to read.  Whereas on my machine when I want to
change stitches or settings I have a convenient button or knob, on the
1560 you have to wander all over an irritating menu.  I would caution
anyone to be SURE you really want those extra stitches before plunking
down the big bucks to buy a machine with such an involved user
interface.

The only stitch I wish I had on my 1230 is a three step zigzag. 

So my advice, worth what you paid for it, is that unless you're doing
a whole lot of sewing where you're positive you want a zillion
stitches, buy either the 1260 (if the improved buttonhole and
alphabets are important) or the 1090 (if you don't care about the
buttonhole and the alphabets).

-- Anne P
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Date: Mon, 28 Aug 1995 02:13:06 -0400
Subject: New (old) Machine

Even though I have a computer sewing machine that I love, I was looking for a
good basic machine for my two daughters (10 and 13). I read these boards,
scanned the ads, and finally called my dealer. Lucky for me he had just
gotten an 830 electronic in trade! One week later, I happily brought it home.
In the meantime it had been cleaned, oiled, old parts replaced, and a new
manual ordered since the original was missing. It sews like brand-new and I
am having a ball playing with it; it occupies the "place of honor" in my
sewing room! (for now)

Youngest daughter has already used it to complete a few simple sewing
projects from Jan Saunders book, "Know Your Sewing Machine." She says she
likes the 830 even more than grandma's Elna Super! (another great machine)

For someone on a limited budget, I highly recommend buying a used-to-be top
of the line. The same money won't buy you much quality in a low-end new
machine.

I am thrilled to add the Bernina to my "family" of machines; a Viking #1, an
Elna serger, and a Pfaff serger -- all top of the line at one time; and all
terrific sewing tools!

BobbinCase
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Date: Mon, 28 Aug 95 07:39:59 EDT
Subject: Re: KneeLift

Another thought on the knee lift, does it bother anyone else that
instructor on TV quilting shows don't use the knee lift?  I've had some
instructors at a Bernina dealership that don't use the knee lift.  It is so
handy, I can't imagine not using it.

Ruth B
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Date: Mon, 28 Aug 95 07:41:41 EDT
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 8/26/95

The Pfaff 1475 has a rotten buttonhole system.  Had one.  Sold one.

Ruth B
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Date: Mon, 28 Aug 95 07:38:07 EDT
Subject: Re: KneeLift

Do you know that the patent ran out on the Bernina knee lift and Janome
(New Home) just came out with their 9000 model that has a wonderful knee
lift?

Ruth B
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Date: Mon, 28 Aug 1995 08:47:50 EDT
Subject: Re: BerninaDigest 8/25/95

Jerry:

Nancy from Nancy Notions has some very good books and
tapes on heirloom sewing.  

The Phaff book 'Peppering' is also excellent.

Lorna
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Subject: Rationalizations
Date: Mon, 28 Aug 95 09:27:00 EST

I'm  reading with interest the debate about DHs and how much you tell them. 
I mentioned it to my own dear husband, with whom I always discuss major 
purchases -- his and mine (we use each other as sounding boards). He said 
he'd been wondering when I was going to buy a new machine -- mine's 30 years 
old and in perfect condition -- and asked me one simple question: Would I 
use it? That's one of those reality questions... I piece and quilt -- how 
many features do I need? I'm still thinking...

I can advise anyone who needs a rationalization (vs. excuse) -- for 
themselves or for significant others -- to compare the cost of your habit 
with the hourly rate of a good psychotherapist or the monthly cost of 
antidepressive drugs.
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Date: Mon, 28 Aug 1995 10:53:59 -0500
Subject: general

Regarding husbands and money... I recall reading about Lady Bird Johnson 
having a discussion with Lucy or Linda, who was preparing to get married.  The
daughter referred to a joint checking account, to which Lady Bird responded,
"Joint checking account!  Why, I wouldn't have a joint account with the angel
Gabriel himself!"  Yep.  That was the day Lady Bird became my favorite first
lady.

Ida T
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Date: Mon, 28 Aug 1995 13:25:58 EDT
Subject: Re: Resource Idea

Andrea: 

Yes, you can copy and paste from the Internet.  You use the 
cursor, just like you would in a Word Perfect document, 
to  select the text that you would like to copy.

Click on Edit in the Menu Bar and select 'Copy' from the drop
down list. This will copy the selected area to the Windows 
'ClipBoard'. 

Lets say that you want to paste the first line in your memo:
 .."Hi - I just learned to cut and paste in Word  Perfect for
           Wins.  Can I cut"     (which I just copy - pasted), 
into a Word Perfect document.  You already copied the 
text above.  Now you need to open a Word Perfect document, 
if you have not already done so, and select Edit from the 
Menu Bar and 'Paste'  from the drop down box.  

Hope this will help.

Lorna
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Date: Mon, 28 Aug 1995 15:13:01 EST
Subject: hint for jacket jazz

Hi all,
For those of you who are using the jacket jazz books ----
For the foundation on which you place your fabric manipulations use the 
following instead of flannel (which is too heavy for south florida) --
a fine batiste -- English or otherwise -- works very well, just wash it and 
iron it first.  I would also make certain it is cotton 100%.

I'm starting jacket number two in shades of blue.  First was in browns.

Another hint -- any kind of fabric manipulation that one does in quilting 
can be incorporated into the jackets.  Placement is the problem.  The 
window pane quilting "thing", works fine.  Much pinning, but rather than 
sew by hand, Ive done it on the 1630.  The pins just have to be taken out 
every few stitches or so, but Id rather pin than aggravate the carpal 
tunnel.

Im now trying to find a fabric manipulation to use to join next to an area 
that is fairly intricate.  Want something fairly plain, that will work on a 
single piece of fabric -- have used the shirring (gathering?) and have also 
done random quilting stitches.  Any other ideas?  Thanks for input and 
listening.
Paula 
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Date: Mon, 28 Aug 1995 12:47:54 -0700
Subject: Which machine to choose?

>
>I have enjoyed reading this board even though I didn't have a Bernina (a
>mechanical Elna for the last year, before that, a nasty Singer). Since
>Bernina is offering special financing (no payments no interest) for one year,
>and I am moving to a new house in a month, I have decided to finally purchase
>a nice machine to do all the curtains, Xmas gifts, slipcovers, etc. My
>question is...I am interested in the 1090, 1260 and 1530, but would like
>advice from you all, the experts, on the relative merits of these machines. I
>don't do quilting now because I live in a tiny apartment, but would like to
>learn. I make some clothes and a lot of home dec items...and I like making
>crafts and gifts for others. I was going to look at Pfaff 1475 or 3550, and
>Viking 1, too, but the Bernina financing option is really attractive and I
>don't like a lot of the embroidery designs anyway. Problem is, the deadline
>to get the machine is Aug. 31 - three days away! If you have any advice,
>please respond here or email. Thanks for your ideas! I've enjoyed all your
>comments.


I'm a 1530 owner and wouldn't trade it for the WORLD!  I decided on the 1530
because I liked the trackball system and the extra stitches.  If I remember
correctly, the buttonhole stuff is the same on the 1260 and the 1530, since
that was one of the main features I was looking for.  In the same digest as
the above quote, Anne Paulson was describing how she didn't like the
trackball....and yet it was that very feature that attracted me!  I thought
it was a simple and elegant solution to having to hit a bunch of
buttons......  Of course it might make a difference that I work with
computers for a living and that entire menu system just seemed so logical to
me (many of us who work with computers are a wee bit different and have a
different view of logic! ;) )

During my search, I also looked seriously at the Pfaff, but decided against
it because it wasn't as sturdy and reliable as my old Pfaff 1220
(predecessor to my Bernina 1530).  I didn't think the stitch quality was as
good, and the menu system seemed slow and cumbersome...plus I didn't like
the plastic construction of everything.

My idea of the perfect machine is whatever makes one happy!  Of course, now
that I have a Bernina I'd never switch to a non-Bernina machine, but there
are so many great models within the Bernina family (now I'm drooling over
the new 2000DCE serger).  I was also lucky because money didn't have to
enter into my considerations....it was a gift and all I had to do was find
"what I REALLY wanted."  So I did!  

Good luck....happy sewing....
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Date: Mon, 28 Aug 1995 17:05:50 -0400
Subject: Re: Tough Husbands

I'm happy to say I do not think Debbie is being unreasonalble.  We've been
married nearly 8 years and have never fought about money.

Yes when one of us wants to make a purchase that is a high dollar amount we
do discuss it.  And we are frank about weather we think the budget will bear
it.  But we have many times agreed to freeze spending for a given period so
that one or the other may purchase a given item.

I do not have my Bernina yet.  But not because I've been denied permission to
purchase it.  I would rather have the 1260.  I can go out and get the 1090
but I'd rather wait till november and get the model I want.  We agreed
togeather not to incur any credit debt as we hope to purchase a larger home
in the next 6 mos and that would hurt our qualifing.

I handle the books both at our company and at home and between us we do quite
well at understand each others need for "pocket money".  The only time DH put
his foot down was my first 2 mos after discovering quilting.  I had purchased
several Hundred dollars in supplies and had yet to cut the first pieces.  And
then it was just a matter of "either make something or quit collecting all
this expensive crap".

So take heart. ... not all DH's are unreasonable.

Pam
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Date: 28 Aug 1995 17:34:59 -0700
Subject: Erma Martin Yost Workshop

Hi all,
I think this is the first time I've posted to this list though I've enjoyed
reading it since the beginning.  I have an 1130, which has been a great
machine, but I do get jealous hearing about the wondrous things you all do
with newer Berninas.

I'm writing because I just finished a two-day workshop with Erma Martin Yost. 
She makes beautiful fiber art/quilts/ etc. and has been featured in American
Craft, Fiber Art, Surface Design Association (I just attended their conference
in Portland OR--did anyone else go?), and is represented by a gallery in NYC.

Anyway, we (East Bay Heritage Quilters -- Harriet gave us a great workshop
also some time ago) learned so many image transfer and surface design
techniques in two days it was mind-boggling.  After she has transfered photos
or designs or painted on fabric, etc. she wonder unders the fabric to canvas
and sits down to her TWO Berninas.  She has a 1230 and a loaned 1630 (from
Bernina).  She has the machines set side by side and sets them up differently,
either with different colored thread or so that one loops, whatever.  Then she
can move quickly back and forth between machines.  She definitely promoted
Bernina in the workshop and demonstrated her machine embroidery techniques.  I
promised I'd tell this group about her because she is afraid Bernina is going
to come and get the 1630 (they wrote a letter indicating loaned machines would
be called in).  So, if anyone knows someone at Bernina, please let them know
that artists like Erma and Harriet are good promoters of their machines and we
want them to keep learning new things to show us.

Sue
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Date: Mon, 28 Aug 1995 19:12:59 -0600
Subject: Re:KneeLift

I can't get used to using the knee lift (I feel like a traitor to
Bernina). Never had a knee lift until I bought my 930 (used) about
5 years ago. Tried the knee lift then for a while, found it awkward
and put it away until this year when I decided to try again. This time
it was even worse - I still automatically reached with my hand before
my brain told my knee, and with a new bionic hip that outward motion
is not exactly painful, but noticable. However, I'm sure that movement
is helpful therapy for a new hip, and you all rave about the knee lift
so much I am going to stick with it until it becomes a habit! VBG
Love this forum, but I catch myself wanting new equipment (a serger,
an embroidery machine, etc) when I really don't need them!
Betty
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Date: Mon, 28 Aug 1995 22:56:02 -0400
Subject: Re: Hints for Jazz Jacket

Have you tried pin tucks using 2 diff threads?  Or stiple quilting?  Or
scrunch?  How about some paper piecing?  Or pleats on a perfect pleater?
 What is the "window pane quilting technique" you mention?

