Bernina Fan Club Archives
May 95
Date: Mon, 1 May 1995 08:04:24 -0400
Subject: AQS show
I cornered the Bernina rep that covers our region at the AQS quilt show this
weekend and badgered her for a while about some of the things we have been
bandying about on the net. She works directly for Bernina in Aurora.
Here is my report.
1. Mac software for the 1630. She has a mac, she agrees we should have an
interface. But it looks like this will not happen as they haven't sold enough
Windows interfaces. I asked about Bernina supplying a third party info to
produce it, she said they don't work that way.
2. A bunch of feet for the 1630 are in the planning stages, she didn't say
what. She says the two men who design feet would be annoyed if she set up our
expectations too much.
3. If you have a dealer who is not treating you well, contact Bernina and
complain. They will help you switch dealers if you can't get satisfaction
from your dealer.
4. The walking foot for the 1630 does not have the same bumpy thing on the
bottom that Harriet recommends we remove from the earlier walking feet. So
less modification is necessary. I bought a walking foot at the show, as well
as a few other feet...
5. A new serger is coming out soon. Top of the line, about $1800. Or
something, I didn't pay much attention, they didn't have one at the show so I
don't have details.
That's it.
RobbiE
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Date: Mon, 1 May 1995 08:30:57 -0400
Subject: Needle Positions on 1230
At my last Bernina Club meeting I learned a great method for adjusting the
needle position to 50 different positions. You engage the long stitch and the
zigzag stitch then by adjusting the stitch width you can sew anywhere in the
opening in the foot. This is because the long stitch only sews every other
stitch, so doesn't zig. I haven't tried it yet, but it sound like a good
idea. Sue M.
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Date: Mon, 1 May 1995 08:30:52 -0400
Subject: Re: Plexiglass platform
I purchased my platform from Nancy's Notions when she offered her 20%
discount, but I think the regular price is $80 - so if Lynn Graves price is
only $50 that's the place to go. I think it's also available from Clotilde.
You don't use it with the Bernina platform, but the surface area is so much
larger - I was considering buying one of the tables that the end lifts up to
fit around the machine and I think the area is the same. I highly recommend
the plexiglass platform. Sue M.
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Date: Sun, 30 Apr 1995 12:01:35 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: New Sergers
I stopped in yesterday to see the new Sergers at my Bernina dealer. It
was not a good day to visit because the dealer/instructor was busy being
videotaped and her husband was otherwise occupied. I saw only the
four-thread floor model. The new models will not be available until June.
The husband, who does the repairs and adjustments for the dealership, made
the comment that the new machines are hard to keep in adjustment. I didn't
find out anything about price. I noticed that the new model had a very
intricate presser foor, different from anything I had seen before. His
comment about frequent adjustments scares me off of mail-order buying.
Also, I didn't get any information about price. Does anyone have any
knowledge of these new models? Are they too new and untried to consider
for purchase? And what about mail ordering or buying away from the home
area? My credit card will probably be burning a hole in my wallet.
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Date: Mon, 01 May 1995 18:45:29 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: AQS Show
> 3. If you have a dealer who is not treating you well, contact Bernina and
> complain. They will help you switch dealers if you can't get satisfaction
> from your dealer.
Robbie: Unfortunately, I tried to complain to Bernina...they said they
couldn't give me another dealer name unless I came up with another zipcode.
They apparently list them by zipcode. I tried giving them cities, towns, and
even states I am close to, but she kept saying she doesn't list them like
that...the computer will only take zipcodes.
Robin
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Date: Tue, 2 May 1995 07:50:27 -0400
Subject: Re: AQS Show
So go to the post office and look up the zip codes......Seems like a simple
enough thing to do to get a better dealer.........
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Date: Tue, 2 May 1995 08:18:46 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 4/28/95
HI!
Bernina did have the self-winding bobbin and if I remember correctly
it was on th 1030 and 1130. There was a problem with the decorator
threads, regular sewing thread was okey. A self-winding bobbin winds the
thread tightly, too tight for monofilament (a quilter's choice) and some
of the metalics. When sewing the material would pucker because the
thread would regain the normal tension. This is a common feature with
all self-winding machines. Since the advent of decorator threads, the
slow winding of bobbins is desirable.
Jacque
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Date: Tue, 02 May 95 08:45:01 EDT
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/1/95
Well, the quilt is done and delivered to the bride, my 1130 has been in for
its checkup, cleaning and oiling and is back and the squeek is gone. And
the walking foot is ready to send to Harriet for modification. .......now
where did I put the address. I know I saved it......but where! Can someone
please relay it to me. I promise I will put it in my rolodex this time.
Thanks for all your help. I do appreciate this line.
Phyllis D
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Date: Tue, 2 May 1995 09:12:25 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/1/95
I think *another complaint is in order, this time to the President,
Director, or whatever, for the USA! There's *NO* excuse for a clumsy,
inefficient system that's designed for the convenience of the clerks
using it, when that system is *supposed to serve customers... and those
customers DO have alternatives, like Pfaff, and Elna, and...
Honest, folks, I don't know how many of y'all ever use a DBase program,
but for Bernina to make up town, state, region lists of _their own_
dealers (or such lists for Bernina owners, for that matter), it's as
simple as a couple of commands to their DBase program. There's nothing
mysterious, difficult, or time-consuming about it; it'd take minutes.
The days are long gone when anybody seriously believes that computers
*don't* do just what you tell 'em too. ;^)
Elaine J
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Date: Tue, 2 May 95 09:18:07 CDT
Subject: Re: AQS Show
I'm really disappointed to hear that Bernina isn't very responsive.
After spending big $$ on a machine, you should not be expected
to go to the post office to look up zipcodes in order to get a
decent dealer! I'm happy to report that I've been very
satisfied with my local dealer so haven't been forced do deal
with the national office - it sounds like I might be less
satisfied at that level.
Ruth
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Date: Tue, 2 May 1995 10:23:59 -0400
Subject: Nancy's notions
Does anyone here have the address for Nancy's notions? I would like to get
on the mailing list for a catalog. Thanks for any help.
Carole S
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Date: Tue, 2 May 1995 10:32:14 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: AQS Show
>
> Robbie: Unfortunately, I tried to complain to Bernina...they said they
> couldn't give me another dealer name unless I came up with another zipcode.
> They apparently list them by zipcode. I tried giving them cities, towns, and
> even states I am close to, but she kept saying she doesn't list them like
> that...the computer will only take zipcodes.
>
> Robin
>
You could try the Phone CD-Rom data base at you local library. A friend
and I used it to plot fabric shops along our way to Mary Jo's in Gastonia
a couple of weeks ago and found it very helpful. It's indexed by key
word and location so Bernina and cities should turn up any available.
===========================================================================
Subject: AQS Show
Date: Tue, 2 May 1995 08:06:50 -0700 (PDT)
> Here is my report.
>
Wow. Bernina sounds like it could use some "quality training."
That's all the rage right now in industry, but one aspect has to
do with responding to the customer and meeting the customer's needs.
> 1. Mac software for the 1630. She has a mac, she agrees we should have an
> interface. But it looks like this will not happen as they haven't sold enough
> Windows interfaces. I asked about Bernina supplying a third party info to
> produce it, she said they don't work that way.
IMHO, I do think that Bernina should offer the software for the Mac.
How unfortunate that the rep didn't tell you that it was in develpment.
As far as we know, they aren't planning on ever providing this service.
They are not meeting their customer's needs and may well loose customers
because of it.
>
> 2. A bunch of feet for the 1630 are in the planning stages, she didn't say
> what. She says the two men who design feet would be annoyed if she set up our
> expectations too much.
It is more important that these designers be happy than the customers
be happy? Terrible response. Is that really how bernina management
feels? They need to remember that the customer is the priority.
>
> 3. If you have a dealer who is not treating you well, contact Bernina and
> complain. They will help you switch dealers if you can't get satisfaction
> from your dealer.
Well, it sounded nice. I'm sorry that one of you is having trouble.
Another option for zip codes is the phone book. There is a page in
mine that shows the local zip codes.
I was surprised at her responses to those first two questions.
She is not presenting Bernina as a customer oreinted company.
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 2 May 1995 12:54:24 -0400
Subject: Re: Machine Quilting Needles
Hi all - hopefully this is not a month late, and totaly mundane!
I have been on the road nonstop for the past 6 weeks, and again off to New
Zealand on Friday. IM TIRED!!
As to the needle question.
Hold a sewing machine needle and examine it. The needle is flat on one side
of the shank, and has a long groove on the opposite side. Run your fingernail
down the long thread groove. This groove allows the thread to be protected
within the needle while penetrating the materisl. The othr side will hold
the thread as it goes through the material. The thread slides through the
grooved side and the eye, and because it is pinched from behind, it creates a
loop behind the needle as the needle rises. This loop and the scarf - the
hollowed out area on the back of the needle - allow the hook point of the
shuttle to pass between the thread and the needle, locking the stitch.
The new needles are being made to accomodate the special threads.
The new quilting needle has been slenderized to sew though the multiple
layers of seam allowances that we create while piecing. It is a
semi-ballpoint, but much more slender than a regular universal needle.
The embroidery needle is a combination of the stretch and the topstitching
needle. The thread groove is deeper to protect fragile threads like rayon and
metallic, and the eye is longer so that the thread has more room to pass
through.
The Metalfil needle is especially for metallic threads. I believe that there
is a special finish on the needle to stop static that is such a problem for
metallic threads.
Hope this little lesson in needles helps some of the confusion. There is
quite a bit of this type of information in my books, especially Mastering
Machine Applique.
Harriet
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Date: Tue, 2 May 1995 12:54:33 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 3/19/95
Yes, all walking feet can be modified! We have had nothing but rave reviews
about how well it works. You might want ot consider it.
Harriet
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Date: Tue, 02 May 1995 18:24:16 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: AQS Show
> So go to the post office and look up the zip codes......Seems like a
simple
> enough thing to do to get a better dealer.........
First, I did...I had a zipcode book at work, so I started listing zips for
them. They kept giving me the same dealer. They have three shops, and pretty
much cover the tri-stae area here.
Second, I did one better. I bought my machine in Lancaster at the show last
month. WOnderful people. 4.5 hour drive for service, but great to deal with.
I am happy with my new machine (1260) and got it for 900 less than the SALE
price my dealer was offering it for!
Third, would you know if there is a better manual available than the one
that comes with it? (G) I tried a couple things and the manual said to use
1 foot, the photo showed another foot, and the machine display indicated a
totally different foot....
I am looking for a good reference book maybe describing in a little better
detail HOW to use the feet, etc.
Thanks!
Robin
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Date: Tue, 2 May 1995 19:16:11 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 4/28/95
What is the best bernina to buy if you are a quilter and make some draperies,
no clothes I wnat to embrodiery and try machine quilting. I also want to
needle lift with your knee. Have any suggestions. Thanks
===========================================================================
Subject: Re: Nancy's Notions
Date: Tue, 2 May 1995 21:16:45 +22305931 (CDT)
The address for Nancy's Notions, Ltd. is
333 Beichl Ave.
P.O. Box 683
Beaver Dam, WI 53916-0683
Phone number is 1-800-833-0690
Hope this helps
Karen
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Date: Tue, 2 May 1995 22:26:08 -0400
Subject: Re: Walking Foot Modifiction
I remember reading "something" about having someone modify the walking foot
so things do not easily get caught. I have a 1230. Can my walking foot be
modified? Where do I go for such a thing?
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Date: Tue, 02 May 1995 22:31:15 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: AQS Show
I didn't mean to imply that the operator/clerk wasn't nice...she was very
helpful and understamding of my desire to find the next closest
dealer...just claimed she was unable to help me given the computer she had.
Since I work a little with computers, I found that a little hard to believe
that they were so outdated as to be unable to help, but she did try!
Bobbin
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Date: Tue, 2 May 1995 22:56:54 -0400
Subject: Re: Nancy's Notions
Give them a call at 1-800-833-0690 and ask for a catalog.
Will
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Date: Tue, 2 May 1995 23:32:26 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/1/95
Why are you having your walking foot motified?
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Date: Wed, 3 May 1995 00:17:39 -0400
Subject: Invisible machine applique
Perhaps I'm expecting too much from this method, but can anyone give me some
hints re machine settings for this? I'm using about 3/4 for stitch width, a
hair under 2 for length and (ratz -- can't see the machine) is it L and L
reversed?
My biggest problem is the bobbin thread keeps showing as it get pulled up.
This doesn't seem right. Does it at 6 and I've tried going down to 3
1/2....
Any suggestions are welcome. Thanks
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Date: Tue, 02 May 1995 22:40:07 pdt
Subject: Re: Nancy's Notions
Hi, Carole:
Here's the address for Nancy's Notions
333 Biechl Ave.
Beaver Dam WI 53916-0683
or Phone 1-800-833-0690
There is some great stuff in the catalogue! Diane T
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 02 May 1995 23:01:17 pdt
Subject: Walking Foot Modification
Hi, Phyllis:
Here is Harriet's address:
Harriet's Treadle Arts
6390 West 44th Avenue
Wheat Ridge CO 80033
phone (303) 424-2742
You and Harriet have convinced my to get my walking foot improved too!
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 3 May 1995 08:38:19 -0400
Subject: Re: Walking foot modifications
Send your walking foot and $12 to
Harriet's Treadle Arts
6390 West 44th Avenue
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
(303) 424-2742
This is Harriet Hargrave's shop and her mechanic, Kurt, will customize your
foot for you. I just got mine back and the difference is mind boggling. What
a good investment.
Kathy
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Date: Wed, 3 May 95 08:04:33 -0600
Subject: Re: Invisible machine applique
Mary Beth,
If you don't have a 1630, then thread your bobbin thread thru the eye
in the bobbin case. That should solve your problem of the bobbin
thread showing on the top.
If you have a 1630 (which doesn't have that feature anymore, darn
it!), then you need to loosen your top tension. I've had to loosen
mine to 1.5 before. Seemed odd, but it worked.
Hope this is helpful. Good luck!!
Kari
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Subject: Re: AQS Show
Date: Wed, 3 May 1995 08:21:39 -0700 (PDT)
Bernina wrote:
> I didn't mean to imply that the operator/clerk wasn't nice...
But being nice isn't going to keep us as Bernina customers. That
was my point. Certainly being nasty would drive us away, but not
meeting our needs and telling us that they have no plans to do
something that a customer very clearly wants will drive away
customers, too.
> she was very
> helpful and understamding of my desire to find the next closest
> dealer...just claimed she was unable to help me given the computer she had.
> Since I work a little with computers, I found that a little hard to believe
> that they were so outdated as to be unable to help, but she did try!
Since the architecture of the mac and pc is do different, I am not
surprised that they are only supporting one platform. But when they
tell us that they have no intention of supporting the mac, they
are telling those of us who have macs that they don't really want
us as custumers.
I'm not so sure that she did try. I have been one of those who
develop product. I have never worked for a company that put my
comfort zone above the happiness and satisfaction of a customer.
Her response was, IMHO, a cop out. Bernina should be agile
enough to try to meet all our needs. She bombed on two.
The reason I bring this up is that I am concerned with Bernina's
ability to meet my needs in the future. If they are not going
to put my (aka the customer's) desires first, then I would much
rather do business in the future with a company that will.
This is important to know before I shell out a couple of thousand
of dollars for a nifty, computer-driven machine.
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 3 May 1995 13:48:00 -0400
Subject: Re: Invisible machine applique
Mary Beth:
Are you threading the eye of the bobbin case? I do when I machine quilt. It
"helps" to keep the bobbin thread on the back where it belongs!
Debby
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Date: Wed, 3 May 1995 13:49:37 -0400
Subject: Re: Walking Foot Modification
LCJ and Phyllis:
You wrote; "I remember reading "something" about having someone modify the
walking foot
so things do not easily get caught. I have a 1230. Can my walking foot be
modified? Where do I go for such a thing?"
Harriet recommeds modifying the walking foot so it does not hang up and so
you can see where you are stitching. She said that Kurt from her store will
do it for you. I'm not sure about the 1230 walking foot.
But here is her address and telephone for you to find out.
Harriet's Treadle Arts
6390 West 44th Avenue
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
(303) 424-2742
"Kurt modifies the foot so that it no longer hangs up and opens the toes
so
that we can see. $12.00 he will return it, ppd and insured within 2 days."
From Debby
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Date: Wed, 3 May 1995 15:45:51 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/2/95
Boy this is an interesting group.
The more I hear about how Bernina does business the more I am really becoming
disappointed with them. I love my dearler they are fantastic, but their
hands are tied with a lot of issues, I don't think Bernina does a good job of
supporting their dealers. They should be taking good care of their
dealers...
I still love Bernina machines, probably always will.
Roni
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Date: Wed, 3 May 1995 16:58:40 -0400
Subject: Re: Invisible machine applique
Hi-
Which machine are you using? I've had GREAT luck with invisible machine
applique. I have a 1630 - if this is what you have, let me know and I'll
give you the settings.
Take care,
Jennifer
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Date: Wed, 3 May 1995 19:22:40 -0400
Subject: Re: Walking Foot Modification
I posted this modification procedure a few weeks ago. My mechanic does the
modification, and it certainly makes the foot a true 'quilting' foot.