Lisa -- another jacket jazz junkie ;-)
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Date: Tue, 29 Aug 95 03:23:00 UTC
Subject: Re:KneeLift

Ruth,
 
I know people who don't use the knee lift, and I am still amazed as to why
they don't.  go figure 
 
Patches
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Date: Tue, 29 Aug 95 03:44:00 UTC
Subject: Which Machine to Chose

Louise,
 I really like the "mouse" on the 1530, too. And I doubted that I'd use all
those stitches when I bought it, but find that I do. Maybe not to the extent
that would justify the cost of the machine, but at least they're there when
I need or want them. I'm a computer junkie from way back before DOS even, so
like you, it was an easy thing for me to pick up on these controls. I love
that machine. Tell it good night every night before I go to bed, even when
I'm too drained from the work day to use it. :)
 
                                Petchy
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te: Tue, 29 Aug 95 04:02:00 UTC
Subject: Re: KneeLift

The trouble I had with the knee lift at first is that for several years (and
this was many, many years ago) I had my mother's friend's machine and you
used the knee lever to make the machine go. What is so strange is that when
I started with the 1530 I kept pushing on that knee bar to get the machine
going. We're talking maybe 35 years since I had that other machine and yet
that motion came back to me. I still do it occasionally, but I really like
holding something with both hands and using my knee to bring that foot down.
 
                                Petchy
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Date: Mon, 28 Aug 1995 22:42:13 -0700
Subject: Knee Lift

I too had a little coordination trouble four years ago when I first tried
to use the knee lift on my 1090. But then a friend who was a lifelong
Bernina user told me that she always used her left foot for the gas,
leaving her right knee free for lifting. I tried it and I've been sewing
left-footed ever since.

Hope it works,
Lynn
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Date: Tue, 29 Aug 1995 08:20:46 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Tough Husbands

 I am going to buy a deco 500 this week, taking advantage of Berninas 12 
months same as cash deal using their credit card. My husband is being 
rather jerky about the whole thing. I shouldnt have to feel guilty about 
this because I DO use my machines. Most unlike the thousands he spent on 
power tools and never used. Anyway, As someone posted earlier, you could 
get run over tomorrow, so enjoy today. And I will. 
Robin

PS I read this group faithfully, but never posted much. I hope I am doing 
this right. If I'm not will some kind soul please tell me. 
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Date: Tue, 29 Aug 1995 08:33:10 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Tough Husbands
> 
> As a single woman who supports herself, I've been a little shocked at
> some of the conversation about husbands and permission to buy
> Berninas.  Maybe it's because the only permission I need to buy
> anything is my own and my checking account's :-).  And maybe it's
> because I have an idealized, impractical view of marriage due to lack
> of experience with it.  BUT, it seems to me that it shouldn't matter
> who earns more or even if one of you is staying at home, working hard
> at raising children and/or organizing the feathers in the family's
> nest.  You and your husband both contribute to the marriage, the work
> of your family, and its economy.  You should both share in the
> spending of discretionary income.  You and your husband are both
> adults, and can both understand the trade-offs in spending your money
> one way or another.  (Statistics tell us that women are the money
> managers in more than half of American households.)  Why is it that so
> many of us seem to think this is a matter of permission, and not a
> matter of equal discussion about your family's financial strategy and
> choices? 
> 
> Am I just some New England "women's-libber" who is out of touch with
> reality?  Am I misinterpretting what I am reading here?
> 
> Debbie D


No, Debbie, you are not misinterpreting anything, but even in "this day &
age" there seems to be a struggle in households. Due to power or money I 
am not sure. I am an intelligent, college educated, 39 year old. I now 
work part time, though I quit my full time to be at home for my children 
now 7 &10. However, I do not plan to sacrifice my SELF and personality 
to slave for children &husband all the time, though he'd certainly like 
me to. I love my sewing and I'm going to do it. If he doesnt like it he 
can divorce me. It's unfortunate that many of us sewers have to resort to 
some devious ways to acquire a machine, but I guess we just do what works.
Robin S
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Date: Tue, 29 Aug 1995 09:19:51 -0400
Subject: Knee lift

I bought my Bernina in April and haven't yet completed the instruction.
 Maybe I'll learn about the knee lift from the remaining class.  BUT--I don't
know how to use it!  Please let me know (privately so as not to junk up this
board unless you think it's of geneeral interest) when you use it, why you
use it, why you prefer it?  Is it only helpful for machine quilting?
Thanks.
Jean
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Date: Tue, 29 Aug 95 07:43:54 MDT
Subject: Freedom of Thought and Speech.

The Internet was designed for exchange of ideas and viewpoints.  Everyone has 
the right to express their viewpoint and problems.  Every company has good and 
bad. To imply that we shouldn't use the INTERNET to express our experiences 
with an item/business is implying that we should not use our "RIGHT" of 
freedom of speech.  I personally, have two machines, a 1090 and a 2000DE.  The 
equipment is great, but I would not recommend the dealer, who by the way has 
been top running dealer in CANADA for 3 years, or at least this is what the 
plaques and advertising says.
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Subject: Jazz Jacket
Date: Tue, 29 Aug 1995 10:31:56 +0100

Could someone describe a jazz jacket for me? I've never heard of them here
in the UK, but they sound fascinating. Anyone here know of a source for the
books or are there any US mail-order companies who mail to the UK? 
The BFC is fantastic and I am learning so much, but getting more and more
frustrated at the the things not available here. One bright spot though -
Schmetz Embroidery and Quilting needles have just appeared in the shops! We
seem to get even less support from Bernina in terms of classes and
publications than you do in the US! 

-- 
Nita B
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Date: 29 Aug 95 10:14:02 EDT
Subject: Bernina Knee Lift

Ladies:

I am one of those who does not use the knee lift on my Bernina and I think I
have a good reason why I don't. Because I sew on my dining room table and
because I have long legs that often don't fit under the table, the knee lift is
akward to use. It also gets in the way when I have to move my machine to feed
the family. I do use it for some projects, but not all the time. I
promise,though, when I get a table just for my machine (and a room to put it in)
I will use the knee lift more often .

I am signed up for Harrtie Hargrave's MQing class at the International Quilt
Festival, Houston in November!!! Looking forward to meeting her.

Ginny
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Date: 29 Aug 95 11:10:02 EDT
Subject: Bernina Digest 8/28/95

Betty,

If you really have trouble remembering the knee lift, you can do one of 2
things.  Try taping you presser foot lifter down, or, you can have your dealer
remove it for awhile.

Sue
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Date: Tue, 29 Aug 1995 10:08:35 -0700
Subject: kneelifts

When I first set out to buy a better sewing machine, and was test-driving a 
Bernina, I kept trying to "make it go" by pressing my thigh into the kneelift - 
like many of you, the first machine I learned on (Elna) had its motor control 
through the kneelift mechanism, rather than a foot pedal.  During the 
test-drive, all that happened of course was that the foot came down.  I thought,
Why on earth would anyone want that???  I did buy a Bernina, but one without the
lift.

Five years later I  started to get ideas.  I had gone over to a friend's, who 
had a 1230, to learn how to machine applique.  I invariably pressed the lift to 
"make it go" but also started to see how having it might be very useful.  I 
started dreaming about trading up, and finally did get a new machine with the 
lift.  It still took a while (2 weeks?) to get used to it, but it's worth it.  
You will learn quickly how nice and free it leaves your hands, and soon you 
won't be able to live without it.  I actually have two lifts - a long one with a
bended elbow, and a short straight one.  Usually use the short one when the 
machine is in its well in the table, and the bended-elbow one when the machine 
sits on top of the table (when I using the free arm).

They say if you can try on a new habit/break an old one for 7 days, you've done 
the hard part.  For those of you not using the kneelift, try it for a decent 
time, because it does take time to rewire the sewing neurons and muscles, and 
it's not a fair trial to say, I tried it for one night and hate it.

Maybe on the tv show the host doesn't use the kneelift so that she can show a 
"generic" technique.  Lots of people out there without Berninas might write in 
otherwise and say, It's all well and good for HER, but *I* can't do it because I
don't have that kneelift thingy.  Nevermind that they skipped step two and are 
using different fabric and have changed things around a bit - they'd blame it on
the host and her kneelift.

--Pia 
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ate: Tue, 29 Aug 95 13:41:19 -0400
Subject: re: Bernina Consumer University

Hi everyone,  I am a new Bernina owner.  Can someone tell me what Bernina 
Consumer University is and where do you find a schedule?  I am trying to 
learn all I can about my 'nina, I ordered every Bernina book that I saw in 
the new Clotilde catalog, can't wait until they arrive. 

nancy j.
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Date: Tue, 29 Aug 1995 15:58:01 -0400
Subject: Re: Which machine?

I have the 1530 and love it dearly, and my recommendation is for 
it or the 1260.

I have been telling everyone that the Bernina 1260 is the same 
as the 1530, but without the track ball because that's what I 
was originally told. However, I recently got a flyer from a 
dealer who is having a Bernina sale, and this is what it says:

1260
Famous Bernina self-adjusting tension
2 buttonholes and 2 alphabets
Memory holds up to 50 stitch patterns
Mirror imaging of stitches
Hands free presser foot lifter
Basting stitch adjustable up to 1"

(#1 and #5 are on most Berninas except the 1630 doesn't have the
tension thing.)

1530
Exclusive command ball operation provides 1-touch sewing control
Hundreds of stitch combinations
8 buttonholes and 2 alphabets
Patented hook system delivers Bernina's legendary stitch quality
 (Note that this is more or less the same as #1 above)
LCD viewing screen
3 sewing speeds
  (Whoops, I didn't know that; I thought there were 2)
Memory capacity of up to 630 stitch patterns

So there is some difference but if the extras on the 1530 are not important
to you, and there is a big price difference, you might want to consider the
1260. At the time I bought mine, there was only about $100 difference in
price.

Also, the advice to get older, used, top of the line machines is excellent. I
advised a friend of mine about 4 years ago to get a used 830 from a dealer,
so that she would (a) get some instruction and (b) be sure it was
reconditioned properly. She did this and has never regretted it. At that time
she paid about $350. I would sure rather pay that for a reconditioned 830
than to buy a new machine of some other brand for that amount. My 830 is,
however, waiting for my granddaughter to get a little older, so it isn't for
sale.

Regarding Bernina calling in loaned machines which people are using in
promoting their product: they are apparently the only company who does this
with people who are truly promoting their machines. Jackie Dodson, who has
written all the Know your Bernina, Know your Elna, etc. books, is in a
textile arts guild which I belong to and says that only Bernina makes you
give them back. She has gotten to keep all the others. Would you not think
that promotion is worth something to them? There is a certain amount of
arrogance here, and I'm not trying to start a war about this, and no, Bernina
does not run or belong to this list, so there is nothing we can do about the
arrogance. I will still buy Berninas till hell freezes over, even if they are
arrogant, because I know two wonderful dealers in the Chicago area who will
keep me happy.

Mary M
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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 95 00:28:00 UTC
Subject: Bernina Digest 8/28/95

Betty,
   One of my Buds on GEnie gave me instructions for using the knee lift with
the right knee and the foot pedal with the left foot.  That would free up
your right leg for the knee lift.  She said it took a little time to get
accustomed to using both legs and the left foot for specific tasks but now
that she had become used to it she found it much better.  That is on my
agenda the next time I get to the machine.  I want to get one of the pads
that holds the foot pedal in one place also and that should help with
changing over to my left leg and foot.  Just thought you might want to give
this some thought since you have not gotten accustomed to the knee lift.
Maybe you could accomplish both switches at the same time.  Good luck.
 