For more information, e-mail me, or send a check for $12.00 to
Harriet's Treadle Arts
6390 W. 44th Avenue
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
(303) 424-2742
Harriet H
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Date: Wed, 3 May 1995 19:23:51 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/1/95
I posted several weeks ago that many walking feet hang up on the bulky seams
when ditch and grid quilting. This is caused by the walking feet's feeders
getting high centered on top of the lump, and the foot can't move. If the
little piece of plastic in the center of the foot's feeders is removed - not
the long ones, just the little center on, it creates a valley for the fabric
to pass through, and not get hung up.
We also remove the metal bar that lies in front of the needle, making vision
a problem. This gives you an open toe walking foot. If you have any of these
problems, the modification will help you.
Harriet H
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Date: Wed, 3 May 1995 20:16:27 -0400
Subject: Re: AQS Show
Will probably get in trouble for this, but if you think the customer has
trouble with Bernina, you should be a dealer! We get the run around just like
all of you. There are many excellent dealers out there, but just as many, if
not more, that don't have a clue how to take care of their customer. The sad
part is that we are not allowed - by our contract - to sell to advertize
outside our area. I get into areas where there is no dealer for 100 miles or
more, and women who really want a machine, but I can do nothing about it. But
we are constantly getting beat on about numbers! Doesn't make sense.
The reason I am writing this is that I am doing a lecture presentation at
Bernina University this summer. I have chosen to speak to dealers on how to
work with and satisify quilters, before, during and after the sale. I would
love it if any one out there, not just quilters, would e-mail me any of your
real concerns about Bernina, the dealers, the products, accessories, etc. Any
input I get, I will pass on. This may get some dealers to thinking. Thanks to
anyone who will take the time!!
Harriet H
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Date: Wed, 3 May 1995 19:23:43 -0400
Subject: Re: Invisible machine applique
Mary Beth - without knowing what machine you are using, it is hard to say
exactly what to do, but here is what I teach in my classes.
Set the width on 3/4, the length on 1 or less. I like the stitches to be 1/8"
apart for stability and the width to be 1-2 threads wide. Very hard to see,
but deep enough to not pull out.
Use only 60weight/2 ply fine embroidery, or bobbin fill ( also called SewBob)
in the bobbin, and thread the eye in the finger of the bobbin case. Loosen
the top tension to 4 or 3, but be sure that there are no little nylon bubbles
on the back that are scratchy. That means that your top tension is too loose.
The back should show a tight stitch, the top nothing.
Use a size 60/8 needle and a #20 foot.
See if that works. If not, let me know what machine you are using and maybe
we can get it worked out.
Harriet H
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Subject: Re: Walking Foot Modification
Date: Wed, 3 May 95 9:26:13 PDT
Hi, here ya go. ;0}
To Judy and all others that missed the first posting -After years of teaching
quilting with walking feet, I found that if the piece of metal that lays in
front of the needle on the walking foot is removed - your vision improves
100%, and so does your straight line quilting. Let me explain.
When ditch quilting, it is critical that the needle be 'in' the ditch, and
the needle so close to the seam that it rubs. With the foot closed, it is
very difficult to see and control this. If you put your foot down on the feed
dogs, then put the needle into the machine, you will see that the line that
marks the center of the walking foot is not aligned with the needle. If you
quilt using the line on the foot to guide you down the seam, the needle will
not be stitching where the line is riding. Therefore, you are not 'stitching
in the ditch'. If you try looking over the metal bar, you have very limited
vision of where you are going. By removing the metal, you can see the seam
well in front of you, as well as see the needle and easily position it in the
ditch correctly and have perfect ditch quilting. It works like a dream!
Anyone that would like to have this done contact Kurt at
Harriet's Treadle Arts
6390 West 44th Avenue
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
(303) 424-2742
He charges $12.00, which includes insured return postage. There is usually a
1 - 2 day turnaround once he receives the foot. He has done dozens and dozens
of all brands, but especially Berninas, and has never had a complaint or
regret yet.
Harriet H
--
Jean P
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Date: Wed, 3 May 95 20:33:18 PDT
Subject: Hello
Hi everyone. I have a Bernina 1090 and a 2000DE. I love them
both. I just got on the internet and am finding lots of good
things, this being one. I am currently unemployed( my choice)
and am finally finding the time to sew. I sew mostly pre-1840
clothes. We are into the Fur trade reenactment s here in
Wyoming.
Now I have a technical question. For the last few months I
have been running my machine with the bobbin in backwards. Yes
it still worked very well until I got to the end of the bobbin.
Now I have turned my bobbin right side up and am getting some
odd looking stitches. They are not straight more like this \
and then /. Is there something I can do or do I have to take
it to the shop and fess up? Thanks
-------------------------------------
Name: Sue W
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Date: Wed, 3 May 1995 22:55:01 -0700
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/1/95
To obtain the zip code in a different city, visit the Post Office and
look up the street address in the new location. The zip code will be
listed!
Hope that helps...
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 4 May 95 09:26:54 -0500
Subject: Re: AQS Show
Bernina has a Advanced Guide available that is a wealth of info. and all the
books by Mary Lou Null are wonderful. Another good source is the Bernina
Footnotes that dealers carry. Enjoy your new machine!!!! Pat
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 4 May 1995 09:38:15 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Another perspective
Dear Bernina Lovers,
I have been reading the conversations about Berninas and computer
etc. and I would like to present another perspective. I love my Bernina
and I do not think there is a finer machine anywhere. I work part-time
as a salesperson in a store selling B's since 1989 and have liked them
all (although I favor my 1230 most).
Now there are good sales people and not so good in every field and I
thin it behoves us to try to find the best so I naturally agree with
that aspect of the former discussions. HOWEVER the MAC vs IBM capatibily
is another issue. Never in the literature has Bernina indicated that
they were working on or intended in any way to be compatible with or make
software for MACs. If that is an outstanding issue with a customer than
I would certainly say that Berninas is not his/her company. If you want
a darn good machine that sews than Berninas are for everyone.
Another issue is that America is NOT the only economic market for
Bernina. Europe is a big market. I know as Americans (and I am one) we
tend to
think think that we are the primary market and in the sewing business
that is just not so. In fact, the European market is larger because
people there tend to make their own clothes more than the American
counterpart. Perhaps it is because the female out-of-the-home work force
has increased so dramatically in the past 10 years in the States. Also,
the Europeans are not as computer minded as we are. I imagine, my
opinion only, that a lot of us here in the good of US of A would not be
using computers still if they were not forced upon us in the work place.
A good skill that many of us reluctently learned and now enjoy
(especially internet!YEAH!)
This is a little long winded but I just wanted to point out that for
some of us we are not as concerned with the computer compatibility aspect
and just really enjoy an excellent sewing machine. I would hate to
discourage anyone on the BERNIN NET from purchasing a machine because of
computer compatability if that is not an issue with you. I have found a
great machine the sews very well and in the end that is what I want from
a sewing machine. So everyone with a Bernina, I wish you fun sewing.
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 4 May 95 08:03 PDT
Subject: Re: Another Perspective
Hi everyone!
I agree 100% with Jacquline. I have a 1530 that I love and am just not
interested in computer capabilities. There are many of us who joined this
bernina group for support and tips on using the machine , quilting, sewing, etc.
I know there are some of you who have strong interests in the mac/ibm issue,
but it seems to have taken away from our common interest--which is sewing.
I would like for our focus to get back to that. There have been so many
helpful hints from all of you out there. Thank you, thank you. thank you!
Cheryl R
===========================================================================
Subject: Re: AQS Show
Date: Thu, 4 May 1995 10:25:23 -0800
Sorry, but I couldn't just let this post go by. At the risk of starting a
flame war I feel I have to respond. I am not affiliated with Bernina in any
way nor do I even own one. My wife however, is a multi-line dealer so she
(and, in an indirect way, me) has a lot of experience dealing with the
various sewing machine companies. The best company to deal with - BY FAR -
is Bernina. Both the local rep and national (Canada) staff are very
supportive and helpful. The atmosphere among dealers - Bernina is more
family like then commerce like. In Canada anyway the Bernina staff, from
the Pres to the area rep., are really nice people who often bent over
backwards to assist and accomodate local dealers.
Believe me, the same can NOT be said for other companies. And if Harriet
thinks the Bernina rep is "beating" her on numbers, I can give her the
names of some companies whose reps will leave her positively black and
blue.
While the company is not perfect (the Mac version of the Bernina Designer
Program would be nice) and I'm sure Harriet will have no problem filling
her session at BU) it is definately a class act (like its products).
Just my $0.02 worth.
===========================================================================
Subject: Glue Tube
Date: Thu, 4 May 95 14:07:47 EDT
Hi there,
Just discovered this group and am glad to see it. I'm having great
fun with my 1530. Just finished 2 crazy quilt vests using a bazillion
variations of the embroidery stitches: one for my sister and one for
her 3 yr old daughter. I'm going out to see them the end of May, can't
wait for the praise (I KNOW I will get it, too, that's why she is fun
to make things for).
I'm glad to see Harriet Hargrave so active on the list. I'm responsible
for out quilt guild's '97 raffle quilt and am planning on doing a
variation of the drunkard's path quilt shown in the Oct '94 QNM using
HJH's machine applique drunkard's path block (wonderful technique).
However, several people have raised questions about using Glue Tube and
I would like to be able to answer them.
1) Will Glue Tube affect the fabric over time? (I wouldn't think so,
regular rubber cement seems to have no impact on paper for a
couple of years at least)
2) I've heard that it sometimes stains. Does it? and how do you
remove the stains if it does?
I tried the technique on a test block 2 years ago when I bought
Harriet's book "Machine applique", and I haven't seen any problems with
it. I had some white "pies", too. And its been ironed and has been
pinned to a wokboard above the radiator since then. (Trying to figure
out what to do with it - don't like some of my color choices now)
Hope you can give me some answer's.
Mary Lou
===========================================================================
Date: 04 May 95 18:20:41 EDT
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/3/95
Hi All,
I've been reading everyones complaints about dealers and feeling guilty.
My local dealer, East Aurora, N.Y. is wonderful. They are always up to date on
everything, treat you like family (or better), are very helpful, and interested
in all you have to say. If they receive a customer suggestion they try it.
They seem to get good response from Bernina, as any question I have had they
made a phone call while I waited and had an answer. The Bernina Rep also
attends our banquet each year and talks to everyone. My only problem is I love
my Mac and want software!
Carol
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 04 May 1995 19:08:11 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Walking Foot Modification
My modified walking foot was waiting for me when I returned from Lancaster
at the beginning of April.>> I didn't have a chance to try it until last
week and I am most definitely hooked! I had almost given up on outline
quilting before... and now it is SO easy... and even looks good!
Thanks, Harriet, for sharing this great idea with us! --Judy
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 5 May 1995 10:39:39 +1000
Subject: 1630 P.C Interface Software
Dear Sue...
I have made enquiries locally, and also at a couple of Bernina
Agents in S.California - no one can give us any information about the
Software except vague words about "needing a scanner" and "translates
pictures into embroidery", etc. But on both sides of the Pacific the agents
are happy to sell the package for a fairly hefty price tag!
I'm sure there must be some specifications - something to judge if
the product is worth the price, but so far I have been unable to even see a
demonstration.
No doubt you have discussed the product on this forum, or there may
be some other source of information - could you point me in the right
direction please?
Many thanks.....Betty S
P.S. We have asked for some List archives, but you might be able to give us
some information more directly.
P.P.S. I am really enjoying the mail - congratulations on a very active
forum. Bernina rules!! Particularly the great 1630 (my second Bernina in 30
years).
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 4 May 1995 15:53:43 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/3/95
Harriet,
Good for you! we are all proud of you! Bernina needs someone like you on
their team. I am so lucky now because we have a great dealer right here in
Danbury, they are just the best, always there to answer a question, get a
part, etc. They try very hard to be kept up to date on what is going on. It
isn't easy but they do it.
Roni
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 4 May 1995 22:27:57 -0700
Subject: Stitches
Hi,
Does anybody have the address for STITCHES? I understand that it is a
magazine devoted to machine embroidery and I would greatly appreciate
getting any info on it.
Thank you,
Ellen
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 5 May 1995 07:33:57 -0400
Subject: Re: Great Dealers!
I've heard so many negative things about some dealers, I'm interested in what
makes a great Bernina Dealer?? For those of you who love your Dealers, what,
exactely, do you enjoy about them?? Do they great you when you walk in the
door by name? Are they receptive to your inquiries? Are they always
knowledgeable, or try to find out answers to your questions?
Thank you! Just curious!
Shelley
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 5 May 1995 08:31:22 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/4/95
On Fri, 5 May 1995, Carol C wrote:
> Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/3/95
>
> Hi All,
> I've been reading everyones complaints about dealers and feeling guilty.
> My local dealer, East Aurora, N.Y. is wonderful. They are always up to date on
> everything, treat you like family (or better), are very helpful, and interested
> in all you have to say. If they receive a customer suggestion they try it.
> They seem to get good response from Bernina, as any question I have had they
> made a phone call while I waited and had an answer. The Bernina Rep also
> attends our banquet each year and talks to everyone. My only problem is I love
> my Mac and want software!
Carol
Hi, Carol! Couldn't agree more about the 'Nina dealer in East Aurora!
They *are wonderful! I'm sure that knowing them was the reason why the
two dealers I've talked to here in NC were such a pain - I'm used to
better treatment, by far.
My dad bought my beloved 801 from them more than 12 years ago - he
hemmed and hawed for _hours_, looking over all the various models, asking
a zillion questions, and just generally wearing out the poor person who
was helping him, *finally made up his mind, and then casually said "Oh,
and I want three of them." I've often treasured the idea of the look on
the salesperson's face...
Please don't feel guilty - feel *lucky*! :^)
Elaine J
who got to share 'nina stories with her mom and sister
===========================================================================
Subject: Mac Software
Date: Fri, 5 May 95 13:51:57 BST"
As both a European and a Bernina owner (1260 and I love it!) I felt I had to
respond to the following statement made yesterday:
> Another issue is that America is NOT the only economic market for
> Bernina. Europe is a big market. I know as Americans (and I am one) we
> tend to
> think think that we are the primary market and in the sewing business
> that is just not so. In fact, the European market is larger because
> people there tend to make their own clothes more than the American
> counterpart. Perhaps it is because the female out-of-the-home work force
> has increased so dramatically in the past 10 years in the States. Also,
> the Europeans are not as computer minded as we are. I imagine, my
> opinion only, that a lot of us here in the good of US of A would not be
> using computers still if they were not forced upon us in the work place.
> A good skill that many of us reluctently learned and now enjoy
> (especially internet!YEAH!)
I have to beg to differ. We Europens certainly are as computer minded as our
US counterparts. The important issue that is being missed here is that MACs
are much less common in Europe, DOS machines are very much more popular. The
reason for this is almost certainly price. I suspect it is this reason that
Bernina provides software for only DOS machines.
Since Europe is the bigger market for Bernina and DOS machines far more
common the MACs in Europe, Bernina probably don't think there is a big enough
market for MAC software... all you lucky MAC owners will have to prove them
wrong.
Jane
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 5 May 1995 06:37:16 -0400
Subject: Re: 1630 P.C Interface Software
I have not been able to get specs for the software, either.
All I know is that it does not need a scanner. You draw the designs yourself
in something like MS Paintbrush. It will also import SOME graphics. (This
was not clearly defined. I was interested in finding out if it would inport
faxed graphics)
I went to a dealertwice and both times the clerk had no idea how to use it
though they had it set up in the store.(If I had access to it I would be
playing with it every spare moment till I learned it, but then I'm a computer
nut) They had no documentation at the store.
It was not particularly easy to use. I was at the time working as a tech rep
for a Windows program and couldn't get it to do what I wanted(10 min playing
time and no manual)
Carol
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 05 May 1995 17:20:27 +0000 (GMT)
Subject: Dealers, Service
I've been reading with great interest all the discussion on IBM/MAC
compatibility and Bernina, Dealers etc. Read on for a slightly different
perspective.
I am not so lucky, In the Irish Republic there is ONE Bernina dealer, tough if
you don't like him. People travel miles to get their machines serviced, we wait
weeks to get extra feet and accessories, no formal free training classes are
given. The dealer has no problem spending time with you answering specific
questions and will give you a half-hour when you buy it first. I was (within a
year of purchase) entitled to free classes but only if I travelled to London
(not economically feasible). I have heard from other Bernina Owners that its
quicker to mail-order from London, to BOGOD the Bernina supply company for
accessories.
I got my machine serviced recently, and while talking to the one person (in this
country who services Berninas) I asked about the 1630. He has sold three
1630's and one set of computer software, so I don't think they've quite taken
off here yet.
I love my Bernina 1090, its just the best, I waited patiently 2 months for my
walking foot, (the dealer doesn't keep them in stock). Come to think of it,
Bernina's are not kept in stock either, I when purchasing mine saw a 1080
that someone else was having serviced.
If I do get totally dissatisfied with the service (I happy enough so far) I
would have to go to Northern Ireland to still deal with another Bernina dealer.
Bernina owners in the Irish Republic are better off than PFAFF owners at
present. There are currently NO PFAFF dealers, the one there was closed
recently and people are travelling up North to get PFAFF's serviced.
I suppose its all to do with population size, demand etc. Is 3 1630's very few
for a population of 3 1/2 million people ?
I assume theres other in other parts of the world in similar situations, for
the best service you need to live where all the other Bernina owners do !
By the way, it was my language that improved when I replaced my Brother
machine with a 1090 :)
Enjoying all the tips, info from this list.
===========================================================================
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/4/95
Date: Fri, 5 May 1995 12:43:40 -0500 (CDT)
I've seen advertisements for "Know your Bernina" (or some such title)
but those don't cover the 1630. My Bernina dealer doesn't seem to
have anything beyond that that came with the machine. Does anyone
know whether there is a book for the 1630 and, if so, where it can
be obtained? Thanks, Lynn
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 5 May 1995 16:27:06 -0400
Subject: Re: Glue Tube
Hi May Lou, and anyone else out there. I have used the glue tube and had it
leech onto the top side of the applique. It was a piece of Hawaiian applique,
so you know how upset I was when it was ruined. The solvent for rubber cement
seems to take out some of the oclor, so I started over and use my good old
stand by - the glue stick. I use Collins and Dennison, and have very good
luck with them.
By the way, I have just had a stencil for the drunkards path technique cut,
so you don't have to fee-hand trace anymore - just trace from the stencil. It
is $5.00 and really works! It's from Cottage Mills or my store. You might
want to try it.
Harriet
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 5 May 1995 18:04:31 -0400
Subject: THANK YOU-Machine applique
Thanks Harriet and everyone. I just knew if I asked, someone or more would
have the answer. Hope to try everything Fri eve. Thanks again. I feel
like I got a private lesson in machine applique!
Mary Beth
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 05 May 1995 20:27:38 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Breaking Needles
On 19-APR-1995 21:26:22.4 Bernina said to JUDYS
> > I remember reading here that breaking a needle will result in
>needing to have > the machine serviced. Does anyone have experience
>with that? With so many > feet, I sometimes forget what I'm doing and
>leave that #37 in place when I go > to zigzag. I did it again last
>night and broke a needle. Ggggrrrrr. >
> > Kelly
I've been using my 1130 (which I bought gently used) since 1992 and have
gone through more needles doing machine quilting and piecing and doing
embellishments on quilted garment than I could count....
I regularly clean and oil my machine and have it serviced annually.
As far as I know, breaking needles in no way injures your machine...
and it is VERY easy to forget which foot you're using! Unless
someone knows something I don't, I'd just change your needle and
not worry about it! --Judy
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 5 May 1995 08:42:18 -0800
Subject: Re: 1630 P.C. Interface Software
As no one seems to want to talk about the Bernina Designer Program perhaps
I might. While I claim no expertise, I have attended a couple of Dealer
training sessions (one of the perks in being married to a dealer) and I
have installed and played with the program a bit on our computer at home.
First of all, the Bernina Designer (BD) program a nice piece of software,
relatively easy to install and learn - even for computer novices. The
program operated under MS Windows. This means that the Windows program
must first be installed on a computer. Without it, the Bernina Designer
program can't be installed.
So, to use the BD program, you need an IBM/Compatible computer capable of
running Windows. And, to run Windows, the computer must have a 80386
("386") microprocessor or higher, at least 4 megabytes of RAM and about 4
megabytes of free hard disk drive space. Remember, these are just
"minimums". If the computer is faster and more powerful and has more RAM,
then both Windows and the Bernina Designer program will operate faster.
The Bernina Designer program itself is similar to any draw or paint program
in that the user can draw their own designs or pictures. Clip Art and
Scanned Images can also be used. Because it operates under Windows, the BD
program will accept a wide variety of graphic formats; Bit Mapped Graphisc
(BMP) Encapsulated Post Script (EPS), TIF, - as long as the graphic format
is Windows compatable, it can be imported into the BD program.
Once the image is imported into the BD program, the user then traces around
it. This is how the 1630 is "told" where to stitch.
The computer is connected to the 1630 via a special interface cable. One
end of the interface cable plugs into the place where the stitch design key
usually goes on the 1630. The other end of the cable plugs into the serial
port of the computer. Most computers have two serial ports or plug-ins
(although some bargin basement specials only have one). The mouse usually
goes in one of the serial ports and the second one is usually empty.
Once the interface cable has been connected to the computer and 1630,
there's a little test program to check that the two are "talking" to each
other correctly. Once that's established it's simply a matter of
transferring the traced design or image from the BD program to the 1630 and
having the sewing machine stitch it out.
Obviously, there are a few more complications and considerations involved
in seting up and using the program. This is a very cursory description of
the program and how it operates. If you'd like more information please let
me know.
===========================================================================
Date: Sat, 6 May 1995 06:58:58 -0400
Subject: Mary Lou Nall
Her address is:
10641 Gulf Beach Hwy.#A Pensacola, Fl. 32507 She has a
book on the 1630 as well as her others which has a wealth of info. Pat
===========================================================================
Date: Sat, 6 May 1995 07:49:35 -0400
Subject: Berninas
Just to add my $.02. I have a 1080 that I love. Bought it through the only
local dealer (the next one's 2 hours away). This dealer never offered me or
another Bernina owner I know lessons ...or anything else, for that matter.
THe dealership gives classes, but they cost. Even at a "discount" one pays
enough for any Bernina that lessons ought to be included. FInally, this lack
of lessons (though the shop people are nice and will order whatever you need)
drove me to look for onther dealer in the area. The other dealer in Maine is
a darling ... but he is bound by the geographical area stuff ... so he can't
mail order for people, and it is very inconvenient (a very long drive!) for
me to get there. So though I am delighted with my 1080 and have few
complaints about our local dealer, I think Bernina's dealer policies may
sufficiently eliminate competition among dealers that some have little
incentive to offer lessons or whatever. Seems as though Bernina is looking
to keep its competitive edge against other brands of machine but may be
overlooking deaaler-to-dealer differences and incentives beyond protection of
territory.
So there's my (somewhat frustrated) $.02. But I still think my 1080 is the
best machine I've ever used and have no need/desire to switch or upgrade.
--Addy
===========================================================================
Date: Sat, 06 May 95 09:39:37 EDT
Subject: Re: 1630 P.C. Interface Software
John and all:
We just got the designer program a short time ago, and have it
up and running. John's description was quite good. I have some
picky quarrels with the programmers - such as the grid that always
measures the same distance regardless of the measurement you choose, etc.,
but, all in all, the program is quite good.
Basically, you must start with a drawing of what you want to sew. You
can either draw this yourself with one of the various "paintbrush"
programs, or you can scan in a drawing with a scanner. Since most of
us don't have scanners, I go down to a copy center that does happen to
have some computers and one with a scanner attached.
You simply bring the drawing into the designer program and then place
your stitches around the lines in the drawing. When you have finished,
you click a button and the pattern that you have created is sent to the
machine. Put in the fabric, press the foot control and off you go.
Note, though, that this is not going to sew something that is a foot square!
You are talking about designs NO MORE than 3" - and the program does not
really like you to have something larger than 1.5". That does not mean
that your initial drawing must be less than 1.5" -- you can reduce the
drawing in the Bernina program itself.
Hope I haven't confused people too much.
===========================================================================
Date: Sat, 6 May 1995 10:40:28 -0400
Subject: Re: Dealers, Service
how nice to hear from someone in Ireland. In addition to sewing I breed
Connemara ponies and my dream is to attend the World Equestrian Games in
Dublin in '98.
===========================================================================
Date: Sat, 6 May 1995 10:47:49 -0400
Subject: Re: AQS Show
If more dealers were like Daisy Kingdom in Portland, Oregon, there would be
very few disgusted remarks showing up in this forum. I bought both a 1230
and a 2000 serger from DK (plus lots and lots of fabric over the years) and
have always received personal and expert advice and help. I believe, because
DK is owned and run by a woman who knows sewing, it assures that customers
get the best service and merchandise available. IMHO
===========================================================================
Date: Sat, 6 May 1995 11:57:55 -0400
Subject: Re: Great Dealers
Shelly, My dealer knows me and is always willing to show me new techniques or
how to use certain feet or will help me with a project if Im having
difficulty. Laura
===========================================================================
Date: Sat, 6 May 1995 04:54:04 -0800
Subject: Re: 1630 P.C. Interface Software
As Jerry pointed out in her last message, most people don't have scanners
which in some ways limits the graphics or pictures they are able to use
with their Bernina Designer Program. Although the small hand held ones are
relatively inexpensive (approximately $250.00), it's hard to justify that
kind of purchase without knowing how much it will be used.
An inexpensive way to scan pictures into a computer without having a
scanner is through a fax machine. This method only works if you have the
following equipment:
- a modem with the ability to send and receive a fax message.
- access to a regular fax machine, either at work, at a friends or ...
First, select the picture or graphic you want scanned into your computer.
It must be on a single page or sheet of paper which can be sent through a
fax machine. If the picture is in a magazine, you may have to photocopy
it.
Second, turn on your computer/fax modem and set the modem &software up to
answer any incoming fax calls. If you have only one telephone line, this
could get tricky as the fax modem will also try to answer human calls too.
Third, quickly go to the regular fax machine. Put the page with your
picture or graphic in the fax and dial your home computer/fax modem. If
all goes well, a copy of the page with the picture or graphic should have
been "faxed" to your computer/fax modem at home.
Fourth, return home (or where ever your computer/fax modem is). There
should be an copy of the page with the graphic or picture - in
electronic/digital format - inside your computer. Using a draw or paint
program, you should be able to cut, paste, manipulate or export the graphic
so that it can be used by the Bernina Designer program.
If after a couple of months of using the Bernina Designer program you find
yourself doing a lot of "faxing/scanning" then you know you're ready to buy
a scanner.
Cheers, John G
===========================================================================
Date: Sat, 6 May 1995 16:48:54 -0400
Subject: Re: Great Dealers
I love my dealer! But I almost didn't buy a Bernina because of a dealer. I
was already to buy a 1090 and went out to Erie Street Quilts in Willoughby
OH and was treated rotten. The salesperson was short, impatient and not
that knowledgeable. When I left the store I swore I would go buy a Pfaff.
My SO found another dealer, Hoops'n' Hollers out in N. Olmsted and drug me
out to meet them. Sandi Luther, the owner spent over an hour talking with
us and going over things. She wanted to mke sure I got the machine that was
the best for me not the one that would make her the most money. After we
bought the machine she introuduced us to the staff. Now every time I go in
there they remember who I am want what quikts I working on. They offer free
classes and a Bernina club. I love my dealer!
Traceydiane L
===========================================================================
Date: 07 May 95 13:22:02 EDT
Subject: Re: Bernina DIgest 5/5/95
Just to name a few things that make my dealer great, hmmmmmmmm
1. yes, they do greet me by name; plus they know my husband and kids (really
impressed by this since I am bad at remembering names)
2. always up to date with the latest products and amny suggestions and examples
of how to use them
3. Lots of diverse classes at various times to accomadate everyone
4. four different times offered for Bernina Club
5. Interesting Bernina Club projects
6. always someone available to help with a problem, in person or over the phone
7. Super repair person, often takes care of your problem while you shop
8. customers spend so much time togeather we become friend, everyone sends cards
for someone who is ill when it is posted at the store
9. Well stocked, and if something you want isn't they will get it for you fast
10. The owners are a riot they have so much fun running their shop that you
can't help but want to be there joining in.
11. I could go on and on but these are the major points.
Carol
===========================================================================
Date: Sun, 07 May 95 16:30:03 EDT
Subject: Opinions on Dealers
I am reading with envy the stories of Bernina owners who have great relation-
ships with their dealers. While I have no true horror stories to tell, I have
to say that going into my local shop is not a warm and friendly experience.
I bought a Bernina 1230 from my local dealer 4-5 years ago and a Bernette 334DS
about 2 years ago. I went for all the classes with the sewing machine and, de-
spite having sewn for 20 years at that point, I learned quite a bit. However,
the owner/teacher's snooty attitude towards classmates was a bit disconcerting.
"Oh, no dear, with a Bernina one *never* uses Coats and Clarks; I personally
wouldn't trust anyone who does." "Now, Agnes, you need to pay a little more
attention; this is the area you have difficulty with." Also, sighing and
rolling the eyes when one of the less mechanically inclined couldn't quite
adjust something as quickly as she wanted.
After I bought the serger, I was unable to take the classes (I was working
full-time that semester and in school finishing up my master's degree thus
was unavailable for day *or* evening classes). Despite this, I was given
little to no help with set-up before I left the shop. Subsequently, I regis-
tered for the next set of classes. I had to cancel about a week before they
began (due to my doctoral program course change). I called and left a mes-
sage on the store's answering machine. After the first class, I was called
and berated for being a no-show. Despite my explanations, the owner claimed
that she had held a place for me and it was doubtful that I would be able to
get into classes again anytime soon. I have not yet taken classes.
Remember my name? no way. Act like I'm a stranger when I'm the store? You
bet. Of course, by now, I *am* a stranger. *Technically* I get good service;
however the warmth isn't there. Again, *technically* she is a good teacher;
but she obviously feels above us mere mortals who dirty her shop.
Too bad, because I've sent quite a bit of repair business her way (her husband
is a genius when it comes to repairs) and would love to be part of a "sewing
community." Thus, I was thrilled to find alt.sewing and rec.textiles.sewing
(never quite remember the name of this last one). I've found a sense of
community and helpfulness that my dealer is lacking.
And you all make me envious!!
===========================================================================
Date: Sun, 7 May 1995 21:36:45 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Opinions on Dealers
please forgive me for replying on this, when it actually is another subject,
but I can't seem to find my info. on how to post.
I feel as if I have missed something about the walking foot (feet?).
I bought a "quilters Bernina" a new 1090 last year and with it I purchased
a straight needle throat plate, a #37 foot and the walking foot.
This walking foot has the roller BEHIND the needle, and I really can't
see what anyone would change on it. It has a large square hole and the
feet in front have spaces to see through. Being a librarian I feel that
I must have started reading in the middle of the book! Could someone
enlighten me on what needs to be modified? By the way, I drove to Jupiter
from Ft. Lauderdale, Fl., an hour and a half drive, because the dealer is
also a quilter, a quilt shop owner, and a WONDERFUL PERSON! Then I went
back for lessons &have always been so happy that I did!!
The Bernina is a wonderful machine, but a good dealer is a gift from heaven!
Marjorie
===========================================================================
Subject: Drunkard's path templates
Date: Mon, 8 May 95 08:12:19 EDT
I have drawn the drundard's path "pies" in a computer drawing program and
am printing them directly on the freezer paper with my inkjet printer.
Even better than a template when doing lots of them to distribute to
other people. Made up some test blocks this weekend and was reimpressed
with the ease of the technique. Not so impressed with my original
color choices. Back to the fabric store for me (such a hardship!)
Mary Lou
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 8 May 1995 09:29:51 -0400
Subject: short people
>OH and was treated rotten. The salesperson was short, impatient
Hey what's the matter with being short? I'm short and still nice to people.
What? Oh never mind...I am glad Tracydiane is happy with her dealer, and was
kind enough to name names.
Carol who is your dealer? They sound great too.
On a different subject. I am going to have to learn how to sew clothes and
like it. Yesterday I had decided I really wanted a chambray sun dress, so off
I went to my favorite store. Everytime I try to sew clothes I end up not
liking it, so I had decided just to buy one. I tried on three dresses, and I
liked one, but noticed that it was made really poorly. I think I have been
looking at too many quilts lately, last month I wouldn't even have noticed. I
ended up buying three rayon shirts instead, because they were cheaper than
buying the yardage. But perhaps I have come upon a trick that may be obvious
to the rest of you. I now know which pattern to buy and what to do to the
dress to flatter my short round figure...
I just feel strange having a nice sewing machine and not really being able to
sew clothes very well...
Have a nice week.
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 08 May 1995 09:51:51 EST
Subject: "my" Bernina Dealer
I guess I'd like to add my bit about dealers.
I bought a used 1010 about 2 years ago from my local dealer. I got 6 or 8
I can't remember which, hours of basic how-to lessons. These were 2-hour
group lessons with one of the sales persons.
The owner owns the shop and knows the machines and is always encouraging
to buy up. The sales women know the machines and teach the classes and
aren't so "pushy" as the owner.
In addition to the basic lessons, they offer advanced guide classes which
are about once a month covering advanced techniques and how-tos on
different feet that aren't included in the basic set.
Since I bought my machine, they've changed the price structure and now
charge an extra $100 for the extras. For example the 1000 and the 1001 are
on sale nationally for $499 and $699 with trade-in. For that price they'll
give you 3 lessons and the basic bernina waranty. For the $100, you get
all the advanced lessons, 10 cleanings (1 per year for 10 years), additional
service, trial membership in the video club, etc. Adding it up, it is worth
the extra, but it is disturbing to have that added on after you have a price
in your head.
The shop also carries baby lock sergers and the baby lock embroidery
machine. They know my name, they don't know my husband (he won't go in there)
and some of the sales people even remember specific projects I've been
working on. They recently moved and now they are a mile from my house!.
Their prices *always* beat G-Street's prices, so for the most part I am
very happy with the shop. The extra charge for the lessons still rattles
me, though. How do you all feel about that?
k-
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 8 May 95 09:12:00 CDT
Subject: Books for the 1630
My dealer offers an advanced guide book class.