    Nikki
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Date: Tue, 29 Aug 1995 22:26:05 -0600
Subject: Knee Lift Story

Couldn't resist passing on a story I heard from a rather famous Bernina
user.  I was attending one of her workshops and she talked about how drawn
she was to the knee-lift.  She mentioned a class where someone who used a
Bernina was using another kind of machine, tried to use the knee-lift, lost
her balance and fell over---then she confessed that she was the person, and
coincidentally, the teacher of the workshop!  I loved it.

Jane
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Date: Tue, 29 Aug 1995 21:01:56 -0700
Subject: Bernina Fan Club

Sue:  For some reason our computer cannot access ttsw.com.  Our sysadmin
said it is a problem with the Spring telephone lines, but the problem has
never been corrected.  Do you know how you could make ttsw.com accessible
by my node, crl.com?

Anyway, here is something I wanted to post to the Bernina Fan Club.
Someone was inquiring about wanting a used Bernina 930.  My DH happened to
fine one advertised in our local paper for $1,OOO.OO.  The phone # they
gave is: 415-479-3837. This is in the San Francisco Bay area.  Thanks
for posting this.  Nancy
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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 95 06:51:00 UTC
Subject: Re:Tough Husbands

Robin,
 Congrats on your emancipation! :) My husband wasn't thrilled about me buying
the Deco 500, either, but his only admonition was to ask if I thought I'd
really use it -- or play with it a little and then let it sit. He knows how
impulsive I am. But I do think I'll get a lot of use, and fun, from this
machine.
 
I just spent 4 hours using the scanner for the first time. First I went into
Corel Draw and pulled up a piece of clip art I liked (for a swap on GEnie of
fall themed embroidered pieces). Changed it a little here and there, then
printed it out. Went through the whole scanning and coloring in routine and
saved it to the little card. The embroidery part was easy, except that I had
a lot of color changes and a few broken threads along the way. However, it
took TWO hours of embroidering time. Not so sure I want to make a bunch of
these for the swap.
 
                                Petchy
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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 95 05:48:00 UTC
Subject: Bernina Knee Lift

Ginny,
 
You will love meeting Harriet,  She is truly wonderful.  I have enjoyed all
the classes, I have taken with her.
 
She is truly an inspiration to all of us learning the art of machine
quilting.  She know, her machines, inside and out, and she even knows, what
info, is on what pages in her books.  She is honest and forthright, and is
one of the best teachers, you will ever have the privelege of taking a class
from.
 
Best wishes to you,
 
Patches
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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 95 06:30:10 EDT
Subject: Re: KneeLift

Petchy,
I learned on my mother's old Kenmore (White).  It took me several years
before I was willing to "unbreak" the old habit and learn how to use the
Bernina knee lift, but with the encouragement of a great sewing teacher/
Bernina salesperson, I did it &it was well worth the effort.  Keep trying.

Ruth B
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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 1995 01:10:10 -0400
Subject: New Member and a Knee Lift "Funny HaHa"

Hi...
   I'm a brand new member of this group, so let me introduce myself.  I'm
from Houston and still live here...my name is Carolyn...and I've been in love
with Bernina machines since college and an owner for the past 11 years.

   As for why I don't use my Knee Lift...  When I very first got my machine
(a 930) I put the knee lift bar on and promptly kept pushing it expecting the
machine to sew....see, the 1925 Singer model I learned on had (and still
has!) a knee lever for running the machine rather than a foot pedal.  Soooo,
I kept raising the presser foot and losing my starting place...I gave up the
Knee Lift.

   As for why I don't use it now that I've been away from that Singer for all
these years, I broke my right hip several years ago.  Rather than replace a
30 something hip, they decided to let me keep it and just deal with the
problems...wellllll, one of the biggest is that I can't move it to the right
very well, much less exert enough force to move the bar.  Plus, it hurts if I
accidentally hit that bar with that thigh...

   Anyway...I still sew fairly well without the knee lift, but I sure would
love to have a "Needle Down" button on this 930...who would have thought that
I would ever have a use for that feature?????

   Stitchn' away...Carolyn
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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 1995 09:18:01 -0400
Subject: You should be using teh foot pedal under the left foot if using the knee lift

hi all,

regarding the knee lift... 

My first BRAND NEW sewing machine was a 1090 (after a Monkey Ward's so-so
clunker).  It took me literally 5 minutes to get used to the knee lift since
my sewing wiring was not yet burned in with any other scheme.

It was also easy to get used to the foot pedal under the left foot, after
having had  to chase that devil of a little pedal the older machine had
(Bernina pedals are nice and big :) 

Ergonomically speaking, one should actually use the foot pedal under the
left foot if using the knee lift.  When operating the foot pedal, the
'tensing' in the leg required to press on the pedal finds its anchor
(naturally) at the knee.  Trying to use both pedal and lift with the right
leg means that you would be pressing sideways with a 'locked' knee. Not too
good for the knee, in addition to be plainly tiring. Try it :) and the
difference is (imo) obvious.  

When I was recently at a Bernina dealership to 'play' with a machine, which
happened not to have its lift in place, I kept 'poking' sideways against the
'invisible' knee lift.  The dealer chuckled and just said "there goes a
Bernina user..."

 Sylvain
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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 95 12:55:00 UTC
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 8/29/95

I don't think I'd have the dealer remove the presser foot hand lever. The
knee lift doesn't lift and lock the foot -- it only lifts it and then puts
it back down. You'd have to use your knee to hold it up all the time.
 
                                Petchy
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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 1995 09:04:10 -0500
Subject: Re: Knee Lift

I can witness to the usefullness of the knee lift.  I use it all the time.
I use my left foot on the foot pedal (now that took a awhile to get used to) and
I use my right knee to lift and lower the presser foot with the knee lift.  It
leaves my hands free to control the fabric.  I use the knee lift at all times
whether it is quilting, garment sewing, embroidery or etc.  It does take some
getting used too but it is well worth it IMHO.  When I sew I like to concentrate
on sewing and the knee lift allows me to do that.  The only problem is now I
want to drive my serger with my left foot and it doesn't work as well because
it really goes when I barely press the foot pedal.  My left foot just doesn't
have the control that my right foot has for my serger pedal.  Happy Sewing!

Lorrie
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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 1995 10:14:01 -0500
Subject: Re: KneeLift

>The trouble I had with the knee lift at first is that for several years (and
>this was many, many years ago) I had my mother's friend's machine and you
>used the knee lever to make the machine go. What is so strange is that when
>I started with the 1530 I kept pushing on that knee bar to get the machine
>going. 

Petchy - My mother had a White that had the same thing--the knee bar to
operate the machine.  When my husband bought me a new machine (I had her
White after she died and that's actually the machine I learned to sew on), I
didn't know where the knee bar went--I thought all sewing machines were like
that!  But I DO love the kneelift on the Bernina--can't imagine sewing
without it!

                                Jacque in South Texas
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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 1995 13:15:10 -0400
Subject: Re: Knee Lift

Lynn,
     Thanks for your tip.  I haven't gotten used to my knee lift yet.
 Actually I kind of gave up on it but after reading your post I'm going to
give it another try.  I brake my car with my left foot so using my left foot
to run my Bernina's "gas" may work for me.  

Happy sewing,
Candy B
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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 1995 12:41:14 -0500
Subject: Bernina Feet

I just saw Mary Lou Nall's books on Bernina feet in the new Clotilde
catalog. There are 3 books,  Foot Book-I, Foot Book-II and Just Needling.
Are these any good and do they apply to all Berninas?  I just purchased a
1530 this summer and haven't had a chance to take any lessons yet.

thanks, Sarita
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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 1995 13:19:14 -0400
Subject: Re: Berninia Digest 8/28/95

Nikki,
     Thanks for passing on the hint for getting used to the knee lift.  I'm
 also having trouble getting used to it but will try your suggestion the next
time I'm at the sewing machine.

Happy sewing,
Candy B
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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 1995 08:26:02 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Bought (Splurged on?) a 1260

Hi everyone,

A couple of weeks ago I was asking for recommendations on the 1001 
machine.  After reading several posts about the 1001 and then about the 
benefits of the computerized machines, I decided on and bought the 1260.  
(Not having a husband, the monetary decision was quick and easy.  Of 
course, the 12-month no payment and no interest deal was a help.  Guess 
I'll put regular "payments" into a money market fund, then pay it off at 
the 12-month due date and keep the interest earnings.  Did I say keep the 
interest? -- I'll probably use it to buy more feet for my machine!)

Anyway, I have had one observation so far (apart from loving the 
machine).  Has anyone else noticed the different "pitches" in the humming 
of the machine when you press the different stitch buttons?  The #1 
straight stitch as well as the #5 and #8 (I think -- and which have straight 
stitch components, I believe) sound different from the rest of the stitch 
buttons.  That's without sewing -- that's just while playing with the 
buttons.  Does anyone know why that is?  First I thought it was just my 
ears; then I thought maybe my machine just has a quirk.  I know I can ask 
the dealer, but you all seem to know so much more!!!  How about it?

I really love this group.  I'm so glad I joined.  Thanks.

Susan
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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 1995 08:33:12 -0700
Subject: replacing needles

I'm reading a book right now about machine embroidery (Ginny Eckley's 
"Quilted Sea Tapestries") that says the needle should be replaced 
after 8 hours of use.  Are they any die-hard embroiderers out there 
who can tell me if this is sound advice?

Right now I usually change needles when I start a new project or 2-3 
times during a larger project.  I would guess that's about every 20 
hours or so.  What would I gain by switching more often - better 
looking work, ease of needling, ???

(I do oil &clean my machine every 4-6 hours.)

--Pia
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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 1995 12:51:24 -0500
Subject: Generic feet

Has anyone used generic feet on their Berninas?  Clotilde Catalog sells a
low shank adaptor for $11.20.  I understand you need an adaptor for any
creative feet and for generic low shank feet.  Is it better to buy Bernina
feet?

Thanks, Sarita
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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 1995 10:31:14 -0500
Subject: Re: Jazz Jacket


>Could someone describe a jazz jacket for me? I've never heard of them here
>in the UK, but they sound fascinating. Anyone here know of a source for the
>books or are there any US mail-order companies who mail to the UK? 

Nita - Jazz jackets are made up of patchwork, pieced work, and fabric
manipulations.  Manipulations are such things as "scrunching" the fabric to
get "planned wrinkles" and then sewing over the wrinkles with decorative
threads and stitches--I've even couched ribbon and beads on; pleats/tucks
with ribbons inserted in them and then sewn down in opposite directions;
long rows of "prairie points" made from a single strip of fabric; "blooming"
where you layer several farics and then cut open all layers (except the
bottom) so that the cut edges fray and "bloom," etc.  They can be made from
any fabric, from calico prints to denim to lames, silks, satins, and
velvets, depending on the look you want to create.  

The two books by Judy Murrah (creator of "Jazz Jackets") that are now
available (with a third coming out early next year) are "Jacket Jazz" and
"Jacket Jazz Encore."  Both are published by That Patchwork Place, PO Box
118, Bothell WA 98041-0118 and list for about $21-$22 (US).  I'm sure they
would be glad to ship to you!  Perhaps your local quilt shop can order for you.

Wish I could show you a picture of some of these jackets.  Words can't
describe them.  But--a word of warning (actually two):  (1) When you make
and wear a Jazz Jacket, you have to be ready to be stared at and questioned
about where you got that jacket!  And be prepared to accept compliments,
too.  They're very creative and can be rather wild--depending upon your
fabric choices.  And (2) They're habit-forming!  I've made 7 so far, with
plans for more!  I love 'em!