I couldn't attend the class but my dealer told me
that I could purchase the book anyway. The
title of the book is "Advanced Guide Book." It's $65
here and it's a 3-ring binder type thing. I haven't
bought the book yet, so I don't know if it's specifically
for the 1630 or not.
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 8 May 1995 10:07:15 -0500
Subject: New member
I know this probably is putting the cart before the horse, but I have not
purchased a Bernina "Yet". I was all set to buy a Bernina serger, but
couldn't part with the money. Now I am thinking that I would rather buy a
Bernina sewing machine first and later on a serger. I bought a Singer a
few years ago and have been a little disappointed. Not enough feet, and
the applique is not very good.
Anyway I am hoping to glean informtion from all of you Bernina owners.
I just got a newsletter from the local dealer saying the Berninas are going
up in June do to the devaluation of the Amerian dollar. (sigh)
Sarita
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 8 May 1995 11:55:37 +0500
Subject: Re: Great Dealers
I can't say enough nice things about my Bernina dealer - J &L Sewing
Shoppe in Ellicott City, Maryland. It's owned by a husband and wife
team - June truly loves to sew and Larry is a superb sewing machine
repairman. Between them their knowledge base is tremendous. They
offer free classes when you buy a Bernina (I'll be going to my
third class this week). The classes are wonderful! I'm learning
almost as much about my machine as I am tips on sewing in general!
They also go to Switzerland a lot (I think every year) to stay
current on all the great Bernina machines.
They are always helpful with customers and make you feel like
you're an old friend. They always want to be sure that you're
happy.
And on top of that, their prices are the best - they beat G Street
Fabrics hands down.
I thank my lucky stars they are so good and so close!
Monica T
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 8 May 95 10:18:17 PDT
With all the good advice I've been reading here since I "joined,"
perhaps you can give me some tips.
I've been sewing for 20+ years, have a 'Nina 1090 (for about 2
years), and have a new-to-me Bernette 334DS, which I like a lot.
I'm just beginning to actually use my serger, and it seems to me
that there is nearly a whole new way of sewing when you have both
machines to work with. I have a couple of serger books (ABC's,
Creative Serging, and the small Palmer/Plesch book) for reference,
and they are very useful. But suddenly I am nearly overwhelmed with
the variety of techniques to "do this and that" using the serger.
For example, the collar technique demonstrated in the ABCs... book.
Does anyone have any suggestions as to which of these nifty-sounding
techniques are truly ones to learn to incorporate into dressmaking
(nothing fancy...just regular go-to-work clothes), and which are
just nifty ideas to help sell sergers?
Thanks!
Judy C
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 8 May 1995 14:10:21 EST
Subject: questions
Am glad I joined. Excellent info and have learned how things have changed
greatly, since I began sewing when I was 4, stopped 5 yrs ago and am now
thankfully sewing again, except now Im in my 50's
Questions:
1. Is a serger a necessary purchase, when I have the 1630 Bernina? Yes I
think I know what a serger will do, but what are the less obvious
advantages over the nina which seems to do almost everything except put the
cat out.
2. The embroidery Bernina ( I forgot the number) I saw it at a quilting
store. Seems if one had little kids(which I dont) it would be wonderful.
I guess same questions as above. What are the benefits?
3. Sue, you received a posting from Margorie L. Moorefield. It came from
bcfreenet.seflin.lib.fl.us I would venture to say she lives in the same
area I do. She mentioned a Bernina store in Jupiter Florida, Would like
that address, please. She can post or email to me thanx
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 8 May 1995 17:34:13 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/7/95
Our dealer here in Danbury is the best.
Yes, they know you by name, it is so nice to be greeted when you walk in the
door, and asked how things are, how are the kids, how is work, etc.
They always make time for you, no matter what. If they can't answer a
question, they call and find out the answer.
They try very hard to be aware of what is new and exciting from Bernina, or
from quilting/ sewing in general.
Repairs are quick, they will give loaners if you go into Bernina withdrawl,
when my Bernina went for it's upgrade, they had a 1080 for me. It was
wonderful.
Their classes are fun! You are never talked down to,, you are always made to
feel like you are important and doing ok.
Their store is just a fun, relaxing, enjoyable place to be.
No stress, no worries, just fun.
I just think that they are the best.
Ginny and Dennis Murphy
The Quilt Shop
Padanarum Rd.
Danbury, Ct.
Roni G.
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 8 May 1995 20:05:45 -0400
Subject: Re: Rose things
I know this is not strictly Bernina related, but I figured someone here
would know-- How do you make flowers out of fat quarters?? I've seen them in
pictures- give someone a dozen fat quarters on stems instead of "real"
flowers. I would like to try it. Thanks
Beth
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 8 May 1995 09:20:20 -0800
Subject: Quilting in New England
Hello All,
This message is pretty far off topic so I hope everyone will indulge me
this one time. Actually I have to say that this is one of the nicest lists
I've belonged to. All of you are so considerate and supportive that even
though I often do little more then pass on information to my wife, I still
enjoy being a part of this group.
Next week, my wife and I will be visiting Southern New England (Conn. R.I.
and the Boston Area. Unfortunately, we won't have a lot of time to site
see and my wife is an avid quilter. Where would you suggest we go - re.
quilt shops, quilt museums, anything to do with quilting.
So as not to increase traffic on this list, please respond to me directly at:
Thank you all for your help.
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 9 May 1995 01:03:54 -0400
Subject: Re: short people
(snip here..............................
I just feel strange having a nice sewing machine and not really being able to
sew clothes very well...
Have a nice week.
________________________
Dear RobbieEklow.......I am SOOOO glad to hear you say something about not
being able to sew! I have a Bernina 1630 and have had the beginner lessons
and took a jacket class, etc. I was having trouble with minor things, like
putting in buttonholes correctly, zippers, measuring!! How embarrassing :)
I am taking a 4-week Adult Beginning Sewing Class starting on Thursday
night at Topstitch, my hometown fabric store. I can't wait to learn how to do
it all correctly. I only have about 275 patterns in my "to do" drawer waiting
for me to make them! (yes, of course, I have the fabric for all those
patterns, too!!! LOL)
My new problem is pulling myself away from the computer to the sewing
machine to actually DO SOME WORK!!!!
Mary Beth
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 8 May 1995 00:27:40 -0400
Subject: Bernina Digest - Bernina Dealers
Saw your questions and thought I would answer for the dealer I use:
The dealer I use is in a quilt shop (he repairs the 'Nina's and she teaches
quilting). If purchased at the shop, lessons are free for as often as you
want to take them (sometimes a problem getting in if there has been a big
sale and EVERYONE wants to learn how to use), but they are willing to sit
with you and teach you what you need to get going. Also will re-teach the
specialty items you learned months ago and want to use now but have forgotton
(or didn't write down) how to use them.
turn-around for machine repair is usually within a few days. If I take the
machine in for general service before their Mystery Quilt Weekend (out of
town) I try to allow a week because all participants are doing the same
thing.
All of the quilt instructors at the shop have gone in for training on the
machines (one even has an 830 and has given a special training for those who
inherited 'Nina's and don't know what they have.
I have been going to the shop long enough that, yes, they greet me by name.
Have also noticed they will remember names of persons who have just been
there a couple of times.
I wouldn't take my 'Nina to anyone else. Don't know what I will do when he
decides to retire or they sell the shop.
Anne W
===========================================================================
Subject: Re:templates
Date: Tue, 9 May 95 07:58:10 EDT
>Hi Mary Lou. I read your post on the Bernina group and I am interested in how
>you do the templates on the computer. What kind of printer do you use to
>print on freezer paper? What drawing program do you use? That sounds so
>interesting and fun. I use Adobe Illustrator but I have never printed
>directly in freezer paper.
Hi Evie. I use Adobe IntelliDraw for drawing (it was cheap, but I don't
see it for sale anymore) but any drawing program would work. I have an
HP 560c inkjet printer. I cut the freezer paper to size (7.5 x 15
inches for my test) using a dull rotary cutter blade, put it in the tray
paper side down, and just print normally. I did "de-curl" the paper a
bit (to ensure even feeding) by drawing it across the edge of a table
against the curl, but I don't know if that was really necessary. I
think any printer with a single sheet feed would work - except possibly
a laser printer. The heat would melt the plastic and gum up the works.
In the case of a laser printer you could possibly use Harriet Hargrave's
method of putting freezer paper through a copy machine - tape it to a
piece of regular paper with the plastic side to the paper and feed
that to the printer. I have never tried it, but in her book "Mastering
Machine Applique", she has photos of the method.
Mary Lou F
===========================================================================
Subject: re: Using freezer paper with inkjet printer ]
Date: Tue, 9 May 95 08:27:20 EDT
Lynette,
>Doesn't the engine melt the wax on the paper? I am so tired of drawing on
>tissue paper.
Nope. There is no heat involved in either an inkjet or ribbon style
dot matrix printer, only laser printers.
Mary Lou
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 9 May 1995 08:34:41 -0400
Subject: Re: Sergers
there is a book called Innovative Serging that has all sorts of great things
to do with sergers and how to incorporate them into everyday sewing. I
believe it is available through Nancy's Notions. Ihave found it to be the
most helpful of all the books I have read.
I have a 1630 and the 334ds serger. I also have a coupon for 25% off
everything at my dealer. Should I buy the computer programor the embroidery
machine????????
Carol
My dealer is MD Sew &Vac in Camp Springs, MD
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 9 May 1995 08:38:24 -0400
Subject: Re: "my" Bernina Dealer
Sounds like you and I shop in the same store. Did you get your flyer? 25%
off your total purchase? I drive 2 hours each way to shop there.
Carol
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 9 May 1995 10:41:30 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Books for the 1630
Do take a good hard look at that book for $65. Years ago I bought a book
recommended by my Bernina dealer, and found it nearly totally useless.
It is a big, beautiful ring-binder with very little in it. Perhaps there
were meant to be periodic inserts available, but I never got them.
Anyway, I didn't spend anything like $65, but it was definitely a
live-and-learn experience. Take some time to study this book and see if
it contains anything you won't get by going to free lessons or asking
questions.
Myra
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 9 May 1995 07:59:18 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Re: New Member
Sarita,
Last fall I traded my Bernina Serger which I'd owned for two years and
my Bernina 930 in on a new Bernina 1630. Best move I've made in a long
time. The Serger was an impulse buy, I know many people love theirs, but
I didn't find enough uses for it, and didn't use it often enough. So
each time I did decide to use it, I had to spend a good hour
rethreading and adjusting it. I would definately buy a good Bernina
Sewing machine before investing in a serger, and not necessarily the
1630, I've been reading lots of good things about the 1260.
Carol
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 9 May 1995 08:11:50 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Re: questions
Paula,
This fall I traded in my Bernina Serger and old Bernina 930 for the
Bernina 1630. I haven't missed the serger one bit! I had it for two
years, took the classes, and made a concerted effort to use it,
especially since I'd put out $900.00 for it. But everytime I wanted to
use it I had to thread and adjust it, about a 45 minute job. (it would
have been faster if I'd used it a lot more often) And I know they have
easy thread ones now. But it just isn't a very versatile (sp) machine as
far as I'm concerned. And I've has so much fun with the 1630! It can do
so much. I'm probably in the minority, but I wouldn't bother with a Serger.
Carol
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 9 May 95 10:00:32 -0700
Subject: Sergers
I have a serger and I use it a lot. I have found, however, that when
you serge wovens, it's impossible to get the thread tension so that
the seam doesn't pucker and yet threads don't show when you pull on
the seam from the right side (Gale Grigg Hazen mentions the same thing
in her book about sewing machines and sergers). So I'm not inclined
to try the serged campshirt with the serged collar that is recommended
in several serging books.
The serger is great for finishing seams, of course, and invaluable for
sewing knits. Serging simple quilts is nice; quilt piecing seams
don't get under tension, so it doesn't matter that if they did the
threads would show.
-- Anne P
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 9 May 1995 20:01:55 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: RE: Bernina Digest 5/8/95
I have seen a Deluxe Walking Foot (fits Bernina) in Clotilde for $20.
Does anyone know how this compares with the Bernina Walking Foot?
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 9 May 1995 20:26:50 -0400
Subject: Re: Hello
I have a Bernina 1080 and 2000de Love them both, but I also am not getting a
straight stitch on the 1080. I would be interested to know the problem
without taking it in to the dealer. Would hate not to have my machine.
Kit
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 9 May 1995 23:17:26 -0400
Subject: Re: 1630 Software
Carol (and anyone else who's interested) -
I have the same Bernina combo as you - the 1630 and the 334DS. (I also have
an 1130 that I still like to use from time to time.) I don't use my serger
constantly, but when I do I really like the 334DS.
I have the Bernina Designer software, which is pretty easy to use. It does
have its quirks, like most first releases, but nothing that makes it
unstable. More like little features that we've become used to in other
graphics programs seems to have been overlooked.
I haven't used it quite as much as I had hoped. Digitizing stitch designs is
a little more involved than I initially thought. Whether it's an original
design, imported clipart, or a scanned image, you still have to lay the
stitches. If it's a simple outline, it's not too bad, but you'll probably
find yourself laying a lot of manual stitches if you want to do some basic
filled areas. (BTW, unless you have a large body of hard copy material that
you want to import as templates, a scanner isn't useful as a good drawing
program with clipart.) Also, I recently got a small digitizing pad which
makes a world of difference in laying the stitches accurately.
I was originally running the software on a 486/33, and editing stitches could
be pretty tedious. Because you have to use up/down buttons to adjust stitch
width and length, I kept overshooting the mark because the buttons would
freeze while the computer re-plotted the stitches. Now I'm running on a
Pentium 100 and it's great. It's not a big deal, but before I got the faster
machine (and before I had a sense of what appropriate settings were) I did
find myself sometimes starting from scratch rather than try to edit something
with a lot of stitch points.
If you're into serious embroidery though, you probably want the embroidery
machine. While the multi-directional feed of the 1630 is great for
continuous patterns (like the big scallops) it isn't well suited for really
large, intricate or filled designs. For that, you want a machine that uses a
mechanized hoop, such as the Bernina/Brother/Esante machine. I don't know
that these machines have a PC interface. Last time I noticed, the only free
standing embroidery machine with a PC interface was the Huskgram/Poem. I've
never used one of those, so perhaps someone else will jump in with info about
those machines.
Hope this helps (rather than confuse!).
Regards,
Ray
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 09 May 1995 22:07:20 MST
Subject: Generic Walking Feet
I've just come home from Bernina Club where the generic walking foot
was mentioned (probably because the price of the Bernina walking foot is
on the rise - apparently due to the modifications required for use on
the 1630)...anyway, one woman has been using the generic foot and has
had two break on her...she is now biting the bullet and getting the
Bernina...as she said as the rate she has to replace the generics, she
will soon have the Bernina paid for...I haven't used a generic myself
but thought I would pass along what I heard tonight.
Sandra
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 10 May 1995 06:04:16 -0400
Subject: Re: Sergers
It sounds likeyour tension is to tight. I serge wovens all the time. Try
loosening your tension and increasing your stitch length.
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 10 May 1995 08:23:09 EST
Subject: "our" bernina dealer
Sounds like you and I shop in the same store. Did you get your flyer? 25%
off your total purchase? I drive 2 hours each way to shop there.
Carol
Carol,
Are we talking about Maryland Sew &Vac? in Camp Springs, MD now in Clinton?
The flyer that had a picture of Michael and Holly getting the Babylock
award for top sales?
===========================================================================
Subject: Re: drunkard's path
Date: Wed, 10 May 95 08:41:29 EDT
Robbi
The technique is completely described in Harriet Hargrave's book
"Mastering Machine Applique", but I will try to describe it here.
1) Draw the pie piece adding seam allowance only on the straight edges.
The curved edge remains the seam line.
2) Cut out the shape on freezer paper and iron it to the wrong side of
the material.
3) Cut the material along the straight edges of the pie, but about
3/16 inch away from the curved edge. This is the seam allowance for
that edge. You don't want too wide a strip because it will ripple
a lot when turned under. The tighter the curve (smaller pie), the
less seam allowance you want here. Precision isn't necessary on
this edge. Eyeball it.
4) Using glue stick (or your other favorite washable glue), put a strip
of glue along the curved edge of the paper. Starting at one edge,
fold the material back on the paper and glue it down. By using a
"pinch and twist" motion with the thumb, the edge of the paper can
be easily followed. The result is a nice smooth edge with no kinks.
5) Cut a square of the second material the size of the finished block
plus seam allowances.
6) Pin the pie piece to this piece matching the corner and edges. Both
right sides should be facing you so it looks like the finished piece.
Hand or machine applique the pie to the square and cut away the extra
backing material behind the pie.
7) Remove the freezer paper by spritzing the glued area with water (to
loosen the glue) and pulling the freezer paper away. The glue will
leave some residual stiffness, but this will disappear when washed.
If you used Glue Tube (rubber cement), the freezer paper will just
pull away with no water. However, there is some concern about fabric
staining.