                        Jacque in South Texas

PS - If you can't find a way to order one locally, let me know and I'll be
glad to pick up one (or both) for you!   Judy's Jazz Jacket Junkies will be
international!
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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 1995 08:07:11 -0700
Subject: Re: Knee Lift

You wrote: 

> Maybe I'll learn about the knee lift from the remaining class.  
BUT--I don't
>know how to use it!  Please let me know (privately so as not to junk 
up this
>board unless you think it's of geneeral interest) when you use it, why 
you
>use it, why you prefer it?  Is it only helpful for machine quilting?
>Thanks.
>Jean

Jean,

    I don't do machine quilting and I use the knee lift all the time.  
The two main reasons that come to mind are:

    1.  When sewing a tight curve I like to lift the presser foot every 
few stitches to keep the seam allowance accurate.  With the "needle 
down" position (another favorite of mine!), I can stop every few 
stitches and lift with my knee while easing the seam with my hands.

    2.  Slippery fabrics require two hands to keep the seam allowance 
aligned while getting everything under the pressure foot.  When it's 
all in place I can let the pressure foot down without letting go of the 
fabric.  It stays where I want it.

    I can't imagine not using it anymore.

    Gool luck

--Ruthann
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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 1995 16:56:28 -0400
Subject: Why to use the knee lift:

Mind you, my only Bernina experience is with a 1630 (poor me...) but I would
be this holds true. 

First off, you can raise the presser foot higher with the knee lift than with
that the tension lever. This makes it faster to switch feet. The knee lift
releases the thread tension as well as lifting the foot. 

I quilt, and am starting to teach, and I discovered that I can zoom through
1/2 square triangle grids by sewing to the end of the grid, using the knee
lift to raise the foot while I rotate the fabric, then zoom to the end of the
grid again. I also hit the needle down lever, so I can use that to pivot.
Last week when I taught none of my students had needle down, let alone knee
lifts. I had brought my Pfaff, since I hate carry my bernina around, but I
didn't use the needle down, so I could demonstrate for my students on their
level. What a pain. I am so used to chain piecing, then using the knee lift
to raise the pressure foot while I position the next piece, if I have to, or
at the end of the chain  when I can quickly raise the foot, release the
tension and hook the thread on the built in cutter. 

Also, if you are piecing something like log cabins, where you are adding
small blocks to a longer strip, you can really go fast. First, put the strip
on the bottom. Then put the block you are adding on top. Set the machine for
needle down. Sew to the end of the block and stop as soon as your needle is
off the block. Raise the foot, slip the next block in against the needle and
sew to the end of the block.....

After saying all this, I have no clue as to why it takes me six months to
make a quilt.....

On another topic, I had a $25 coupon against a $50 Bernina accessory
purchase. I ended up using it for a $31 straight stitch plate, and an $18 box
of bobbins. The bill was $26. Probably not what the dealer planned when she
sent the coupon. But the clerk was dumb enough to call my house and leave a
message with my husband that the plate I wanted was in, and $31. He had no
clue what she was talking about. He didn't seem concerned, but over the
weekend at some point I teased him about the fish he catches costing us about
$1000 a pound by the time you add up all his fishing equipment. He said I
probably have more bucks in  Bernina accessories than he has in his fishing
poles.... 

This discussion on asking permission is fascinating to me, because it seems
to go much deeper to than just buying a sewing machine. (Although the story
of how I got my 1630 is fairly entertaining, and includes my husband's 1966
Oldsmobile Toronado rolling down our driveway and removing the mailbox.) 

Money can be a control issue in a relationship. Some people need to control
their money, others don't. My husband supports our household by himself, but
would hate to have to balance a checkbook. I don't mind balancing a checkbook
at all, and I like to shop. So he earns all the money and I spend it. In my
opinion this is a great symbiotic relationship. If I want something expensive
I tell my husband that I am thinking of buying it, to see what he thinks.
Talking to him helps me decide if I really need that item. I can't remember
him ever saying no to something I ended up really wanting. Sometimes I shop
for something for three months and then decide I don't really want it. When
we bought the Bernina, I really wanted it, but the price seemed so high, and
 I kept waffling. On Mondays and Wednesdays it seemed ridiculous to spend
almost $3,000 on a sewing machine. On Tuesdays and Thursdays I DESERVED IT.
Finally I think my husband bought it to shut me up. Now I think of it as a
marvelous gift that my supportive husband bought for me. Much the same way as
we would think of a fur coat when that was still politically acceptable. 

RobbiE
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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 1995 17:33:56 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 8/29/95

Petchy,
I learned to sew the same way, with a knee pedal.  My grandmother taught me,
she always used a knee pedal on all of her machines, I can remember her
taping her foot pedal to the leg of the cabinet to make a knee pedal.  The
knee lift took me awhile, but now I 've gotten it all straightened out.
 Sometimes I forget to use it, but it does come in so handy for machine
quilting.
went to my dealers today and played with the scanner.  It worked great!  I
really want one, but must pay off the Deco first....

Unless I win the lotto>>>>>
Roni
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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 1995 20:06:48 -0400
Subject: Re: Jazz Jacket

The Jazz Jackets are pieced with many different sorts of embellishments, etc.
 The source that is available in the USA for the books is Nancy's Notions
1-800-833-0690; or 333 Beichl Avenue, PO Box 683, Beaver Dam,Wisconsin,
53916-0683, USA., the catalogue number for the first book Jacket Hazz is JJ-3
 $21.95; for the second book Jacket jazz Encore is JJE-2,$22.95.
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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 1995 22:13:12 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 8/29/95

In a message dated 95-08-30 11:13:41 EDT, you write:

>No, Debbie, you are not misinterpreting anything, but even in "this day &
>age" there seems to be a struggle in households. Due to power or money I 
>am not sure. I am an intelligent, college educated, 39 year old. I now 
>work part time, though I quit my full time to be at home for my children 
>now 7 &10. However, I do not plan to sacrifice my SELF and personality 
>to slave for children &husband all the time, though he'd certainly like 
>me to. I love my sewing and I'm going to do it. If he doesnt like it he 
>can divorce me. It's unfortunate that many of us sewers have to resort to 
>some devious ways to acquire a machine, but I guess we just do what works.
>Robin Sayre


Dear Robin,

For my husband and I it's a matter of priorities.  If either of us was
willing to divorce for the sake of a hobby our marriage would have crumbled
long ago.  Yesterday we celebrated our 14th year of putting the other's needs
ahead of our own.  Today my husband watched the kids all morning long until
after lunch so I could indulge in my sewing.  He not only appreciates the
value of my having a pastime that helps me maintain my sanity and sunny
disposition, but he likes the clothes I make for the family.

If either of us became so addicted to a hobby that it threatened our marriage
or required deciet and manipulation for us to indulge in the hobby, we'd get
counseling real quick!  Our marriage is absolutely the FIRST priority - for
both of us.

Robin (my husband) is buying me a serger for our anniversary, and has been
saving up since April for the purchase, despite urgent temptations to dip
into the fund for things that seemed very pressing at the time.  The least I
can do is repay his kindness and consideration by consulting him before I
independently blow a wad of money on a hobby - and I expect (and get) the
same right to be consulted before he buys ham radio gear or  scuba stuff.

I think alot of wives assume falsely that their husbands are holding back
from them just because he may be the principal breadwinner.  Trust is a big
factor, and my trust has never been betrayed when it comes to money for the
things I enjoy.

Yours Cordially,
Suzie
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Wed, 30 Aug 1995 23:32:29 -0400
Subject: Re:Knee Lift and a convert

I bought my 1260 in part because of the knee lift and even without the
experience of a knee-driven machine found it took some coordination to get
going. Once I got it together though -- WOW!  And for machine quilting -- I
can't imagine going back.  Being able to "drive" the fabric with two hands
while working the needle with your foot and the pressure foot with your knee
is tremendous.  Lets you put full concentration on the pattern and when you
need to change direction or make some adjustment, you can basically use your
whole body to do it.  I think I do less tugging on the needle because I have
two hands on the quilt.

Now for a bit of news.  While I was on vacation last week, I lent my quilting
buddy Pat my Bernina as a bribe to get the rest of our raffle quilt quilted.
[I had done about 80% of it and the sashings remained to do.]  She had said
she hesitated to volunteer because her machine just didn't do as well, but
she hated that I was having to do it all.  No Problem! I said quickly -- I'm
going on vacation and wasn't planning on taking the Bernina, so you can
borrow it.

When I came back and got back to work, I emailed her that it wasn't til
Sunday nite I realized I had no machine.  She emailed back right away that I
wasn't going to get it back right away either -- she had about 2 more nites
of work on the quilt.  She also said "I had forgotten what it was like to sew
on a machine that didn't fight you every step of the way!" 

Yahoo!  She has to buy a new car first, but I guess I know what she'll be
getting next!  Do I get a  finder's fee?

Mary Beth
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Thu, 31 Aug 95 03:44:00 UTC
Subject: Re: Knee Lift

Ruth,
 Oh, I took to the knee lift right away. I think it's the greatest thing
since sliced bread. It's just that the old method for some reason on another
popped back into my head at first. I still do it occasionally when I'm
really into something I need to concentrate on, but less and less often now.
:)
 
                                Petchy
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Subject: Re: New Member and Knee Lift "Funny Haha"
Date: Wed, 30 Aug 95 20:52:06 PDT

Hi Carolyn and welcome to the group!!

You wrote;
>but I sure would love to have a "Needle Down" button on this 930...who would 
>have thought that I would ever have a use for that feature?????

Oh, I know just what you mean, my DH bought my first Bernina for me and I took
right off sewing with the left foot in order to use the kneef lift.  But after
12 years I finally got a 1530 and mostly because my model of the 930 did not
have the Needle Down option.  I just love it, maybe you need a new machine, 
tee, hee!!!

By the way, did any of you get your Great American Quilts 1996 from Oxmore
House and get a free sample of instant coffee in the box with it???  ;-/  
How weird!!!

I know, I should not be buying from them after all the problems your are all
having, but I have to have my annual fix of this great quilt book, and now I
have ten of them.

Jean P
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Date: Wed, 30 Aug 1995 23:12:29 -0600 (MDT)
Subject: foot for applying beads?

I'm getting a new foot for my birthday and thought I remembered reading
a post about a "pearl" foot or beading foot.  Any one have more information
that might help.  My daughter is picking the foot up out of town and bringing
it down to me so I hope I can tell her which one o   to ask for.

Thanks.
Nancy B
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Date: 31 Aug 95 08:41:31 EDT
Subject: General

Hi Everyone -
	I am a new Bernina owner and was extremely happy to find this group.  It
sounds like many of you are quilters (like me) and I hope to hear from some
clothes-sewers, too. (Sewers?Sewwers? whatever)  I do have a couple of general
questions, though.  From what I hear, you all received more than one class of
instruction when you purchased your machines.  I have the 1090 S by the way.  I
was told I get one lesson to learn the machine.  And I'm not scheduled until
9/23!!  Is this normal?? I bought it in Fairfield, CT.
	As for tough husbands:  my husband is the one who insisted I get the best
even though I went just to look!! "Buy it!!" he said. "Look at the price!" I
replied.  "So, make sure you use it and enjoy it".  What a guy.
	Now about this Bernina U.  What, where, when???? I'm in the next state
over so I'll gladly attend.
	And lastly, could someone give me the addresses of some sewing calalogs,
including Clotilde that everyone talks about.  I'd appreciate it.  
	I hope to keep up with this group - you all sound so nice!!

					Susan
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Date: Thu, 31 Aug 1995 10:18:09 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Question on 1630

I have probably missed seeing the answer to this question, but would 
really like to know:

        How do people like the directional sewing feature of their
        new 1630s?  Do you use it a lot and does it do nice stitching
        in the directions other than forward and backward?
     
Myra
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Subject: Did you Hug your Bernina today?
Date: Thu, 31 Aug 95 07:08:00 PDT

I don't usually post messages (just happy to browse), but I couldn't resist 
sending this message today.