With this technique it is very simple to get consistent and even
drunkard's path squares. Printing the pies directly on the freezer
paper from the computer eliminates one tedious part (cutting them out
and gluing is still tedious, but can be done while watching a good
video). The freezer paper feeds through my printer (HP 560c) at exactly
the same rate as regular paper. When I am ready to go into production
mode, I figure I will just set it up to print xx copies and go do
something else. You would have problems with a laser printer because of
the heat involved in setting the toner. Harriet Hargrave's book mentions
several ways around the heat in the use of a copier, I assume they would
also work for a laser printer. If you are intrigued and want to do a lot
of freezer paper work, it may be worth while to find an old impact
printer or inkjet printer to have on hand as a second printer.
Yes, tell me about your diamond log cabin. I cannot visualize
tessilation in fives. How do you get a solid tiling?
Mary Lou
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 10 May 1995 09:04:29 -0500
Subject: Re: Short People
Please remember that people are not "born" knowing how to sew. I have been at
it for 45 years, and continue to learn new ways to do everything and my
projects continue to improve. Not perfect by a long shot, but the fun is in the
doing...have fun and enjoy yourself. Suzi
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 10 May 95 09:13:57 EDT
Subject: Re: "my" Bernina Dealer
Carol, where is your dealer located? I live in Orange county about an hour
from Fredericksburg, not too far if your dealer is there. Do have a dealer
here in Charlottesville, but she doesn't have a very good reputuation.
Sharon
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
When spring arrives and lilacs blow I'm not compelled to shovel snow.. . .
So I am glad the seasons through, For what I do not have to do.
CONTENTMENT / Arthur Guiterman
*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
===========================================================================
Subject: Re:Using Freezer paper with inkjet printer
Date: Wed, 10 May 95 9:48:06 EDT
What is this discussion about? Sounds fascinating but I subscribed too late
to get the full scoop.
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 10 May 1995 12:28:39 -0400
Subject: A sick 1080.
This is to Kit;
If you 1080 is not doing a straight stitch; I wouldn't mess around. I'd
take it straight to the dealer. My 1530 did that when I first got it. I did
EVERYTHING I could think of to fix it without taking it in for service. I am
like you, I HATE to have the machine out of my studio!! I use it EVERYDAY in
my sewing business! I can't afford to be without it! I called the dealer
re; the problem and she loaned me one of her machines (I think it might have
been her own personal one!) to use until mine was fixed. The repairman said
the needle bar was slightly out of alignment, he fixed it and I haven't had
the same problem since. So I recommend taking the 1080 in, and ask if they
will loan you a machine. Can't hurt to ask!
HAppy Quilting,
Debby
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 10 May 1995 10:19:29 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Embarrassed
Boy am I embarrassed. I thought I was replying privately to two people
about sergers and was horrified to see my two messages back to back on
this mornings mail! I didn't even use the same facts in each! I replied
privately because I know I'm probably in the minority with my opinion on
sergers so I didn't want to start a discussion. Oh Well! Sorry about
the use of space, twice!
Carol
===========================================================================
Subject: Re: Quilting in New England
Date: Wed, 10 May 1995 11:24:18 -0700 (PDT)
The Quilt Home Page URL is given below. You will find a list
of recommended stores and comments, as well as museums and shows
at this site. And maybe some other stuff that you and your wife
are interested in.
This is a list of all the quilting related sources
that I have found on the 'Net. I do not include
things from commercial providers like AOL and
Compuserve because their stuff is only available
to their own subscribers.
There are many ways to access this information.
At the end of the FAQ, I have included some references
that will help you to explore the net regardless
of your access method (be it e-mail only to
having your very own static IP address).
If you have information to add to my FAQ, please
DO send it to me. If you find an error or are having
trouble with a resource, e-mail me, and I will be happy
to help or change the FAQ.
********************************************************************
********************************************************************
WORLD WIDE WEB RESOURCES
title Dept of Econ, U of Mich
URL http://gopher.econ.lsa.umich.edu/pages/Quilts.html
Lovely full color quilts by Carol Varian.
title Untitled
URL http://ttsw.com/MainQuiltingPage.html
http://quilt.com/quilt.html or
http://ttsw.com/quilt.html
This is the home quilting page. Neat stuff!
title ImageMaker's Gifts for Dog Lover's
URL http://www.onramp.net/~townsend/index.html
Dog fabric.
title DRS Picture Collection
URL http://www.furman.edu/drs/piclist.html
T-shirt quilt
title Spring Cleaning
URL http://www.gems.com/quilt
Spring Cleaning quilt
title Bear's Paw quilt
URL http://www.gems.com/quilt
Internet Friendship Gallery
********************************************************************
GOPHER FINDS/RESOURCES
title Stitching the Yukawa Quilt
root menu: mentor.lanl.gov
path: High Energy/Phenomenolgy/9303/9303320 Stitching...
/Stitching the Yukawa Quilt
This is a visual. I haven't looked at it.
titles Quilts
root menu: servo.hs.jhu.edu
path: 1. -> Images
2. Quilts
This are gifs. I haven't looked at them.
Quilt.11.gif Quilt.20.gif Quilt.21.gif Quilt.26.gif
Quilt.27.gif Quilt.30.gif Quilt.31.gif Quilt.70.gif
title UseNet Articles on Quilting (Rec.crafts.quilting)
root menu: gopher.sun1000.ci.pwr.wroc.pl
path: Netnews/rec/crafts/quilting
Lists articles by number. It's difficult to find anything.
title Fractal Quilt
root menu: archives.math.utk.edu
path: /Software/Mac Software by Subject/fractals/Fractal Quilt
I dunno what this is.
title Quiltculator
root menu: micros.hensa.ac.uk
path: /Micro Computer Software/IBMPC software/DOS
/alphabetical order/Quiltculator
This is a quilt block drafting program.
********************************************************************
FTP FIND/RESOURCES
URL: ftp://mac.archive.umich.edu
ftp://sumex-aim.stanford.edu
path: /graphics/utilities/colorknit (?)
path: /graphics/utilities/studiocraft (?)
Colorknit makes it SUPER easy to design anything that's
all squares--it has an adjustable grad size, and you can choose to color
in one square at a time, or 'paint' larger chunks. This is perfect for
designing nine-patch, irish-chain types, etc.... You just click away with
the mouse and it's totally self-explanatory.
And if you knit as well as quilt, this program will show you how the
design you created will look in stitches (you just click on an menu
option that switches from stitch to squares or vice versa).
Studiocraft allows you to do just about anything, though it takes a bit
longer. You can edit the colors yourself, which is handy. And you can
make circles and any type of triangle or polygon, square, etc....
You can even draw freehanded curved lines, which would be handy if you
were experimenting with how an applique would look in your design.
title: VQuilt demo
URL: ftp://micros.hensa.ac.uk
path: /micros/ibmpc/dos/k/k112/demovqlt.exe
Genie : P.HISLEY
CompuServe : 73177,162
demovqlt.exe is a self-extracting archive .. hensa
unfortunately did not post the accompanying installation
instruction file.
To install the demo simply copy the demovqlt.exe archive to the ROOT
directory of your hard disk and then execute it. A subdirectory named
\VQLTDEMO will be created and the demo files will be extracted into it.
To run the demo simply CD into \VQLTDEMO and type VQLTDEMO at the MS-DOS
command line prompt. VQuilt REQUIRES a mouse and VGA.
Information supplied by Phil Hisley.
URL: ftp://ftp.netcom.com
path: /pub/ar/artbooks
Kenneth Starosciak Art Books has made available our
inventory lists of out of print books in the anonymous
ftp ftp.netcom.com under our directory /pub/ar/artbooks.
We specialize in art, architecture, and decorative and
textile arts. We are members of the Antiquarian Booksellers
Association. Feel free to download any of our catalogues or
Lists on the anonymous ftp:
amerart1.txt decarts1,txt costum01txt rugs01.txt
amerart2.txt euroart1.txt lace01.txt tapest01.txt
archit01.txt photog01.txt needle01.txt textil01.txt
archit02.txt basket01.txt quilts01.txt weaves01.txt
Ordering instructions follow each file.
Information supplied by Kenneth Starosciak
URL: ftp://ftp.luth.se
path: /pub/mac/demo/pcquilt_mac_demo.sea.hqx
URL: ftp://ftp.hawaii.edu
path: /mirrors/info-mac/app/pc-quilt-demo.hqx
Quilt design program demos for the mac. For more information:
95472.
Information supplied by Nina Antze.
title: PCQuilt demo for Mac
URL: ftp.luth.se
path: pub/mac/demos
file: pcquilt_mac_demo.sea.hqx
URL: ftp.hawaii.edu
path: mirrors/imfo-mac/app
file: pc-quilt-emo.hqx
URL: mrcnext.cso.uiuc.edu
path: pub/info-mac-app
file: pc-quilt-demo.hqx
A demo version of the PCQuilt for the Mac is available at several ftp sites.
The demo is identical to the commercial version except that printing and saving
have been disabled. PCQuilt was designed to be quick to learn and easy to
use.
Information from Usenet dated Thu, 24 Nov 1994 19:53:33 GMT
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QuiltPro Sales Representatives are on the 'Net.
For information send e-mail.
Information supplied by Linda Breshears, Quilt Pro Rep
Whiffle Tree Quilts, in Cupertino, CA has a WEB page. It's
got some interesting things, schedules, challenge information, spotlight
on customers, special shows, book signings, etc.
URL: http://www.danish.com/wtq
Currently available:
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Accessing The Internet By E-Mail
Doctor Bob's Guide to Offline Internet Access
3rd Edition - December 1994
It's a medium size file that teach you all you may need.
"How to Access Internet Services by E-mail
-----------------------------------------
If your only access to the Internet is via e-mail, you don't have to
miss out on all the fun! Maybe you've heard of FTP, Gopher, Archie,
Veronica, Finger, Whois, WAIS, World-Wide Web, and Usenet but thought
they were out of your reach because your online service does not provide
those tools. Not so! And even if you do have full Internet access,
using e-mail servers can save you time and money.
This special report will show you how to retrieve files from FTP sites,
explore the Internet via Gopher, search for information with Archie,
Veronica, or WAIS, tap into the World-Wide Web, and even access Usenet
newsgroups using E-MAIL AS YOUR ONLY TOOL."
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Leave Subject blank, and enter only this line in the body of the note:
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To learn more on how to get the most out of the
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to the Internet_. It used to be called _The
Big Dummies Guide to the Internet_, and altho
it is not as lite as before it is still good
reading. It is available from:
URL ftp://ftp.eff.org
gopher://gopher.eff.org
http://www.eff.org
EFF BBS (+1 202 638 6120)
AOL keyword EFF
CIS EFFSIG forum
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 10 May 1995 20:53:57 -0400
Subject: Sergers and Skills
Finally I'm propelled to reply--SERGERS are like MICROWAVE OVENS --they
make your sewing tasks better and faster. But just like you have to practice
and plan to make more uses than just reheating things in your microwave, you
have to practice to gain the skills needed to enjoy your serger.
I sew everything imaginable on my 334DS--I'm sure the newer models are great,
but I haven't felt the need to do anything this one won't do (haven't found
any such thing!)
I'm convinced that Bernina's sergers are the best on the market--and the
easiest to use.. Best advice is to test-sew and adjust if needed EVERY time
you start a new project.--The threads and fabric thicknesses all play a part
in how the threads interlock to make the seam.
Best books to learn from IMHO are the Creative Serging Illustrated and its
sequel, Innovative serging (both Palmer-Pletsch) I also subscribe to the
P/P Serger Update (I share the cost with a friend because it is too
expensive) to keep up with the newest innovative developments.
Using a serger really DOES speed up your sewing and makes it look more
professional--that's important to me and many others.
Serge onward!
Ida T
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 10 May 1995 21:21:25 -0400
Subject: Thanks and intro.
Thanks Mary Lou for the info on printing on freezer paper. Thanks to every
one else for all of the Bernina support. I am new to this group and I think
it is great! I especially like the discussion on dividing our time between
computing and sewing/quilting. In my case it is quilting. I know how to do
other kinds of sewing. I am just not interested right now.
I have a 1090 and I love it. It works great for the machine quilting I do.
I also have young children so I don't get to sewing or computing as much as
I would like!
Any way, thanks for all the help.
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 10 May 95 18:34:53 -0700
Subject: Generic Walking Feet
I had a generic walking foot (not for my Bernina). I managed to break
it after about an hour's worth of work, by installing it incorrectly.
For klutzes like me, the 'Ninas high cost feet are well worth it; not
only do they work wonderfully, but they also are hard to break. Now
that I have my 'Nina, I find myself changing feet constantly.
Practically every time I sit down to sew a seam, I change the foot.
My faves are #0, #10 and #37, but the walking foot, the open-toe
foot, the gathering foot and the jeans foot are useful when you need
their specialties. The only loser I've found is the zipper foot,
which is a useless piece of crap; I use a generic zipper foot on the
Bernina adapter.
-- Anne P
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 10 May 1995 19:35:24
Subject: Montana/NE Washington dealers
Hi! I'm a new member who's planning a trip through Kalispell/Whitefish
Montana, Coeur D'Alene Idaho and Spokane Washington later this month.
Would like to know of any Bernina dealers in the area. We have an excellent
dealer here in Calgary (The Quilter's Cabin) but I'd like to compare Canadian
prices with U.S. I'm especially interested in a second bobbin case
($100 CDN) and a straight stitch throat plate for my 1630. Thanks!
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 11 May 1995 06:32:39 -0400
Subject: Re: 1630 Software
Thanks, I am still debating which to buy and had pretty much come to the
conclusion that the embroidery machine was the way to go. Maybe sometime it
will come out with a PC program. It does make sense(at least to me)
Carol
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 11 May 1995 06:41:42 -0400
Subject: Re: "my" bernina dealer
Sure wish my dealer was here in Fredricksburg. I drive all the way to Camp
Springs, MD. There are dealers in Richmond(no info), Springfield(nice but
computer illiterate)Vienna(avoid at all costs) and G Streetin Fairfax and
Rockville MD. Last time I went there they were not allowed to senn Berninas
in Fairfax because it was to close to Vienna but a lot of people were trying
to get that changed. With the number of Bernina users who hate Vienna sew &
vac I am amazed that they stay in business.
I have a 25% off coupne for my dealer good through May 31 and I am thinking
of going and splerging on the embroidery machine.
I am familiar with Orange...I used to buy orchids from Floradise Orchids in
Gordonsville.
Carol
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 11 May 1995 09:00:55 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/10/95
Carol,
I wouldn't worry about it one bit! :)
It's become 'fashionable' to own a serger, given that they have become 'less
unaffordable'. I personally wouldn't do without one anymore, but that
doesn't have to be the case for everyone. That's what makes a forum like
this instructive: not everyone has the same take on sewing or what they do
(or don't do) with their machines. My mother considered getting an overlock
last year but decided to 'pass', since she doesn't sew that much anymore.
2010 (a lemon from the bottom of the dark years of Singer) instead. Then
maybe she'll sew more :)
I for one appreciate your comment on why YOU don't feel the need for a serger.
Sylvain
Date: Wed, 10 May 1995 10:19:29 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Embarrassed
Boy am I embarrassed. I thought I was replying privately to two people
about sergers and was horrified to see my two messages back to back on
this mornings mail! I didn't even use the same facts in each! I replied
privately because I know I'm probably in the minority with my opinion on
sergers so I didn't want to start a discussion. Oh Well! Sorry about
the use of space, twice!
Carol
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 11 May 1995 10:01:31 -0400
Subject: various
At the AQS show I bought a bunch of feet from Baer Fabrics in Kentucky, they
will sell mail order. Call information to get their phone number they are
listed. There prices were very good on feet and I could have bought a bobbin
case for my 1630 for about $18. $100 canadian is ridiculously high. By the
way, there is no "black latch case" for the 1630. The black latch case for
the other models is fairly expensive, but I understand that it does have a
stronger spring to allow larger threads to be used in the bobbin. I just plan
on having the spring replaced one in a while, a $2 or $3 part. I marked my
second bobbin case with nail polish.
Also, to clear things up, the 1630 has a walking foot that is more expensive
than the other models, and is made specifically for the 1630's wider feeddog
assembly. If you have another machine, you don't need the more expensive
machine.
What I would really like to buy is a rack to hold all my feet in full view
and easy reach of my sewing machine. Same format as a thread rack, but for
Bernina feet. Any ideas? For now I keep the feet in small Plano tackle boxes.
I could probably make one out of wood...
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 11 May 95 09:37:34 EDT
Subject: "my" bernina dealer
Several days ago, I posted my "envy" of those of you who are part of dealer-
ships that have a sense of "community" in the shops. Later, another person
posted raves about "her" dealer who turned out to also be my dealer. She was
happy; I could be happier. I had not posted the name of "our" dealership,
not wanting to blast someone's reputation; I'm particularly glad now, as there
are evidently customers who are much more satisfied than I.
However, I still read with interest about a couple of things and would like
to (informally) poll the readers of this thread...
a. When you buy from your 'nina dealer, do you get lessons for a short
period (6 lessons or so), for a year, or for life? I think I'm reading
that this benefit varies widely. Some seem to get speciality classes
included; others seem to get introductory classes only. I got 6 (I
think) lessons when I bought my 1230. Other lessons cost and are offered
infrequently.
b. What is a Bernina Club? Does it cost to join? How often do you meet?
If lessons are taught, who teaches? Who decides the issues to be covered?
I am not aware of my dealer offering a Bernina Club. A friend regularly
goes to Pfaff Club (at a different dealer) and is very happy.
c. Several of you mentioned 25% discount coupons. Did this come from your
dealer or the manufacturer? How often do you get them? My dealer doesn't
offer this; I think she would say that it is because all her prices are
discounted (but not by 25%). I'm not even aware of special sales or pro-
motionals on accessories. However, in her newsletter (about 3-4 per year),
she does note upcoming price increases.
d. Tell me about your dealer's store -- does it become a "community center"
for sew-ers or is it an in-and-out place to buy accessories or drop your
machine off for servicing? I've been in a few shops where there is a
culture of community. People congregate and helpful hints/ideas/tips are
swapped (kind of like the old hardware store feel). Maybe I want too much,
but is this available out there? Where? Maybe it is a function of stores
that also sell fabric? People have a *reason* to congregate and discuss.
I don't think I've ever been in my dealer's (in 5 years or so) where there
have been more than 2 other customers at the same time (unless a class is
beginning or ending). Is this "traffic" common?
Meanwhile, thanks for the many hints. I've gather the sense of "community"
on-line that I hoped to find at my dealer. You're great!
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 11 May 95 08:45:48 MDT
Subject: historical clothing
I was really interested to read that Sue W was both a Bernina
person and a historical reenactor. My family also attends the
local pre 1840 rendezvous. I was curious about others use of
sewing machines in constructing clothing for rendezvous. Do you
handsew all visible seams?
Additionally, I have had considerable difficulty in adapting some
patterns from the Buckskinner books and magazines. The armhole
in almost every shirt pattern is very tight, even after major
adjustments. Was this just the way it was back then?
If anyone is interested, I also have surfed around and found
various FAQ's and catalog lists for pre-1840 stuff, Civil War stuff,
and especially medieval stuff (which I am not interested in at all -
that clothing is far too warm for the desert southwest).
Looking forward to a summer of great rendezvous!
Debbie
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 11 May 1995 09:54:25 MST
Subject: RE: Montana/NE Washington Dealers
Hi Charlene...this has to be short but there is a Bernina dealer in
Kalispell (used to be a shop on its own but may be connected with the
Quilt Gallery now....and there is likely one in Spokane. As for prices
when I was there two years ago and converted Canadian money into u.s.
It was cheaper for me to buy here (plus supported Lethbridge economy).
I do know of one woman in Fernie who purchased a machine in Kalispell
recently...she paid exactly the same price she would have paid in
Lethbridge plus she had to pay duty and the GST anyway. In addition,
the warranty is not valid in Canada so she had to purchase some kind
of warranty plan...in my estimation for machines it's just not worth
the hassle...feet for our Berninas might be a different story and I
would be interested in what you find. If you are a fabric nut the
Quilt Gallery has nice fabric but expensive....again, once their prices
are converted into price per metre in Canadian dollars, the price is the
same...however, some prints are not offered for export to Canada so you
will find some that are not available here...which is what I look for...
anything I can buy in Canada I do...but do love to find things that
just aren't available....there is also a House of Fabrics in Kalispell
and a Ben Franklin which also had some neat stuff. Nothing in Whitefish
(11 miles from Kalispell)....very pricey town (something like Banff only
not as big...although if you are motelling it, because it off season
the motels might be cheaper than Kalispell)...I spent a few days in
that area going to the Quilt Show in September, shopping and lazing
around...You could also check our Cour d'laine (can't remember how
to spell it) ....at last check sales tax there was 4% (no exceptions)
Some people say Washington state doesn't charge its 8% sales tax to
Canadians but that has not been my experience....I get charged....
So anyway, have a wonderful trip and if you are passing through
Lethbridge, there is a nice little shop called Thread Bear in the
Homestead Mall (prices for Bernina feet are cheaper than Quilters
Cabin...I checked this out in april but things do change quickly.....
Tell them Sandra sent you.....
Sandra M
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 11 May 95 09:42:08 PDT
I agree with Anne P's comments about the Bernina feet. I'd
add in the #5 (blindhemming) foot to her list. And next time there
is a sale on feet at any local dealer, I'm going to get the walking
foot.
The 'Nina zipper foot is terrible. I recently purchased the adapter
and now have gone back to using the Elna zipper foot from my old
machine.
Judy
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 11 May 1995 13:18:31 +0500
Subject: Quilt Key for 1630
My dealer mentioned that Bernina will soon have a new key
available for the 1630 that has quilting stitches.
I didn't get a chance to get more information on this. Does
anyone know anything about this? What's on the key?
Thanks,
Monica T
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 11 May 1995 10:38:50 EST
Subject: changes
Some observations regarding changes in sewing "things"
After not sewing for 4-5 years, I am amazed at what is now available in
just the notions end of it all
Threads. metrozene -- dont think i would go back to the old standby jp
coats. i am amazed at how beautiful it does what it is supposed to.
bute t excellent, results Have heard of other types but now used them
yet.
Seams great wonderful for elastic casings.
fast turn(Nancys notions). I used to complain about turningcording,
piping, c. but not anymore.
feel like Im a kid in a candy shop.
Now if I can find some good fabric shops in S. Florida or who are some mail
order services you all recommend? Thanks for listening. Paula
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 11 May 1995 18:38:53 -0400
Subject: Re: straight stitch throat plate
I have a 1230. Is a straight stitch throat plate valuable. I am a quilter.
WIll it help in avoiding the first stitches caught as I stitch those 1/4 in.
seams? Do you use one? I would like some opinions. Thanks. Am enjoying the
board very much!
Linda
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 11 May 1995 17:57:49 MST
Subject: Re: Montana/Ne Washington Dealers
I do apologize to this list...though I had just sent my message to
Charlene...believe me I do know better...must have been in one of my
absent minded states.
Sandra
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 11 May 1995 21:21:27 MST
Subject: Re: Straight stitch throat plate
Hi...it's me again...yes, I have a straight stitch throat plate and love
it...it does away with stitches being caught...I use it almost all the
time (for my quilt piecing as well as any straight stitching on garments)
The trick is to remember to remove it if you are going to do one of
the decorative or zig zag stitches. I place one of those coloured dots
between the stitch selection bars (on the 1031) to remind myself that
the s.s. plate is in.
Sandra
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 11 May 95 12:40 PDT
Subject: Re: Montana/NE Washington Dealers
Hi! I live in Veradale, Washington which is a suburb of Spokane. We have a
wonderful Bernina dealer here--Jackie Wolf who owns the Quilting Bee. They
are located at 405 S. Dishman-Mica road. Coming from Idaho on I-90 you
would take the Argonne exit, stay on it even as it crosses Sprague (an
artieral). The road kind of goes behind a service station/shopping complex
and becomes Dishman-Mica Rd. The quilting Bee is a short distance on your
left in a complex with Niko's restaurnt and Luigi's. They are extremely
helpful and friendly there, especially Jackie and Katherine.
Good luck!
Cheryl R
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 11 May 1995 21:56:24 -0500
Subject: In praise of 1/2 speed
I have joined this list quite recently and have enjoyed the
discussion and advice. What luck to have a good sewing machine and
a good discussion group to go with it! :)
Now for my discovery. I have just finished a dress with Richelieu
embroidery on the sleeves. This was my first attempt ever at machine
embroidery, and of course I chose an intricate pattern with many
bars and curves. I had never used the half speed setting on my
Bernina 1030 before, but this time decided to see what difference it
made. And what a difference! The complicated curves on my pattern
required frequent pivoting, and sewing at half speed made it really
easy. The padded satin stitch I used and the bars are smooth and
uniform, nicely rounded in the curvy places and sharp at the points.
Pivoting every few stitches at full speed made for jagged edges,
while satin stitching at half speed made the curves flow smoothly.
I think the usual advice for a nice satin stitch is to stitch as
fast as you can, but in this case I found that stitching my pattern
at "fast half speed" looked a lot nicer.
Long live 1/2 speed! It allowed a complete novice to make a stunning
dress.
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 11 May 1995 15:18:26 -0400
Subject: Re: Short People
Robbi -
Sewing clothes is not for everyone. Growing up overseas, the majority of my
clothes were sewn by my mother. The first winter coat I ever had was sewn by
my mother simply because when you move back to the US from the tropics in
January winter coats are hard to find.
My mother taught both my brother and I how to sew as soon as we were able to
hold a needle and agreed not to stick each other. When I took a home ec
class in junior high, my mother sewed the shirt I was required to make for
me. When I sewed the shirt, ... well let's put it this way, it ended up
being used to polish the car.
To this day, I prefer not to sew clothes if I have a choice. I much prefer
buying my clothes. I can and do occasionally make alterations to my store
bought clothes but that is primarily hemming. Because of my height (5'1"), I
will occasionally break down every few years and make some skirts but that is
only after trying them on in the store. I figure that if I am going to have
enough fabric left over from shortening a skirt to make another one I should
just make one.
Clothing construction is not for everyone. I live close enough to my mother
that I can generally get her to sew any clothes that need machine sewing.
She prefers her old Singer for this. In exchange, I do all of her hand work
and anything that she wants done that requires the bells and whistles of my
Bernina.
Mia
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 12 May 1995 07:36:26 EST
Subject: zip foot
I don't think the zipper foot is terrible. I think most of us are still
in the old paradigm from junior-high home-ec class where the zipper
foot slid back and forth and your needle stayed in the middle.
If all of us had been "raised" on the bernina foot, I really don't
think we'd be reading about how terrible the foot is.
Now for a question. The invisible zipper people have a set of feet you
can buy to use for applying invisible zippers. Except they don't
fit bernina, unless they fit the adaptor, which I haven't tried.
I have heard that you can use the pintuck foot to apply them.
Has anyone done this? What are the particulars? Please give us a
lesson.
k-
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 12 May 1995 09:51:25 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Bernette iron
Has anyone had trouble with the Bernette iron? I have followed the
directions for cleaning and still the thing will not spray a fine
mist when I press the pink spray button. Droplets will fall out
instead. The surge of steam is back in working order, however. My
husband is taking it today to our dealer (still under warranty) to
see what can be done.
Any solutions out there?
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 12 May 1995 10:35:45 -0400
Subject: Re: "my" bernina dealer
While I am satisfied with my dealer I freely admit that there are things that
he does that some people do not care for. He is first and formost a
salesman. I shop price and not service and that is what he gives me. Some
dealers give free classes for a year. He doesn't, except for the Bernina
Club. Since I live 2 hours away that is not important to me. I get a good
price from him and take the classes that interest me from a local dealer. I
know his service technician and I make an appointment to see him. He works
on my machine while I wait.
I wait for his sales...right now he is offering 25% off on my total purchase
through May 31. I might get the embroidery machine, retail 1999 less 25%.
I feel that over the years he has given me good service that meets my
needs(it helps that I have been sewing for 25 years)and fits into my
schedule.
CarolP
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 12 May 95 08:36:38 PDT
Subject: RE: historical costuming
I have found the reason the arm holes are tight in old patterns
is they used a gusset. This is a piece of fabric sewn into the
underarm between the sleeve and the body of the shirt.
Orginaly this was one piece(square). When I started sewing I
just left it out and also had tight seams. It all depends on
what the outfit is how much hand sewing I do on it and weather
I put the gussets in. I have 3 growing children plus myself
and my husband to sew for. Needless to say the kids tend to
get all machined sewn clothes. What rendezvous do you attend,
might meet you at one.
-------------------------------------
Name: Sue
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 12 May 1995 16:25:59 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Re: Short People
I got out of the habit of sewing clothes when my old machine began to act
up. Just too much trouble. I've had a 1530 for 2 years and I've made a
vest--otherwise, I quilt and piece. I'm going to try clothes again,
someday...maybe.
Martha
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 12 May 95 13:43:11 -0700
Subject: Zip Foot
I posted previously that the Bernina zipper foot was terrible. I
believe this not because the zipper foot is unlike the older style of
zipper foot, but because it doesn't work well.
The newer style of zipper foot is supposed to ride on top of the
zipper. All very well, but it doesn't work with fat tooth zippers
such as you might use for a jacket; it is miserable when you get to the
pull of the zipper; and it fails utterly to sew piping. In my book,
it's a complete loser, and I don't understand why Bernina sells it.
-- Anne P
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 12 May 1995 17:01:55 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/11/95
I got my latest issue of the Bernina magazine, I am so dissapointed in it.
It doesn't do the Bernina machines justice at all. There was a one page
feature on the stitch designer program, but not much info in it.
I am really thinking about not resubscribing. I get more info from my
dealer~
Roni
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Date: Fri, 12 May 1995 19:07:10 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: "our" bernina dealer
Yep, Karen... that's the one! I drive there from downtown DC, even though G
Street in Rockville is closer. I think the service there is superb! ..such
nice people!
Funny thing.. I just received the new flyer
today. I've asked so many times if they were moving, that I had given up!
Have you visited the new store yet?
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Date: Fri, 12 May 1995 21:30:09 -0400
Subject: What Bernina Feet to buy?
I'm just getting back into sewing with a 1230 and a 2000DE Serger. It has
been so enjoyable to read the messages on this board. The only clothes I
will be sewing will be sweatshirt &running suit kinds of things, some simple
kid's stuff and costumes. My main emphasis will be on quilting, crafts and
adding embellishments to existing clothes -- with that in mind, what Bernina
feet for either the sewing machine or the serger do you think will come in
handy? I did get the patchwork and walking foot for the sewing machine. I
have an opportunity to negotiate for a couple more feet because I'm getting
some furniture from the same store. What do you suggest I try for? Also --
I read the negative comments about the Bernina zipper foot - I noticed that
they have a few different kinds of zipper feet -- are they all bad? Many
thanks for your advice.
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Date: Sat, 13 May 1995 00:07:01 -0400
Subject: Machine Applique
Thanks to Harriet and everyone who helped me with my invisible machine
applique. Being a new 1260 owner, the settings you al suggested were right
on but I had to improvise a little. Harriet suggested a #20 foot which I
didn't have. The #1 foot worked *okay* but I finally realized what I was
lacking was view of the applique edge. I took a moment and looked at each
foot I had. The one I tried was the manual buttonhole foot and it worked
GREAT. much easier when you can see where you're going.
Anyway my little project is done and I won't hesitate to do this technique
again.
Thanks, Mary Beth G
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Date: Sat, 13 May 1995 08:39:49 -0500
Subject: Invisible zipper foot
>Now for a question. The invisible zipper people have a set of feet you
>can buy to use for applying invisible zippers. Except they don't
>fit bernina, unless they fit the adaptor, which I haven't tried.
>I have heard that you can use the pintuck foot to apply them.
>Has anyone done this? What are the particulars? Please give us a
>lesson.
I have the YKK invisible zipper foot and a Bernina adaptor I bought
from my dealer. The combination makes the application of invisible
zippers very easy. You just follow the instructions that come with
the foot. The important thing to remember is to iron the zipper coil
away from the tape before you apply it.
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Date: Sat, 13 May 1995 12:28:10 -0400
Subject: Re: "our" bernina dealer
Md sew &vac is my dealer also. I drive 2 hours to get to the store, though
I do most of my business mail order.
I live in Spotsylvania, VA and there are no dealers really close.
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Date: Sat, 13 May 1995 13:11:28 -0400
Subject: Re: Pattern Software
Has anyone tried any of the software for pattern adjusting? For example on
page 13 of the July '95 Threads, there is an advertisement for Fittingly Sew
Patternmaking software. Any stories out there?
Cindy
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Date: Sat, 13 May 1995 21:09:36 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Zip Foot
I never thought about the Bernina zipper foot being good, bad, or
otherwise because it looks like two other zipper feet (different brands
of sewing machines) I have used in the past. In putting in regular skirt
or slacks zippers, I buy a zipper about an inch longer than the
placket opening. I install the zipper with the pull out of the way, then
open the zipper and cut off the extra amount at the top and finish the
top with waistband. When it comes to heavy-duty jacket zippers, I've
never installed one so don't know if they are sold in as wide a variety
of lengths as other types of zippers. I think the problem with a zipper
foot is that it is designed to ride alongside of the zipper chain and,
therefore, has only half as much pressure on the fabric as other feet.
Perhaps it's time to re-think zipper feet, zippers, and their installation.
Myra
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Date: Sun, 14 May 1995 15:57:10 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/13/95
Has anyone used the Bernette machines? I am thinking of getting one for my
godchild who is just starting to quilt. She just needs a basic, plain
machine that can sew a great straight stitch.
Hope everyone had a great Mother's Day.
Roni
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Date: Sun, 14 May 95 16:42:18 EDT
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/13/95
Hi!
I bought my eight-year old daughter (who has taken sewing lessons for
a little over a year, and sewn several outfits for herself) a basic
Bernette (705, I think) She loves having her own machine, and
it has worked well for her. THe only problem is that she wishes
it had a few decorative stitches on it. But the machine has performed
well for her.
Cindy
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Subject: Re: Bernina Feet to buy
Date: Sun, 14 May 1995 10:24:39 +22305931 (CDT)
Hi!
I do alot of embellishing and quilting on my 1020 machine. I recommend the
big foot, the applique foot, cording foot and the quarter inch quilting
foot. I have also used the pin tucking foot on several occasions.
Happy sewing.