Last evening I visited our "new" upscale mall (Short Hills, NJ).  I 
purposely went to see what styles were "in" so I could duplicate them with 
my new 1260.  We went into Nieman Marcus which was one of the new stores.  I 
couldn't believe the prices!  There was a VERY simple  quilted vest which 
was one of the few garmets worth approaching.  The price was $795.  It was 
then that I turned to my DH and said "I can't wait to go home and hug my 
Bernina!"  I think he will too.

Jamie
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Date: Thu, 31 Aug 1995 09:08:51 MST
Subject: RE: Generic Feet

Hi All...I did buy the adaptor and the generic roller foot....primarily
because I do not think that I will have a lot of use for this foor and
did not want to spend the big bucks that Bernina charges for theirs...(the
roller worked fine by the way)....my local shop said that regular use of
generic feet could invalidate my warantee if any damage was done to the
feed dogs...(warantee...think I got confused with guarantee....I honestly
do know how to spell it)...another person I talked to said that she had
purchased a generic even feed foot and it broke 3 times so that although
the foot was cheaper...in the long run she spent just as much as if she
had purchased the Bernina foot.  So, I guess if it was a foot I needed
for a one time deal or very limited use, I would use a generic foot...however,
if it's a foot that I know I will be using extensively, go with the Bernina.
Sandra
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Date: Thu, 31 Aug 95 15:06:00 UTC
Subject: Help: I have a problem

Hi all,
 
I wonder if there is anyone out there who knows how to do french knots by
machine.  If there is thanks in advance.   I have a 1230, if this helps.
 
Patches
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Date: Thu, 31 Aug 1995 08:53:15 -0700
Subject: Re: Generic Feet

You wrote: 
>Has anyone used generic feet on their Berninas?
>Thanks, Sarita

Sarita,

I purchased the "little foot" several years ago (before Bernina came 
out with one of their own).  It works just fine.  I wouldn't know how 
it would compare to the Bernina foot ,however, ..........

--Ruthann
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Subject: 930 Needle Down
Date: Thu, 31 Aug 1995 11:05:31 -0600 (CDT)    

On my 930, you can get the needle down by pressing the foot pedal with 
your heel.  You do have to do it each time, but it's a way of getting 
that needle where you want it.
Jane (who still sometimes forgets to set the needle down on her 1230)

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Date: Thu, 31 Aug 1995 12:59:12 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 8/30/95

My wonderfull husband bougth me a Bernina 1090 about 3 weeks ago and I can
tell  you it has been the best thing he has ever bougth me I LOVE IT ! any
Bernina 1090 owners out there?


Luponem
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Date: Thu, 31 Aug 1995 13:16:00 EDT
Subject: Bernina Digest 8/30/95

Re: Generic feet
Sarita,
I've used generic feet very successfully.  I purchased the low shank 
adaptor about a year ago and have used the generic 1/4 " foot and my 
old, old singer ruffler. Both worked wonderfully.
Happy sewing!
Doris
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Date: Thu, 31 Aug 1995 11:32:38 -0700
Subject: needles

        I could be mistaken, but, once in Sisters,OR at a class with 
Harriet, I thought she suggested that you clean out with a q-tip or the air 
when you change the bobbin.  
        I do forget on the needles, and I buy them by the dozen packs.
        My repair man said blowing on it sent in moisture, and the air 
packed things, but, whatever, I have q-tips in the jar, with the 
screwdriver, nail file, tweezers, pencils, seam measurer, and marking pens.
                Hugs, Andrea
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Date: Thu, 31 Aug 1995 14:43:16 -0400
Subject: You know you're a quilter when .

For a while there was a thread on quiltnet about how to finish the sentence
"You know you're a quilter when . . . "  I just discovered a new one " . . .
you can dial your Bernina dealer without having to look up the number!
Jean
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Subject: "Quilting" needles / "quilting" thread
Date: Thu, 31 Aug 95 14:53:00 EST

I have some confessions to make:

1) I use a "quilting" needle for all my piecing, too.

2) I use "quilting" thread for sewing if it's around and matches what I'm 
doing; I use any kind of thread for quilting, if the color is right.

I watch all the PBS shows. I know these are supposed to be bad, but nobody 
ever says why (except some hint about waxy coatings). My fabrics don't seem 
to be damaged. My thread doesn't snap or tangle. My stitches are balanced. 
PLEASE, somebody, tell me why it's wrong.

BTW, thanks for the inspiration. I'm going to dig out that old knee-lift 
lever and practice over the long weekend.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Thu, 31 Aug 1995 15:07:18 -0400
Subject: Re: Generic Feet

I have used some of the generic feet with the Bernina adaptor and they seem
to work fine, although I recently purchased a Bernina open toe applique foot
to replace my generic one, I think problably because I feel like if it costs
so much more, it must be better. Also it's kind of a pain to have to screw
the different feet on the adaptor (see how spoiled I am by the clip on?), but
in my opinion, Bernina feet are awfully expensive and if you're not going to
be using the foot a lot why pay the extra? Hope this helps. Sue M.
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Date: Thu, 31 Aug 1995 15:03:28 -0400
Subject: Re: Knee Lift

After reading all these raves about the knee life (me, too) I can't help but
wonder why Bernina let the patent expire (or however it happened) to let New
Home have a knee lift on their 9000? Does anyone know the story behind this?
Just curious - I don't think I'd have let anyone else get their hands on it!
Sue M.
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Date: Thu, 31 Aug 1995 16:42:52 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 8/30/95

I went to my dealer's today and played a while with the scanner.  While I was
there at least 6 people came in buying fabric, Bernina accessories, etc.  We
were all discussing what machines we had.  I think between the 6 of us we had
at least 20 machines.  
I compared it to power tools in my husbands workshop.  He doesn't use them
all of the time, but when he needs them, it is nice to have them!

Hugging my Bernina, now that school has started.... I have my afternoons free
to play all alone!!!!!!

Roni
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Date: Thu, 31 Aug 1995 21:49:49 +0100
Subject: Help on "Black Latch"

Dear All 
I have a friend who has a "black latch" bobbin case. She bought about 30 
years ago when she lived in Kenya and owned a 730.  To look at, it seems 
identical to her usual one except that the latch, (the part you hold on to 
when you insert or remove the bobbin case from the machine) is a dull black 
colour. She would like to know if if has a particular use.  I do hope 
someone out there can help.  
Thanks in advance,
Erica T
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Subject: Re: Bought (Splurged on?) a 1260
Date: Thu, 31 Aug 95 16:02:28 PDT

My 1530 also makes different noises when switching from one stitch to
another without sewing sometimes.  Since I could probably hear a dogs 
whistle it really irritates me at times when it is a terribly high pitched.
My first year check up will be soon and I intend to ask about this and hope
it does not have to be sent off somewhere for weeks to be repaired.

Maybe Harriet could give us some advise here is she's around???

-- 
Jean P
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Date: Sat, 2 Sep 1995 00:43:39 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina converts

Mary Beth's story about the borrowed Bernina struck a chord with me. me.  I
started quilting last summer on my old Kenmore, and everything was OK till I
tried to do my second quilt (a Fence Rail, full size).  I had so much trouble
with it!  First, my so-called quarter-inch seam allowance, plus my lousy
pressing,  DEVOURED quite a lot of my one-inch strips (hello out there, any
beginning quilters - sound familiar??) and caused me to resize from a
six-inch block to... five and a half inches (and even at that a lot of the
blocks didn't make the grade!).  Well, it finally got pieced, and then I
tried to quilt it along the zigzag steps of the pattern.  Uh-uh.  I tried
hard to find a walking foot to fit the Kenmore, but it had a high slant shank
or something, so I had no luck with that.  So finally I accepted my friend's
offer and borrowed her Bernina, and things just fell into place.  We
christened this quilt The Contrary Quilt, but I know now it just wanted
proper handling!  It really turned out well, by the way - to look at it, no
one would know what all went wrong during its creation.  
So I immediately fell in love with the Bernina, and now I have a 1630 of my
own and several more quilts!  Inspired by Bernina Club &my lessons at the
shop, I have even begun sewing garments: vests, dresses, duffle bags... and
now it seems so easy. I can't imagine doing any of this with a sewing machine
I had to swear at :)  -Ann 
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Thu, 31 Aug 1995 23:53:55 -0400
Subject: knee lift

I have been a 'nina owner for about 3 years.  I, too, kept trying to start
sewing with the knee lift.  Now, though, I am lost without it.  I do a lot of
chain piecing and lift the foot "just a tad" to put the next piece through.  

I don't try to lift while I am sewing because that will lower the feed dogs
and you will lose traction for the fabric.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Subject: Re:Earring Holder
Date: Thu, 31 Aug 95 22:42:17 PDT

Hi Cheryl;

I have not forgotten you.  I had been toying with the idea of possibly putting
this project into print.  But doubt that I will get around to it so here you
are.  Please forgive me if this is confusing, as it's hard to describe.  let me 
know if you need help.

I quilted a 24 inch block.  Then I took a piece of fabric about 42 in" wide and 
44 in" long and folded it in half the long way, inserting a piece of Thermolam 
Plus in the middle and stitched across one end, down the side and across the 
other end to close it, then stitched down the other long side.  I then stitched 
right across the middle of this long panel.   I then lined up this middle 
stitched line with a hand quilted line near the  bottom of the 24 in" quilted 
square and sewed through both pieces.  Hence, quilted square on top, one panel 
of the stuffed panel behind it, and then fold up the bottom half of the panel 
hanging down, making the third layer of the hanging.

I then made 8 tabs about 21 in" long and three in" high.  I folded in
about 1/2 in" on  the ends.  Folded and pressed down the top 1/4 in".
Folded up 3/4 in". and pressed, and folded down the top and pressed, leaving 
no raw edges.   "FOUR" on these I stitched closed and then sewed them onto the
panel in the middle that I would see when I dropped down the quilted front
panel.  These were evenly spaced and are used for jewelry pins.  One of these
strips I sewed on about a dozen buttons, as I have that many button covers.

For the "four" reaming strips, follow the same instructions, but before
sewing the folded edges together insert a piece of "plastic cross stitch
mesh" which has been cut lengthwise every 6th row, four times.  Insert 3 rows 
up between the fabric, leaving two rows hanging down to hang your earring on 
and put your post earring through, now stitch through the fabric strip and the
plastic, it works great.  <^_^>  Now, this plastic mesh is only about 13 3/4
inches long so you will have several inches left for pinning others things to.
So I started two strips with the mesh and ended two strips with the mesh and
sewed them on alternately to the back panel of the wallhanging.   I was lucky
enough to find light blue plastic mesh and my fabric was a dusty med. blue. 

NOW,  attach a sleeve to the top of this back panel and put a stainless steel
down in this sleeve to hang it onto two nails.  You must then sew about  1" 
sqs. of Velcro to the corners and middle of the back of the quilt and the 
center panel, then the back of the center panel and the front of the back panel.

Voila!! , all the earrings and pins and button covers are taken care of. 
I did not have enough room on my wall to include all the necklaces I have made 
to match these earrings though. :-(  They'll just have to stay in the drawer 
for now.
-- 
Jean P
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Date: Fri,  1 Sep 95 03:06:00 UTC
Subject: General

Susan,
 I got my lessons on one Saturday, but I think that for those who can go
during the weekdays, it's spread over a couple of classes. Mine was kind of
disappointing in that the teacher just sat with the manual and read it out
loud and had us go through the stuff that was pictured in the book. I'd
already done that by the time I got there, so I felt it was a wasted day.
But when I went for my serger lesson (again on a Saturday, and for about 6
hours), the teacher was fantastic and gave us extra sheets and lots of
helpful hints on using the serger. She was really nice, too. I've called her
at home a couple of times for followup and she couldn't have been more
pleasant. So... moral of story... I guess it all depends on how effective
the teacher is. My advice is to go through the manual page by page and do
the best you can on your own. Then when you show up for class you'll have
questions that aren't covered in the manual and get the answers right while
you have your machine there.
 
My .02, for what it's worth. :)
 
                                Petchy
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Fri,  1 Sep 95 09:53:00 UTC
Subject: You Know You're a Quilter when

Jean,
 
Boy am I in trouble, I have known my dealers phone # by heart for years.
 
Patches aka Mern
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Thu, 31 Aug 1995 19:54:18 -0500
Subject: Re: Knee Lift and a convert

>When I came back and got back to work, I emailed her that it wasn't til
>Sunday nite I realized I had no machine.  She emailed back right away that I
>wasn't going to get it back right away either -- she had about 2 more nites
>of work on the quilt.  She also said "I had forgotten what it was like to sew
>on a machine that didn't fight you every step of the way!" 
>
>Yahoo!  She has to buy a new car first, but I guess I know what she'll be
>getting next!  Do I get a  finder's fee?

Mary Beth - You just might!  My Bernina dealer here in San Antonio gives
gift certificates to customers who recommend other customers to the shop and
they subsequently buy something!  So if you have a favorite dealer, check it
out!  They just might do the same.

                                        Jacque in South Texas
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Date: Thu, 31 Aug 95 21:07:59 -0500
Subject: Bernina Lessons Online - Starting Tomorrow

Hi Everyone, 

While I haven't finished compiling the final listing of topics for Bernina 
Lessons on Line (the students are back, I've been working for the last 9 or 10 
straight at the "real" job), I want to get going on this project.  So, beginning 
tomorrow, we'll start our lessons with a discussion of foot #12.  Any questions, 
neat ideas, tips, techniques, what ever w/ foot #12 are welcome.  

So those who don't want to get involved w/ lessons online can skip these 
postings, I'm asking everyone who sends a message on this topic to be sure to 
put LOL in the title (LOL = Lessons On Line).  I'll collect up all of the 
postings and put them on to our home page on the web URL http://ttsw.com/BFC so 
everyone will be able to refer back to them.  (I'll try to get some kind of file 
to mail to those w/o web access, but I'm not making any promises at the moment.  
I agreed to teach a class this Fall.  I'm crazy.)

Okay, I'm going to go dig thru my notes on the #12 foot.  How does 2-3 weeks 
sound to cover foot #12?  I thought we could play it by ear to see if we need 
more/less time.  Hopefully over the next week things will slow down at work &I 
can get the other topics organized.

Can't wait to get started : )

Sue T

PS:  Please e-mail me at Sue@ttsw.com if you have any questions about LOL or 
have any other ideas, topics you'd like to cover, etc. 
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Fri, 1 Sep 95 07:35:43 EDT
Subject: Re:  Help on "Black Latch"

The black latch bobbin case is designed to be your "play" case.  The
idea is if you want to try using some of the wierder threads (or even
yarn) you have to adjust the tension of your bobbin case.  So you
use the back latch case whenever you are playing with tension, and
save the other as your regular case, with the tension set for normal sewing thread.  At least, that's my understanding!

--Cindy
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Date: Fri, 01 Sep 1995 08:24:29 -0400
Subject: Varia

Regarding the black latch bobbin case... 

It looks very similar to the regular one but the latch (black metal part) is
actually designed to leave a larger clearance for heavier threads and yarns.
I'm not sure you could use it for regular thread (I've heard conflicting
feedback on that).

Regarding generic feet...

Bernina makes and sells a low-shank adapter to enable us to use generic
feet. I wonder how they could void their own warranty based on the use of
non Bernina feet only.  I would not be too worried about wearing out the
feed dogs but I would be careful that the foot will allow clear passage for
the needle. However, there are a few safegards to look for...  Some feet may
not work properly on a nina, even with the use of the adaptor.  A few come
to mind


- make sure any foot or attachment does not get in the way of the needle
clamp screw (unless it relies on it for its motions)

- make sure the needle whole in the foot is wide enough (most will be) if
you want to use your widest zzag (or remember to restrict stitch width)

Some generic feet just don't work that well (sometimes not at all) on ninas:

- the old Singer zipper foot (with adjustable lateral slide) doesn't reach
all the way down to the feed dog on my 1230, so it's useless :(

- the clear open-toe embroidery foot (sold by Clotilde's) has too narrow a
groove underneath to accommodate the full width (of the whooping 5mm) on my
1230.  If I do use 5mm satin stitch, feeding stalls and the satin stitch
bunches up :(  (I recently got the Bernina clear embroidery foot for 1/2
price and it is nicer: the under side of the foot has the wide enough groove
and in addition, all undersurfaces are nicely rounded so the foot litterally
allows you to 'sail' in any direction without drag)

- I recently got the 'spring' free motion  embroidery foot (made mostly of
plastic) sold by most stores (not the big foot but the 'darning-like' foot).
While the foot basically works, the little metal finger that is picked up by
the needle clamp bar tends to escape on a full left swing of the needle when
it reaches bottom.  Once that happens, the needle clamp bar finds itself
ABOVE the finger and on the next trip down (now on the right side where the
thing can't hide) and  bends said finger.  After a few bend/strainghten
finger cycles, the thing breaks.  Meanwhile, when this happens, the foot is
no longer being picked up so bunchies are very likely 


Roller feet...
I was told by my dealer that the advantage of the Bernina roller foot is
that it has smooth rollers, which are less likely than the 'toothed' ones to
pick up loose threads and make a mess.  I dunno how important that is.  I do
have the nina roller foot and it does roll very smoothly (I tried a test
push on a table and the thing rolled away like a toy :)... gotta keep it
away from the kiddo now)



Noises (pitches) on computerized models:
could it have to do with engaging the lateral step motor?


Sylvain
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Date: Fri, 1 Sep 1995 07:32:43 -0600
Subject: Re: Foot for applying beads

>I'm getting a new foot for my birthday and thought I remembered reading
>a post about a "pearl" foot or beading foot.  Any one have more information
>that might help.  My daughter is picking the foot up out of town and bringing
>it down to me so I hope I can tell her which one o   to ask for.

In the booklet "Texture with Textiles" by Linda McGehee she shows beading
with the #12 foot.  I now have the book, the foot but have not yet
purchased the Cross-Locked beads she recommends.  I'm looking forward to
trying this technique in the Jacket Jazz course I'm signed up for this
fall.

Now if I could only finish the two quilts, patchwork vest, and alterations
I have lined up in my "studio" (aka "sewing room", aka "former guest
bedroom").

Happy sewing!

Judy
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Date: Fri, 1 Sep 1995 08:35:12 -0400
Subject: Re: Help: I have a problem

I learned how to do silk ribbon French knots by machine the other day.
 Thread your machine with invisible thread.  Take a few free motion stitches
to tack down the ribbon.  Then needle down and wrap the ribbon around the
needle the number of times you want (2-5) then do a couple of stitches
outside of the ribbon "knot" to secure.   Good luck!

Lisa
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Subject: Re: Help on "Black Latch" 
Date: Fri, 01 Sep 95 08:46:44 -0400

You are right, the black latch bobbin case is identical except for the
color of the latch.  The reason for having a black latch bobbin case
is that it is hard to get the bobbin tension exactly right, but
sometimes you do want to adjust the bobbin tension so you can put
unusual threads in the bobbin.  So you never touch the tension in the
regular bobbin that you use for everyday sewing and you get a black
latch bobbin case for when you want to do things that require changes
to the bobbin tension.  The color of the latch lets you tell which
bobbin is used for which purpose.

BTW, those of us who have 1630s have bad news and good news.  Bernina
does not make black latch bobbin cases for the 1630, but we can make
our own by getting a second regular 1630 bobbin case and putting a dab
of nail polish on it.  For some strange reason known only to Bernina,
a black latch case is much more expensive than a regular one, so
anybody who wants a black latch case might consider doing the same.

Debbie D
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Date: Fri, 1 Sep 1995 08:49:43 -0400
Subject: Bernina Club 

My local Bernina club (Philadelphia and Doylestown, PA) is having some really
great people this year and thought there might be people on this list who
would be interested in hearing some of talented women speak. If you want more
specific info on times/dates/cost/directions e-mail me personally and I'd be
happy to give you the information--

September-Alice Allen    she does great clothes, her work has been in lots of
                                                   magazines works on a
Bernina, will be teaching at the large
                                        quilt show her in Fort Washington
October-Natalia Margulis    a Russian lady fairly new to this country who
does excellent 
                                        machine embroidery and cutwork
November-Pat Rodgers   this is the same Pat Rodgers who is here on the list I
                                    do believe is that right Pat? Pat is
doing a workshop and                                             perhaps she
wouldpost more  info about her work here
March- Mary Lou Nall     the lady who wrote the Bernina feet books that
people have                                          been posting about over
the  last few weeks. She will be here                                     in
person and is also giving a workshop
May- Kindred Spirits   these women do what I would call folk art but in a
very delicate                                     way. There work is country
but not cutesy at all. I have seen
                                       dolls,fabic jewelry, and small quilts.
One of there books is                                           "
Gatherings."
Other months are filled by some talented local people. My e-mail address is
BRatkins@aol.com. I am not associated with the store in any way other than as
a happy customer and excited Bernina Club member. Hope a few people out there
will be able to join us to here some of the above talent.
Barbara A
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Date: Fri, 1 Sep 1995 08:55:12 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 8/31/95

Re:  Susan's question about Bernina classes ..

I picked up a 1260 in July, and the first classes that had openings were in
late September.  Don't know if this is normal, but that's what the dealer
here is doing.  They were, however, happy to show me basic stuff on the spot
and said to drop in any time between purchase and then ...


Re:  Slightly used 1080 for sale.

Many of you may remember my post about finding a 1260 at a price I could
live with.  So do I really need two Berninas?  Well, I'd like them, but it
seems a bit excessive.  So I have a 1080 (purchased November '93), lightly
used, and meticulously maintained (with all parts and manual ...) for sale.
Don't know what I should ask for it and would be willing to ship if anyone
in this digest were interested.

Re:  Margaret's confession about using a quilting needle for piecing ...

>1) I use a "quilting" needle for all my piecing, too.

>2) I use "quilting" thread for sewing if it's around and matches what I'm 
doing; I use any kind of thread for quilting, if the color is right.

1.  We (PineTree Quiltworks) sell a lot of Schmetz quilting needles ... and
many, many quilters seem to "love" them for piecing, too, saying that the
needles are very sharp and good for same.  Since people are getting good
results, I'd be curious, too as to why one "should not" piece with a
"Quilting" needle.

2.  Don't know if you're doing anything "wrong" re: thread ... but quilting
thread is "thicker" (usually 40 weight) than general sewing thread (50
weight) and may not be quite as suited to piecing and general sewing ... so
though you may get an OK immediate result without fabric damage, the
50-weight is more than sufficient for holding pieces together and, if
nothing else, a lot less expensive!

I watch all the PBS shows. I know these are supposed to be bad, but nobody 
ever says why (except some hint about waxy coatings). My fabrics don't seem 
to be damaged. My thread doesn't snap or tangle. My stitches are balanced. 
PLEASE, somebody, tell me why it's wrong.
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Date: Fri,  1 Sep 95 12:44:00 UTC
Subject: Re: Bought (Splurged on?) a 12

I think of those noises we hear when our machines are changing stitches are
probably like the ones we hear when our automatic transmissions change
gears. There are some things in the machine that need changing, and when we
select a new stitch, those things move to get ready for the new stitch. It's
never worried me as long as I don't hear klunks or crashes (like I did when
my lower looper on the serger broke). :) The Deco 500 makes some amazing
noises when it goes through its paces.
 