Karen
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Date: Sat, 13 May 1995 23:41:58 -0400
Subject: NYC Show purchases
I'd like to say that the only reason I went to the New York City Quilt show
today was to buy some presents for my Bernina but.....
But I did buy it two presents -- the #20 foot that Harriet recommended for
invisible machine applique. I wondered what it would be like -- WOW what a
view of the applique edge this foot will give. I would imagine it will be
handy for other things too.
The other thing I bought was a soft sided case for my 'nina. If I had to
find fault with my wonderful machine it would be: the smallness of the handle
-- painful to pick up that much weight by and the cover which just seems
flimsy and it doesn't attach to the machine. Anyway, I shlep my machine a
lot so I got a FUSCHI color case for it.
As soon as it was paid for, I unpacked my shoulder bag and put all the fabric
I'd gotten AND the #20 foot, don't forget into the lovely pink case.
Very productive day.
Mary Beth G
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Date: Mon, 15 May 1995 00:45:33 -0400
Subject: 1/4 inch seam allowance
I am currently making a quilt to serve as a model for a class I will be
teaching at Prints Charming quilt shop in Long Grove, IL in July. (A little
plug there). I have already made the quilt three times, and it is my design,
but I am paying close attention to what I am doing so I can write my
handouts.
A perfect quarter inch seam allowance is not as important on this quilt as
consistency. So I have decided that whatever settings I start with I have to
use all through the quilt. Accordingly I decided to test my machine.
I took about a six inch square of muslin and folded it in half.
First I tried to see if the #10 foot would give me a quarter inch seam, it
would not. Too bad, you know, a good foot would be one with that vertical
metal guide thing at the far right of the foot, so you could set the needle a
scant 1/4 inch to the left. The #10 foot has the vertical thing centered.
Harriet, tell that to the Bernina people, eh?
Anyway, back to feet I own, I tried the 1/4 foot, with the needle centered,
then back to the regular #1 foot, with the needle at the far right (#9), then
one over (#8), then one more over (#7). Then I took a new Quilter's Rule
rotary ruler, (I have noticed that I have shaved off a bit of my old ruler
over the years) and marked a quarter inch line down the edge of the fabric.
The results of the seam:
1) the number #37 patchwork foot put a seam RIGHT ON the 1/4 inch line.
2) on the 9 setting, the seam was completely to the right. There was no ink
on the thread.
3) at the 8 setting, the thread was on the ink line, just like the #37
setting.
4) the 7 setting put the thread to the left of the ink line.
For piecing I like a "scant" quarter inch, this allow room for the fold of
the fabric, so I will use the 9 (or far right) setting on my 1630. I marked
this sample with the settings, and I am leaving it right near my machine,
because I keep forgetting whether I want the 8 or 9 setting on my 1630. If
you have another machine perhaps you should try this for your settings.
I know this was rambly, and obvious to some, but I hope it has value to
someone.
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 15 May 1995 08:24:45 -0400
Subject: Re: 1/4 inch seam allowance
I for one really enjoyed your test and the results - I feel like I'm
searching for the Holy Grail in my quest to achieve the right 1/4" seam for
my purposes. I don't own the 1630 (which you must with your choices of #7,8,&9
), I have the 1230 with 5 choices. The far right setting with #1 foot seems
too scant for me. I wanted to tell you about a foot I purchased from Nancy's
Notions that seems somewhat like the one you described. It's called an
Edgestitching Foot and has an adjustable plastic guide along the right side
so you can guide your fabric with it and achieve the exact seam you want. The
only problems are that it seems to slip out of adjustment and that it has to
ride under the fabric so works great for sewing two layers together, but when
you have more it gets tangled up. It's only $3.00 so I figured it was worth
the try. It's close, but I'm still searching. Sue M.
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Date: Mon, 15 May 1995 08:42:11 -0500
Subject: Bernina 1080
I am considering buying Bernina 1080. Does anyone own this machine? Do you
like it and have you had any problems with it? This will be my first
computerized machine so I am a little hesitate about how they hold up. I
understand that it is very expensive to replace the inner works of such a
machine.
They want $1,000 for it. Is that a fair price?
thanks, Sarita
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Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/11/95
Date: Mon, 15 May 1995 08:54:46 -0500 (CDT)
Re Dealerships/Community:
I got one free 2-hr lesson with my 1630. Bernina club costs $35/yr.
Classes are $25-$40 (latter is an all day) &get a 20% discount on
anything in store (including feet) relevant to class during class.
Classes are taught by staff &local instructors who get their lessons
at BU. They DO know my name, despite the fact that I'm not in very
often. Generally, I find them nice folks, but I don't have time to
become part of a Bernina community (sniff) so don't really know if
you'd feel that if you took time. Expect you would. Nice folks who
don't look down their noses at women who bring Vikings to classes &
teach with a sense of humor. Lynn
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Date: Mon, 15 May 95 09:53:07 PDT
Subject: Bernina question
I have an old email that says you are doing a Bernina mailing list. I
have a question about my Bernina. I am all of a sudden having a problem
with the straight stitch on my Bernina turning into a gathered stitch.
I have cleaned and oiled the machine, which I try to normally do every
month any way, I tried different bobbins and different threads. I have
changed the need, both new for old and larger instead of smaller. I
have loosened the tension on the tension disc (seems to lessen the
problem, but not eliminate it). Any ideas as to what I am missing?
Many thanks,
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 15 May 1995 10:08:11 -0700 (MST)
Subject: Re: Bernina Feet to Buy - about the 1/4-inch foot
Hi,
I just joined this list, so please excuse me if this is a repeat -
I can get a really accurate 1/4-inch seam using the edge of the
standard (#0) presser foot for my 1080 and moving the needle to
the right one position. There doesn't appear to be a need for the
1/4-inch foot your machine has the five needle positions like this.
Credit where credit is due:
Elizabeth Poole sent me that tip, it works perfectly for me.
Sue
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 15 May 95 17:43:22 EDT
Subject: What foot for BIG cording?
Hello,
I just joined the group and just read my first batch of mail. I am
looking forward to more! Now for my question...
I am trying to put BIG cording into the seam of a decorative pillow,
and have been having a hard time with it. The first foot I went for
was the #12 Bulky Overlock foot, but the cording is too thick to fit
between the feed dogs and the channel in the foot. I tried the
zipper foot, but couldn't get close enough to the cording to do a good
job of hiding the twill tape to which it's attached.
My dealer recommended a leather roller foot (#51 I think). I have
been trying it, but perhaps it takes some getting used to. Do any of
you have a better foot to suggest, or perhaps some technique I am
missing? If I can do this pillow to my satisfaction, I will be making
quite a few more.
Thanks,
Monica W
===========================================================================
Subject: Designer Fabric
Date: Mon, 15 May 1995 16:12:13 MST
In a recent edition of Threads, I saw an ad for designer fabric (e.g. Liz
Claiborne, Jones, etc.) Unfortunately this was a mail order ad and not
available to Canadians. Is there anywhere in the states where designer
fabrics can be purchased; prefer northwestern/southwestern areas. Or a better
alternative is there any mail order organization that Canadians can order
from.
I have a Bernina 1130 and have recently started a pattern drafting class - I'm
now interested in collecting some better fabrics.
Thanks for any help.
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 15 May 1995 21:22:24
Subject: Sewing on beads
I'm having trouble finding a foot to sew on strings of beads. Tried the #11
cordonnet foot, which didn't work too well. Does anyone have the #21
braiding foot? Would that work? Thanks for any suggestions.
Charlene
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Date: Mon, 15 May 1995 23:50:00 -0400
Subject: Bernette Machines
If you want an inexpensive machine, these are probably as good as any on the
market. But they are made in the Far East, not Swtz. Neither are the Bernia
1000 &1010 true Berninas. Bernina realized several years ago that they are
missing lots of the market share by not having a lower-priced group of
machines.
Best advice is to test-sew on any machine you're considering. How does it
feel, sound, perform?
If you look at your B. dealer's machine brochures you can detect the
differences by studying just the housing for the various machines--the true
Berninas with all their famous unique qualities have the same shape heads
and the oscillating shuttlehook. (except for the new 1630, of course). Look
closely at the lower lines . Can you find an 830 or 930 for your child?
Or an 801. That would be a better investment than a new low-line machine.
IMHO.
Sincerely,
Ida T
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Date: Mon, 15 May 1995 23:50:45 -0400
Subject: FavoriteBernina Feet
Favorite Feet
We had a discussion on this several months back. Maybe Sue could guide you
to those .
My most used extra feet are the # 10, 20, 37, 24, 18, &50, the walking
foot, which I have altered by removing the center obstructing bars, as HJH
has taught us.
As former dealer, I have almost all the feet. I sew and quilt a LOT--very
heavy, still. Each B. foot is designed to make a specific task easier for
you, the user...and they do a good job of that.
Ask your dealer for an Accessories Brochure that describes the purpose of
each foot.
I keep my feet handy in the drawer of my table in the little "trays" that the
original ones are packed in , in your case, plus the extras that are/were
sold in the portable accessory box a few yrs. ago--don't know if they still
sell those. A box or tray that will keep them separate and handy is how I
have found to stay better organized. Someone in this group recently asked
about how to keep the feet.
Enjoy! Ida T
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Date: Tue, 16 May 1995 01:23:26 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina 1080
I have as 1080 and have been quite pleased with it. I paid about 1000 for it
and consider that a fair price. I have not been happy with the stitch hough,
bobbin thread looks like a slight zig zag. I was told to have the dealer
adjust it, but hate to have it gone. I do have a 20 year old elna that still
works like a charm. Hate to part with it.
Sew on the machine you are buying and check the stitch.
Kit
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 15 May 95 22:36:04 -0700
Subject: What foot for BIG cording??
Big cording, eh?
Here's where the generic old-style zipper foot mounted on the 'Nina
adapter comes in handy. You can just adjust the zipper foot to skim
along the big cording.
-- Anne P
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 16 May 1995 08:44:23 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Zip Foot
HI!
I am an invisible zipper foot fan. I have made a lot of "formal
dresses" for my daughter while she was in college and have continued to
do so. The invisible zipper has no stitching on the outside of the
dress. It really does make the fit and look very professional. I have a
1230 and use the "long extension" for the attached invisible foot. There
is a Bernina "short" extension also so be careful. The short extension
works with other attachments. When looking at the post of the extension,
the long extension has a deep slash in the metal. That is Bernina's code
for differentiating the two.
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 16 May 1995 08:49:39 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: "my" bernina dealer
Dear Everybody,
I liked the way Carol qualified her statements on why she likes her
dealer. I think that is very helpful. To hear that this person is good
or this person is bad is very general and really not helpful. If I know
that I want the continuous service and a lot of it then I need to be
looking for a dealer that offers this. Thanks Carol for giving us info
on why you like your dealer.
Jacque
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 16 May 1995 09:04:11 EST
Subject: Bernina Information
Carol was interested in getting an embroidery machine. I stopped at
Maryland Sew and Vac yesterday and got the scoop.
First, the shop told me any machine made in Switzerland gets to wear
the Bernina name, all others go by Bernette.
Bernette Deco 500:
Regular price $1999
Comes with no cards
with 25% off coupon: 1499 + $100 for perfered customer service plan
= $1599
Current Sale price $1699
price of cards $100 each
Babylock Espree
Regular price 2099
comes with 2 cards
with 25% off coupon: 1574 +100 for service plan
= 1674
current sales price $1599
Both current sales prices include the service plan
add $200 to the deco 500 for the cards you get with the espree.
for more info, call 301-856-7200
hope this helps,
k-
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 16 May 1995 09:34:15 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: What foot for BIG cording??
To Monica: I regularly watch the PBS show called "Sewing Today" which
features the latest in Bernina machines. The sewing expert, a man, has
used a foot--wish I knew the name or number--which features a small wheel
set at an angle. The wheel rolls against the cording, keeping it in
place as you stitch. Would this be the same as #51, or another one? The
program mentioned above has featured many lessons concerning home
decorating items.
Myra
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Date: Tue, 16 May 95 11:56:03 EDT
Subject: Model 1630
I have a Bernina 1630, and I'm wondering if other owners are disappointed
with theirs. I revered the Bernina name and bought it hastily as soon as
it came out. My main gripe is lack of many usable satin stitch designs.
You'd think a machine that expensive would have beautiful stitch design.
It certainly doesn't cater to the American tastes and the little outline
designs on the extra keys are laughable. My machine sews well and has a
good satin stitch, but I am truly disappointed with Bernina for not keeping
up with technology. The Viking 1+ has lovely designs which are executed
beartifully. New Home (Jenome) is coming out with a fantastic (so I've
heard) machine in the late summer or early fall. I am not impressed with
the new Bernina embroidery only machine. All those, i.e., Brother,
Esante, &Bernina are basically the same. The textures of the stitches are
not nearly as nice as Viking and New Home. Discussion?
Ruth B
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Date: Tue, 16 May 1995 18:34:11 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/14/95
Thanks for the info about the Bernette. Guess I'd better get it soon before
the price goes up in June.
Roni
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 16 May 1995 19:51:49 MST
Subject: RE: Bernina Information
Hi all...the Bernette Deco machine is made by Brother (honest)...the
difference is that the Bernette machine comes with some exclusive
Bernina designs and in the fall I understand that the Beatrix Potter
designs will be available exclusively to Bernina....(as well as some
others but I stopped paying attention at that point). I have seen
the Deco demonstrated and it is fun to watch...but for me anyway, it's
usefulness especially at those prices, is nil. This information came
from our last meeting of Bernina Club.
Sandra
===========================================================================
Subject: Re: Sewing on Beads
Date: Tue, 16 May 95 21:35:20 PDT
Hi;
I just took a machine embroidery class and the teachear did used the #21
foot to sew on the pre strung beeds. Worked great. :0}
--
Jean P
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 17 May 95 08:00:31 EDT
Subject: Re: What foot for BIG cording??
> Date: Tue, 16 May 1995 09:34:15 -0400 (EDT)
> Subject: Re: What foot for BIG cording??
>
> To Monica: I regularly watch the PBS show called "Sewing Today" which
> features the latest in Bernina machines. The sewing expert, a man, has
> used a foot--wish I knew the name or number--which features a small wheel
> set at an angle. The wheel rolls against the cording, keeping it in
> place as you stitch. Would this be the same as #51, or another one?
Yes, that is a good description of #51. I have been trying it on a sample
and am having a hard time judging how close to the cording to sew.
Thanks for the tip about "Sewing Today", I will watch for it.
Monica
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 17 May 1995 08:45:26 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Model 1630
HI!
I agree with you that for the price the New Home 8000 is an
outstanding embroidery machines. E-machines are so very expensive!!! I
know because I priced them and the lower price range is around $8000.00!
Janome puts a really good machine with professional designs in a person's
home for $3299. (full price). Besides, the New Home is also a regular
sewing machine with 116 stitches. BUT... there is always a BUT in life...
the New Home does NOT have self adjusting tension! Self adjusting tension
is worth its weight in gold. That is why everyone is crazy about how a
Bernina sews. It will go from silk to 10 layer of denim material. I
sell both machines and really love the New Home 8000 but I bought a
Bernina 1230 because of its sewing ability. Now the ideal is to have
both machines. I am saving for it!! I'd rather drive an old car and
have a great sewing machine.....my personal preference. I, too, am
waiting to see the new New Home that is suppose to be in the stores this
summer. I'm not sure...I think this model will be called the 9000.
From working with these machines, I think the embroidery quality of the
New Home 8000 can't be beat. The Bernina Deco does a nice stitch but all
designs are basketweave stitches. The New Home can sew in more than one
direction. For quilting and sewing, Bernina is still tops in my book.
Thanks for listening........Jacque
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 17 May 1995 10:04:27 -0400
Subject: Re: Model 1630
>Subject: Model 1630
>
>I have a Bernina 1630,
>designs on the extra keys are laughable. My machine sews well and has a
>good satin stitch, but I am truly disappointed with Bernina for not keeping
>up with technology.
The Viking 1+ has lovely designs which are executed
>beartifully. New Home (Jenome) is coming out with a fantastic (so I've
>heard) machine in the late summer or early fall. I am not impressed with
>the new Bernina embroidery only machine. All those, i.e., Brother,
>Esante, &Bernina are basically the same. The textures of the stitches are
>not nearly as nice as Viking and New Home. Discussion?
Ruth,
I too was disappointed with the quality of the 1630. Hopefully the next
generation of the machine will improve the embroidery capablities demonstrably.
Be careful though when cheering on the Viking 1 - the first shipments of
that machine all had major board problems. There are all lot of people out
their with sad tales to tell.
You are right about the new embroidery machines; They are all the same.
They are all manufacturered by Jenome/ New Home and repackaged - new
housing / sometimes extra features.
The Jenome 9000 due out soon, is currently the leader in the
embroidery/sewing machine product lines.
Regards,
Caroline
"My software never has bugs. It just develops random features."
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 17 May 1995 10:03:09 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Foot w/roller - cording
I searched my flier of Bernina feet and found #55 Leather Roller Foot
may be the one used on the tv series when large cording was being
attached. That is the only foot with a wheel that I found listed.
#51 Roller Foot has a horizontal roller in the toe in front of the
needle hole.
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 17 May 1995 08:54:53 MST
Subject: Re: Sewing on Beads
The #12 also works very satisfactorily for sewing on beads...