                                Petchy
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Date: Fri, 1 Sep 1995 08:53:34 -0500
Subject: stitch problem

I just bought a 1530 this summer (out of state).  I didn't get the free
lessons.  This may have been a big mistake because I  already need help and
I don't feel I can call the local dealer because she didn't get any of my
money. . I will probably buy them soon though.

Maybe someone here can help me in the meantime.  I made a couple of jumpers
and everthing worked fine.  I made several buttonholes and now the tension
isn't right.  The top thread isn't even like it's suppose to be.  I did
replace the needle and that didn't seem to help. I am feeling kind of
depressed because I bought a Bernina for their good stitch quality.

thanks, Sarita
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Date: Fri, 1 Sep 1995 10:03:40 -0500
Subject: Re: "Quilting" needles/"quilting" thread

     Margaret,
        I also use quilting needles for my hand piecing.  I feel I have =

     more control.  For my hand appliqu=E9, my stitches are smaller and l=
ess =

     noticeable.
     As for using quilting thread, I THINK one of the reasons people say =

     not to use it is you should try to use a thread that matches in both=
 =

     content and thickness, the material which you are using.  The fear i=
s =

     that by using a thread that is stronger than the material, the threa=
d =

     will wear down the material and actually cut it. So that in 100 year=
s, =

     your quilt will begin to rip at these seams.  This is just my =

     understanding of it (or perhaps misunderstanding).  Anyone else's =

     comments would be welcome if I am wrong.
     Sharon
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Date: Fri, 1 Sep 1995 09:18:19 -0500
Subject: Re: General

Susan,

I just happen to have my Clotilde catalog with me at work today. Shame on me :)
They can be reached at: 2 Sew Smart Way B8031
                        Stevens Point, WI 54481-8031
                        1-800-772-2891
I bet you can call their 1-800 and order a catalog.  Another good catalog is
Nancy's Notions which I don't have with me today but if no one else pipes up
then email me and I'll look it up for you.  Happy Sewing!

Lorrie
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Date: Fri, 01 Sep 1995 10:28:22 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Feet

   Forget who asked these questions because I deleted the messages, but
I'm looking at  the Bernina - Special accessories leaflet and there
doesn't seem to be a beading foot. However, you can get a generic one from
Clotilde or Nancy's Notions. The black latch foot is in the leaflet, and
it says "For use jwith thicker yarns (i.e. perle cord no. 8) in the
bobbin."
   My dealer gave me this leaflet with the purchase of my machine. Also
there is a new list of feet to fit the 1630 exclusively. I am amazed at
how many of you don't seem to be getting the good service I have gotten
from my dealer. I bought my machine from Stitches Unlimited in Northampton,
Mass., and they are great people to deal with. I have unlimited free lessons
with both the sewing machine and serger I bought from them, plus free
monthly special classes for the Bernina, and other workshops at very 
reasonable prices. They also have special discounts on feet and other items
in connection with the classes. In one of the classes there was instruction
on how to make French knots, and I'll look in my notes and describe the
method if I can find it. Forgot it already!
x
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Subject: machine features
Date: 01 Sep 95 09:42:40 -0700

Hi, I've been lurking on this list under false pretenses.  I am not yet
a Bernina owner.  I pass on interesting bits to a Bernina owner in my
quilt group.  I subscribed to this list to find out more about Berninas
to see if I wanted to get one when I upgrade my machine.  The kneelift
sounds very useful although I too learned to sew on an Elna which had a
knee bar to make it sew and my mother subsequent machines were placed in
cabinets with the foot pedal fasstened to the inside and a knee bar
attached.  The needle down feature seems essential, my current machine
does not have it and I really feel I need it when doing free-motion
quilting.  I would appretiate any and all comments on your favorite
essentials featyures on a machine for quilting and heirloom ssewing.
You all are Berninas best sales reps.  I joined a couple of other lists
to learn about their machines but those lists mostly seemed to exchange
stitch programs. By the way, my current machine is a 10 year old Elna
Carina, a mechanical machine with needle up only and you can't lower the
feed dogs, only cover them, both of which pose problems to me.
  Terri 
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Date: Fri,  1 Sep 95 14:36:00 UTC
Subject: Bernina Digest 8/31/95
 
Margaret-
 
  The quilting threads are not good for machine sewing because the applied
finish on the thread can damage the tension area of the machine.
 
Erica-
 
  "Black Latch" bobbin cases are identical to regular bobbin cases except for
the color of the latch.  That's so they look different and one knows which is
the case that gets its screw re-set.  Therefore it's cheaper to just buy a
second bobbin case and add a bit of nail polish or some such to mark it as
different.
 
                    Joyce
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Date: Fri, 1 Sep 1995 08:26:26 -0700
Subject: to Sarita -- generic feet

to Sarita -- generic feet

i have the low shank adaptor and a few generic feet -- the sequins and
ribbons that Clotilde sells and a buttonhole foot that i have had for years
and don't remember where i got.

i have a 930 and have no problem with the adapter and generic feet.  if
there is a bernina foot that does the same thing i would buy that regardless
of cost but for the few feet that you can only get generic it's great.  and
you only need one adaptor for all the feet.

hope that helps.

linda
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Date: Fri, 1 Sep 1995 09:10:34 -0700
Subject: stitch &craft supply in AZ???

Recently someone - maybe Rudy in the Valley of the Sun- posted info 
about a discount store for stitch and craft supplies.  i copied the 
address as 
Stitch &Craft Supply
5634 W. Meadowbrook
Phx, AZ 85031

I called Phoenix phone directory and could not find a number for such a 
store/biz.  Can anyone tell me the phone or fax number as i would 
really like to order their catalogue.
Thanks in advance,
Cynthia
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Date: Fri, 1 Sep 1995 09:52:54 -0700
Subject: Bernina feet vs. generic feet

        Hi all..... just thought I'd jump in with my two cents' worth
regarding feet.  I got my 1530 about two years ago and at first I tried a
couple of different generic feet because they were cheaper.  My luck wasn't
so great (especially with a pintucking foot) so I decided to "collect"
Bernina feet.  Every time I squirrel away a bit of extra cash I treat myself
to a new foot.  It'll take me a while to collect all of them, but for the
type of sewing that I do (mostly clothes with lots of topstitching and
details) I've found the Bernina feet to be more accurate and sturdy.
Plus....I have a couple of friends who just ask me what number of foot I
want for my birthday or Christmas!

Louise
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Date: Fri, 1 Sep 1995 10:12:34 -0700
Subject: Re: misc comments

  >I purchased the "little foot" several years ago (before Bernina   
  >came out with one of their own).  It works just fine.  I wouldn't  
  >know how it would compare to the Bernina foot ,however, ..........
  >--Ruthann

I had a generic Little Foot too, then bought the #37 foot last year - WOW, what 
a difference.  It sews so much better, doesn't jiggle, is better marked, easier 
to see.  Convinced me to stick with Bernina feet and avoid the generic feet.

  >On my 930, you can get the needle down by pressing the foot pedal 
  >with your heel.  You do have to do it each time, but it's a way of 
  >getting that needle where you want it.
  >Jane (who still sometimes forgets to set the needle down on her 1230)

The advantage of the constant needle down, rather than having to hit the foot 
pedal, is that you won't have your leg cramp on you.  When you're working on 
smaller pieces, constantly having to hit your heel on the foot pedal would make 
my shin muscles sore.  With the constant needle down, this isn't a pain I have 
to suffer.  It's kind of like cruise control on a car - a subtle thing that you 
certainly can live without, but makes long drives much pleasanter and easier.

  >After reading all these raves about the knee life (me, too) I can't help 
  >but wonder why Bernina let the patent expire (or however it happened) to 
  >let New Home have a knee lift on their 9000? Does anyone know the story 
  >behind this? Just curious - I don't think I'd have let anyone else get 
  >their hands on it! Sue M.

People don't "let" patents expire, patents are designed to expire.  In the 
old days (pre-Berne convention; the rules changed in June 1995), an inventor 
was granted a patent, which is a legalized monopoly, for 17 years.  The 
intent was to recover costs associated with that unique product/invention, 
and to make inventions pay off.  Other countries had slightly different rules 
and different ways of counting when the patent "started".  There are now 
international patent laws in effect, which the US is going to abide by, that 
changes the time period to 20 years for new patents, though the stopwatch to 
count down will start at a slightly different time, I believe (from the first 
filing, rather than from when the patent is issued a number by the patent 
office).

Presumably, the US or Swiss patent for the kneelift has expired, and that 
means other companies are now entitled to use the invention and make money 
off of it too.

  >I have a friend who has a "black latch" bobbin case. She bought about 30 
  >years ago when she lived in Kenya and owned a 730.  To look at, it seems 
  >identical to her usual one except that the latch, (the part you hold on 
  >to when you insert or remove the bobbin case from the machine) is a dull 
  >black colour. She would like to know if if has a particular use.  I do 
  >hope someone out there can help.  Thanks in advance, Erica Thomson

The black latch is supposedly tensioned a little differently than the silver 
latch (regular) bobbin.  I've seen its suggested use with machine embroidery, I 
think.  I have an extra bobbin case for those times when I do embroidery with 
special threads and want to play with the tension, but this extra one is just a 
regular bobbin that I've painted with a dab of red nail polish on the latch 
cover, to identify it.  The black latch ones will cost you quite a bit more than
a regular bobbin case.

By the way, no one responded a coupld of days ago:  does anyone out there change
their needles every 8 hours, or what's your method/schedule to determine when to
change them?  

--Pia
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Date: Fri, 1 Sep 1995 14:02:55 -0400
Subject: Bernina LOL

I looked up the #12 foot and I even have one! I bought it to do mock
trapunto. You use a double needle, high loft batting and a fairly simple
design. It seems to work pretty well, and is much easier than regular
trapunto. Sue M.
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Subject: Re: Help on "Black Latch"
Date: Fri, 1 Sep 95 11:05:59 PDT

Hi;

My understanding of this bobbin case it that the screw in longer, allowing
you to have a wider range of adjustment for heavier and thick threads.
Hope this helps.  :0}
-- 
Jean P
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Date: Fri, 1 Sep 1995 13:37:23 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Re: Bought (Splurged on?) a 1260

Thanks for the reply about the different pitches in sound for the 
different stitch buttons on the 1260.  When I go to the Bernina Store to 
pick up my back-ordered copy of the "Footsteps" binder (or whatever it's 
called), I shall ask them about this.  The copy should be in soon. 
Hopefully, different pitches are the norm.  I'll let everyone know what 
the dealer says.
Susan
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Date: Fri, 1 Sep 1995 17:56:11 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 8/31/95

SueT.  Lessons sound great.   I've already learned something.  Foot number
12, is that the bulky overlock foot?  I had to look it up in the advanced
guide.  I don't have it, but I would love to learn.

Sue in Ct.  Where in Ct are you?  I think you should get more than one
lesson, but maybe I'm wrong.  My dealer is always willing to give as many
lessons as you need, so I am not sure what procedure is.

Roni
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Date: Fri, 1 Sep 1995 18:18:19 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 8/31/95

Margaret wrote:

<<2) I use "quilting" thread for sewing if it's around and matches what I'm
 doing; I use any kind of thread for quilting, if the color is right.>>

I think the main reason for note using real quilting thread for piecing is
that if the thread is too strong (that is, stronger than the fabric), it will
wear the fabric at the seam line and eventually the fabric will break along
the seam line.  This is something that Harriet talks about re nylon threads
for machine quilting.  

I believe that quilting thread is more expensive than regular thread too and
given the amount of large white/black/grey spools I go thru, I can afford not
to over spend on thread.

I do use regular thread and rayon thread for machine quilting.  I only use
"quilting" thread when hand quilting. Then, it's a single strand going in and
out of the fabric, not at all what the machine does!

My advice -- no need to use quilting thread for piecing (not even hand
piecing!) and you risk having unrepairable tears in your fabric...

Mary Beth
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Date: Fri, 1 Sep 1995 18:51:39 -0400
Subject: Re: Tough Husbands

I have 4 machines.  My lastest purchase was a Deco 500.  I work a full time
job and occ part time.  I make very good money, pay my bills on time and if I
want to spent it on sewing machines and supplies I have that choice.  I don't
always tell my husband the cost only because he still lives in the 50's.
 Thinks he can get a good pair of shoes for ten dollars.  My husband spents
very little on himself but then he has very little interests unlike myself.
 Right now I am working on a pillow cover for my daughter using the sunflower
designs.  Its running why i am reading my mail.  
Very relaxin for me.
KitRN
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Date: Fri, 1 Sep 1995 17:56:04 -0500
Subject: Re: Help on "Black Latch"


>I have a friend who has a "black latch" bobbin case. She bought about 30 
>years ago when she lived in Kenya and owned a 730.  To look at, it seems 
>identical to her usual one except that the latch, (the part you hold on to 
>when you insert or remove the bobbin case from the machine) is a dull black 
>colour. She would like to know if if has a particular use.  I do hope 
>someone out there can help.  

Erica - I too have one of these bobbin cases.  Mine was bought to use with
elastic thread so I could adjust the tension accordingly and not mess up the
one I use with regular sewing thread.  I think that's the purpose of the
black-latch case:  to use for special and decorative threads and not have to
readjust the tension on the regular bobbin case.  I may be wrong--and if I
am, I'm sure someone will help out!

                        Jacque in South Texas
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Date: Fri, 1 Sep 1995 17:21:21 -0700
Subject: how often to service your Bernina?

How often should you service your Bernina?

I oil and dust out my machine frequently and use it quite often.

I have an 1130 if that matters.

TIA,
Lisa E
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Date: Fri, 1 Sep 95 18:21 PDT
Subject: San Francisco

My family is taking a cruise that leaves from San Francisco.  We will be
flying into the airport and then they will transport us to the ship.  Are
there any quilt/fabric stores a short taxi ride away from the cruise ship
dock?  I checked the book I have which lists shops and it only has one in
San Fran., and it sells quilts.  I need a fabric fix.  Any recommendations?
Thanks for the help.

Isabel
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Date: Sat, 2 Sep 1995 10:30:26 -0400
Subject: Re: LOL

Any way to just get the LOL's?  That's what would really interest me, more
than the list topics.  I've been on the list from the start, and most of the
topics have come up many times, so I'm not getting much new from it, but
would really like the Lessons On Line.

LOL Foot #12
I've used the #12 to put on cording.  Use a stitch somewhat away from the
cord to make the cording, then come in a little to put it on the one side of
what you are puting piping on, then come in a little more to finally sew all
pieces together.  Sews almost automatically, and you don't see your first two
sets of stitches in the final piped seam.

Also have used it to put on thick fancy threads on the top.  I put the thread
through the cording area and then zig/zag over it.  The #12 helps the thread
you are puting on top to stay within the zig/zag track.  You can make fancy
decoration by using the decorative stitches while doing this too.  Also use
invisible thread if you just want to see the decorative thread, but you can
get interesting effects by using contrasting thread and fancy stitches too.

Barb M
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Date: Sat, 2 Sep 1995 13:38:52 -0500
Subject: Re: misc comments

By the way, no one responded a coupld of days ago:  does anyone out there change
their needles every 8 hours, or what's your method/schedule to determine when to
change them? 

I change my needle every project.  I guess if it is a really long project I
might change it in the middle.

Lorrie
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Date: Sat,  2 Sep 95 18:24:00 UTC
Subject: Bernina Designer

I have solved the mystery of the extra horizontal straight stitches appearing
in my designs.  I was using a 40 mm x 40 mm design size, which is close to the
critical pattern size of 40 mm x 60 mm.  In order for the machine to compensate
for the larger pattern size, it has a tendency to add stitches where it moves
across large distances.  I reduced the pattern to the default size of 30 mm x
30 mm, and it worked perfectly.
 
Wendy
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Date: Sat,  2 Sep 95 20:27:00 UTC
Subject: Re: misc comments

Pia,
 
Wow, thanks for the info on patents.  I to had wondered about that.
 
I change my needle on the average of every 8 hours.  I can always feel some
burrs after that time.  I also oil the bobbin case on that average length of
time.  Sorry, I thought I had responded to your question.
 
Patches
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Date: Sat,  2 Sep 95 20:26:00 UTC
Subject: Machine features

Terri,
 
You wouldn't happen to know the pfaff e-mail address would you.  I also have
a pfaff and would love to be on that list as well.
 
Thanks,
 
Patches
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Date: Sat,  2 Sep 95 20:27:00 UTC
Subject: stitch &craft supply in AZ??

Cynthia,
 
Stitch n Crafts fax # 1-800-279-1995
         and 602-846-0300.
 
Patches
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Date: Sat,  2 Sep 95 20:26:00 UTC
Subject: Feet

Barbara,
 
I to have always recv'd great service from my dealer.  Never had any
problems.  Why just yesterday I was up there to get my beethoven cleaned and
oiled and was amazed how quiet it once again sounds.  A lady came into look
at a school machine, it was a singer, and I ended up at the back of the
store, the thing was so noisy.  gads, who would want one of those things, I
could never look back now that I have a bernina.
 
I will wait for your response on the french knots.  Thanks so much.
 
Patches
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Date: Sat,  2 Sep 95 20:45:00 UTC
Subject: Bernina LOL

I have that foot to  the #12.  There are going to be very few that you all
will find I don't have.  Except the 1630.  I won't be buying that one since
I would have to replace all that stuff.
 
Anyhow,  I have never used it and hope you can come up with other
suggestions as to how to use it.  All will be welcome.
 
Patches
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Date: Sat,  2 Sep 95 20:45:00 UTC
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 8/31/95

To answer the quilting thread suggestion.  I can't imagine using it for
piecing, yuck.
 
And when I used it for machine quilting, why I wouldn't want my worst enemy
to have it.  It looked so awful to such a beautiful wallhanging that I am
going to take it out.  Thats how I feel about quilting thread on the machine.
 
Patches
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Date: Sat,  2 Sep 95 20:26:00 UTC
Subject: Re: Help, I have a problem

Lisa,
 
Thanks, I will give this a try, sounds better than the method I was doing
which didn't look like a knot at all.  It is for an applique quilt, so I
really appreciate a response, thanks, I really wasn't expecting one.  Your
so nice to tell us.
 
Thanks,
 
Patches
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Date: Sat,  2 Sep 95 20:45:00 UTC
Subject: Re: Help on "Black Latch"

Jean,
 
Harriet,  are you laughing.  She loves to tell people the story about how
the bobbin case screw is not extra long, so I am leaving it up to her to
tell you.
 
Patches
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Date: Sat, 2 Sep 1995 18:07:03 -0400
Subject: Re: Knee lifts

Hello all,

I have decided I want a 1260..Big surprise right.  I is great reading all the
tidbits from you who already own yours.  

I can tell I'll have to get used to the knee lift.  I love the idea but like
many of you leaned to sew on moms 1957 Elna.  Guess what.  It has a knee
pedal to operate the motor.

Local quilt shop has a Bernina sale coming up in October.  I can hardly wait
for the forthcoming details.

Anyhow Its nice to know all of you so I'm delurking (hmmm kind of like
de-cloaking for trekies) to tell you so.

Pam
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Date: Sat, 2 Sep 1995 00:20:09 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 8/30/95

Yes, I just received a 1090 from my DH too!!!  Best gift he's ever given
me!!!  Been doing some practicing on my own, but can't wait to take the
lessons from the dealer :)

Have to admit, though, having a tough time adjusting to that darn knee-lift.
 Guess I just need to spend lots and lots more time using it!
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Date: Sat,  2 Sep 95 22:34:00 UTC
Subject: Bernina Digest 8/31/95

Patches,
    This is what I remember from several years ago when I went to take the
advanced (for money) Bernina classes.  I remember...that we put heavier
thread like one does Battenburg lace with in the bobbin, by passed the
tension, marked on the back (maybe the front then the back or maybe with the
blue pen which would show through), then sewed on the back with the 0 stitch
length so the knot formed on the bottom which is the right side of the cloth
or item.  I have a vague suspicion a hoop may have been used to hold the
fabric tightly.  As I said, this was "years back" and whatever we did
worked.
   Anyone else want to correct my errors? (BG)
 
     Nikki
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Date: Sat, 2 Sep 1995 19:55:00 -0400
Subject: Re: Why to use the knee list

>Also, if you are piecing something like log cabins, where you are adding
>small blocks to a longer strip, you can really go fast. First, put the strip
>on the bottom. Then put the block you are adding on top. Set the machine for
>needle down. Sew to the end of the block and stop as soon as your needle is
>off the block. Raise the foot, slip the next block in against the needle and
>sew to the end of the block.....

Question:  If you were making every block different, mixing logs so that no
two blocks were the same, etc., would you still put the single log strip on
the bottom?  I have always put it on top, but then my blocks never turn out
quite true to size either.....I don't think I ever considered putting the
strip anywhere except on the top of the forming block....or does it really
make any difference?

Thanks for your imput....and good luck in class!

Sew Long,
Liz T
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Date: 02 Sep 95 20:48:55 EDT
Subject: Stitch Problem

Hi Sarita,
I bought a 1080 recently and had the same problem of being too far away for the
lessons. I called Bernina and they told me that if you are 100 miles away from
the dealer you bought at that dealer can send your local dealer some kind of
certificate so you can take the guide lessons there. It didn't help me, I'm only
60 miles away (not around the corner though) but it may help you. 
Good luck,

Joanie
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Date: Sun,  3 Sep 95 02:43:00 UTC
Subject: Help

Hi,
 I need some help. I'd like to sew some 1/8" ribbon on the bottom tier of a
fiesta skirt for my daughter. Does anyone have any ideas on how to sew it on
and not have it plastered with thread? :) I have a 1530. Thanks!
 
                                Petchy
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Date: Sat, 2 Sep 1995 19:51:26 -0700
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 8/30/95

Hi - Sat down at the 830 I just bought, and after the first potholder, I 
was hooked on the left foot gas, and right knee lift.  I love it.  So do 
stick with it.  I also started years ago with a knee speed control.  
        It sewed through 3 layers of bat, and one of top, and one of silver 
heat material.  Maybe more, as I turned the potholder, inside out, to close 
the bottom seam, and stitch around whole thing once.  It was so smooth.  If 
only it had the needle down, but, it does not.  
                        Hugs, Andrea 
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Date: Sat,  2 Sep 95 02:40:00 UTC
Subject: Help on "Black Latch"

Erica,
 
There is no difference except that it has a black latch.  It is far cheaper
to purchase a regular one and use it to adjust the tensions for the
different weight threads than to buy the black latch.  You can mark the
second case with fingernail polish to tell them apart, or you can do what I
did, and store it in a little pouch just for itself.
 
Patches
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Date: Fri, 1 Sep 1995 20:08:18 -0700
Subject: Re: Help on "Black Latch"

>I have a friend who has a "black latch" bobbin case. She would like to
>know if if has a particular use.  I do hope
>someone out there can help.

The black latch bobbin case is great! It has a longer tension adjustment
screw than a regular bobbin case. Because it looks different than a regular
bobbin case, you can endlessly play around with the bobbin tension and
still leave your everyday sewing bobbin case intact.

You can have a lot of fun with decorative thread, such as ribbon floss
which you hand wind onto the bobbin with ordinary thread up top.

Hope this helps you,
Lynn

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