Sandra
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 17 May 1995 08:54:16 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Re: Bernina 1080
I believe the reason the bobbin thread appears to have a slight z-z is
that the 1080 does not have the Bernina "oscillating hook" system.
The next model up, 1090, does have this. That, along with the knee lift
&more powerful motor, is why I wnt for the 1090.
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 17 May 1995 12:37:22 -0400
Subject: 1630 Walking Foot
Has anyone tried altering the new walking foot as Harriet Hargrave has
suggested in the past? I wondered if the extra width between the toes would
cause any problems during use.
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 17 May 1995 17:54:38 -0400
Subject: Re: Sewing on Beads
Dear Charlene,
I use the #12 foot to sew on beads. It is called the Tricot foot. There is
a large groove in the bottom that the beads will ride very easily. Use
monofilament thread and a zig zag, blind hem, or universal stitch. Adjust
the width of the stitch to sew over beads.
This foot is also great for piping, and soutache braid.
Hope this helps.
Sue
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 17 May 1995 18:50:26 -0400
Subject: Re: Sewing on Beads
Hi:
For sewing on beads you might also try foot 12, the bulky overlock foot. It
has a tunnel under the foot that makes it perfect for sewing over beads. It
also makes gorgeous piping up to 1/4 inch in size, but anything fatter than
that you'll have to switch to a different foot.
Barb M
===========================================================================
Date: 17 May 95 21:10:47 EDT
Subject: Model 1630
I couldn't agree more. I thought my machine was defective when I first tried
the satin stitches...but later discovered it was working "fine". Does the
update help (i.e. the one you have to turn your machine back in for??) Sharon
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 17 May 1995 21:36:50 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: What foot for BIG cording??
The #51 foot is the leather Roller foot. In order to get an accurate
stitch move your needle as close to the roller as possible. I just
learned this from Agnes Mercik of Bernina, who writes a great many of the
Footsteps &footworks and other Bernina Pubs. It is also really nice for
outlining a printed design rather than using free motion. It is much
nicer and neater. Of course my free motion is something to be desired
anyway. I just love this Bernina group.( a recent joinee am I).
Robin
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 17 May 1995 22:42:04 -0400
Subject: Re:Sarita, Bernina 1080
The 1080 is the best sewing machine I've ever had. I know I keep harping on
it ... enough computerization to do lots of stuff, but not so much it
confuses a road kill like me. It is accurate, sews well and precisely, I
like its rhythms and, in short, could not ask for more and do not plan to
upgrade. Have had it since 11/93 and have not had a speck of trouble with
it.
--Addy
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 17 May 1995 23:50:44 -0400
Subject: Deco machines
My understanding is that all those embroidery machines can use each other's
cards. I know that Mary McManus has been buying Viking cards for her Bernina.
Regarding the post about Bernina's lack of satin stitch designs. I bought a
1630, knowing that the stitch selection is limited. But I thought of it like
this, the Bernina is like a Volvo, it's safe, it runs very well, it's well
made, it's kind of boring. I was looking at the Pfaff, I thought of those
like a Corvette, they are light, they go fast, I think of them as having lots
of bells and whistles. I went for the Volvo this time....at least sewing
machine wise. I love the knee lever, and the way you can tap the foot pedal
once to move the needle up or down. I can chain piece really fast by stopping
with the needle down, raising the foot a tad, and sticking the next piece
under the foot, right against the needle. Then when I am done I can lift the
foot and the needle and whip the pieces out. I taught a class, and used the
Pfaff in class (my Bernina is not leaving the sewing room, let alone the
house, it is holding the second floor down during tornado season). I sorely
missed the knee lever and pedal control. Also the Pfaff seemed loosey goosey,
but that could be because it's old. I should sit down and sew at an old
Bernina and see how I feel.
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 18 May 95 02:10:58 EDT
Subject: Invisible zippers
I have been encouraged to read that many of the rest of you also "swear by"
invisible zippers. I really like the look and don't have much trouble with
the basic application.
However, I have a silly question that I have never been able to solve on my
own. What do *you* do to sew the seam together up close to the bottom edge
of the zipper? I *always* end up with a little bit (up to 1/2") where I
can't sew the seam close enough together at the bottom and, thus have a gap.
Hand sewing the last bit never looks quite right.
I'm not sure I'm explaining it well; if not, let me know and I'll try again
to re-word the question. However, it might strike a chord with one of you
and you might have the perfect solution. I'll shut up for now and watch for
answers.
Thanks!
==anita==
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 18 May 95 06:22:11 EDT
Subject: 1230
Thanks for the reply. You know, I'd really like to have either a 1260
(does buttonholes with both beads sewn in the same direction) or a 1530 &
an embroidery machine -- maybe the new New Home. My husband's complaint
(he's a graphic artist/advertising &pr person) is the sameness of the
stitch texture. I agree. I too would rather drive an old car and have a
great sewing machine, or maybe two machines &a serger &a press, etc.,
etc.
I've even thought about trading in my 1630 on one of the above models. I
do have a lot invested in the big feet for the 1630. I really miss the
smaller format &oscillating bobbin system. I hope you get the machine(s)
of your dreams. Do you use a serger? What kind?
Ruth B
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 18 May 95 06:28:28 EDT
Subject: Re: Model 1630
The update helps and so does using a straight stitch plate. However, I
still wish I had a 1260 or 1530.
Ruth B
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 18 May 1995 08:47:21 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: 1230
HI!
I have a Bernette 334DS and I really love it! Once you start sewing
with one you will wonder how you ever survived without one. I do dresses
also and I sew around the lining before assembly so I have no fraying. I
do that on all my clothes so when I wash them there is no fraying. I
also make napkins for myself and for gifts. I put two pieces of cloth
together(wrong sides in) and do a rolled hem around them using wooly
nylon on the Blue looper and it really looks great. I sew the two pieces
of fabric together first by doing a decorative stitch diagonally across
the napkin.
I would make my next purchase a surger since you have a good sewing
machine. BUT you really need to take the lessons AND repeat them when
necessary. It is a different way of sewing so it does not matter how
many years a person has been sewing...everyone needs lessons. In time
you will become comfortable with threading it. It is a must to get a
machine the has a "self-threading" lower looper (red on bernina). I
started off selling and swearing at the machines and really love the self
treading lower looper. It takes all the stress out of rethreading the
machine. All the horror stories one hears is about the older models of
all brands of sergers that did not have a self-threading lower looper.
What ever brand you buy be sure the gears are metal. The whole
principle of sergers is that the stitches are based on correct tension.
The cheaper models have a plastic type gear and the grooves wear down and
the tension slips and it is just a frustrating headache.
Happy sewing..........Jacque
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 18 May 95 08:52:53 EDT
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/15/95
Just another note on IMHO is the perfect quarter inch when using the 1130--
I use the walking foot and move the needle to the first position to the
right. It works for me -- and hope it helps another. Have a good day!
from Phyllis in Stow and Kent where it is a very drippy rainy ucky day --
but true to OH, give us a few hrs and it will change.
===========================================================================
Subject: new serger
Date: Thu, 18 May 95 8:58:47 EDT
what will the new serger be called? I was told to expect it at my dealer's
in July. What makes it so special?
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 18 May 1995 09:15:04 -0500
Subject: Re: Model 1630
Mu 1630 is finally back from the "up-grade" doctors! I haven't gone to pick it
up yet, (my dealer is 60 miles away) so I don't know if the upgrade solved any
problems or created new one. I too am pretty disappointed in this model. It
was a dream to own a bernina, and once I decided the time was right, I went for
the top of the line, not realizing that the very things that make berninas so
special had been changed in this model. Oh, well. I really love the machine
and have had lots of fun playing...christening dresses, baby clothes, toys etc.,
but I would have been just as happy, (and wealthier) with the 1080. I used to
have a VIKING but could not find a dealer in my area. (centeral texas). I
checked on bernina dealers, and opted for the one in the small town instead of
the city... another mistake. Lets hope that I can figure out the upgrade stuff
with no help from anyone but you lovely folks, cause there will be no support
from my dealer...(who is friendly, knows my name, but not much more) Thanks for
being there. I'll let you know when I get my machine up and going.
Suzi
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 18 May 1995 09:43:30 +0500
Subject: Presser feet
I have joined the viking club (I had a 1959 zig zag viking until
I bought my 1630). I noticed that they put in a bulk order for
presser feet. I was wondering if anyone in the Bernina club
had tried that or knew where could purchase feet at a discount.
My dealer has a 20% off twice a year but maybe a bulk perchase
could get even more off?
Thanks Esther
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 18 May 95 09:31:38 EDT
Subject: Re: Deco Machines
As far as I know, all top-of-the-line or near the top machines have
"needle-down" function. Also, I heard a rumour that the upcoming New Home
will have a knee lever. The time in which Bernina could claim exclusive
rights to that feature has run out. As to Bernina using a Viking card,
correct me if I'm wrong, but it can't be done. However, cards are
interchangable for the Pacesetter &it's embrod. only buddy, the Esante &
its buddy, and the Bernette Deco.
Ruth B
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 18 May 1995 10:32:03 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina 1080
As stated in a previous post:
>> I believe the reason the bobbin thread appears to have a slight z-z is
that the 1080 does not have the Bernina oscillating hook" system. <<
This is not a true statement. The only Bernina machines with rotary hook
systems are the 1000, 1001 and the 1630. So, yes, your 1080 *does* have an
oscillating hook. If you don't feel that your stitch is what you expect,
please take it to your dealer and I think a simple adjustment can be made.
Oh, yeah, just in case you are a Bernette machine owner.....they have
oscillating hooks also. It is my understanding that they may not be as well
crafted/pollished as the Bernina hooks, but there is a BIG difference in
machine prices, too.
===========================================================================
Subject: Bernina Sergers
Date: Thu, 18 May 1995 09:39:20 MST
Any comments on the various models of Bernina Sergers. I'm currently
considering buying one - this would be my first as I don't own one now. What
should I look for? Differential Feed - is this necessary?
===========================================================================
Date: 18 May 1995 08:46:08 MDT
Subject: Bernette Machines
Does the same apply to their sergers, i.e. Bernettes are not swiss made?
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 18 May 1995 12:34:01 -0400
Subject: Correction on Deco cards
Robbi said that I have been buying Viking cards for my Bernette Deco. They
are not Viking; they are Brother cards because the Bernette Deco 500
embroidery machine is made by Brother. But with the scanner, you can scan any
design within the size limitations and that is what I planned to do the most.
I love the machine and disagree with those who say it has poor stitch
quality. Go check it out at your Bernina dealer and see what you think.
But before I can get to my magnum opus on the Deco (my train shirt), I have
to get a challenge quilt done by June 1. And I'm afraid the embroidery
machine isn't going to help me on that one, but the 1530 will.
Mary M
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 18 May 1995 09:15:26 -0500
Subject: Bernina's to class
wrote that her Bernina does not leave the house. Does it hurt Bernina's
(especially computerized ones) to be moved and hauled around to classes
etc.? Or are they too heavy? I want to take classes when I get my new
Bernina. Do you take an old machine to class? How do other people handle
this?
Thanks, Sarita
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 18 May 1995 19:55:27 -0400
Subject: Re: Cording
Do you know what foot you can use for cording larger than 1/4 " without using
foot #51 Thaks Jodie
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 18 May 1995 22:00:24
Subject: Re: Bernina's to Class
I'm having a problem lugging my 1630 to class too, weight-wise. Am
considering buying a lighter, more compact machine but don't like the
idea of buying used. I'm looking at an Omega Sew 'N' Go (also known as
the Babylock 2300 Quilt &Craft in the U.S.) but wonder if I'd be happy with
the very limited features. Anyone know anything about that machine, or
have other suggestions?
Charlene
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 18 May 1995 13:53:26 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Pattern Drafting software
On one of the two sewing related lists I "read" someone asked about
pattern drafting software. Hope I have the right list.
I have Dress Shop 1 and 2. It is not a CAD program but dependant on
drafted patterns supplied with the package. So any changes to the
pattern are done to the printed pattern rather than in the program, as
far as I have been able to determine. The required measurements are
impossible to get accurately if one has no really good friend who is
willing to work with you in your underwear for two or three hours. I
have also had trouble getting both sections of a pattern to come out to
the same length even if I put in standard measurements and not my own.
When I bought the original package, it came without some of the
patterns. They kept promising delivery of the missing links in six
weeks, in two months, etc. for months and months. I hate it when a
software company starts selling its product before it is finished. I can
understand how they might need funding for development, but I should be
told I am making a venture capitol loan upfront.
The program is sold in sections, tops, bottoms, jackets, etc. or as a
total package for about $139. Surplus Software has the earlier version
for $19.95 if someone would like to try the program with
out a full investment. Their number is 800-753-7877.
I have also used the demo for Fittingly Sew. It seems to be more what I
would have liked to have, a sewing related CAD program. One can pull a
seam line on the supplied patterns with the mouse to distort it any way
desired. But after spending the money on one program I do not like, I
am reluctant to take a chance with another.
Now the disclaimer, I am not associated with any of these companies.
Judy P
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 19 May 1995 06:26:45 -0400
Subject: Re: 334ds
I have had the 334ds serger for four years and it has been a workhorse. Even
though it does not have automatic tension adjustment setting the tension is
no problem. It is like the energizer bunny, it keeps going and going....
Carol
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 19 May 1995 06:32:09 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina sergers
The differential feed is one feature I would not want to do without. It is
particularly usefull sewing knits, so the seams don't stretch. I really like
my 334ds. While it is not fancy it has been easy to use...the tension is not
a problem...and when I do thread it "from scratch" the automatic threader for
the lower looper makes it a breeze.
It should be a lot less expensive than the top of the line but it is still a
heavy duty machine. IMHO (not based on experience) I would stay away from
the light weight fun locks...they seem a little flimsy
Carol
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 19 May 95 07:15:43 EDT
Subject: Re: Bernina's to Class
I took my 1130 and have taken my 1630 to many classes with no problem.
Yes, they are heavy -- get some sort of cart. Make SURE that the machine
is secure &won't topple. In the car, make sure that it is wedged in &
won't move around. I'll be fine!
Ruth B
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 19 May 95 07:27:35 EDT
Subject: Double-needle stitching
I like to use double-needle stitching for hemming knits. The stitch
doesn't look right when I do it on the 1630 using the settings &tension I
used on the 1130. Also, do you put both threads in the same tension disk
or one in each disk? I've heard it both ways. Help!
Ruth B
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 19 May 1995 09:13:34 -0400
That's why it isn't leaving the house again. Unless it needs cleaning. When I
brought it home I lifted the Bernina in one arm, and my Pfaff in the other.
They both weighed about the same, out of the case. But then you add the foot
control, the knee lever, the metal work surface (if you have one) and the
case, and the thing weighs about forty pounds. (I didn't weigh it, I am
guessing here).
I suppose I would take it somewhere if I was taking a class that depended on
my Bernina. It's not impossible, just annoying.
Robbi
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 19 May 1995 09:59:04 EST
Subject: taking you "baby" to class
I bought a $10 luggage cart at Walmart to take my 'nina to classes.
Works great.
k-
===========================================================================
Subject: Re: 1230
Date: Fri, 19 May 95 07:37:00 PDT
Thanks for the info on the serger. After getting a NEW GOOD SEWING MACHINE
that will be my next purchase.
JCS
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 19 May 95 08:48:42 -0600
Subject: Taking 'ninas to class
I just thought I would share a tip that my mother-in-law uses. She
uses a wheeled luggage carrier to take her machine around with her.
All she has to do is lift it from the car to the carrier, and then
from the carrier to the table where she is taking her class. It works
great for her (especially since she slipped on the ice 2 years ago and
broke her leg and arm and dislocated her shoulder - she still doesn't
have full range of motion with that shoulder). I've been wanting to
try this myself, but haven't taken the time to go get a luggage
carrier! (BTW, she found her carrier in a garage sale for a dollar!)
Have a great weekend everyone! Happy sewing!
Kari
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 19 May 1995 7:51:15 -0700 (MST)
Subject: RE: Bernina's to Class
Hi Sarita,
I have a 1080 and the machine isn't heavy at all. Furthermore,it has
a handle built into the top so that it's real easy to carry around.
The 1080 has a (pretty cheap) white soft plastic cover that slips over
the machine and has pockets for carrying the foot pedal, manual, etc. The
handle is really quite comfortable. Other machines I've seen at the classes
have a hard plastic case with a molded handle.
My dealer included three *required* classes with the machine - you had
to take the classes within 90 days or so for the warranty to kick in. They
covered threading, maintenance, simple computer stuff, etc. So you had to
bring your machine, and it was real easy.
I don't think the machine is fragile at all - it's not like there's a
disk or something in there to go out of alignment. Moving it around
won't hurt it any (as long as you don't drop it or bang it into stuff.)
Sue
===========================================================================
Date: 19 May 1995 08:55:08 MDT
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/15/95
Thanks for the suggestion, I also have an 1130 and I'll try it. In the past
I've just placed a piece of masking tape on the plate at the 1/4 inch mark
from the centre needle position.
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 19 May 1995 11:33:04 EST
Subject: Double needle
>>I like to use double-needle stitching for hemming knits. The stitch
doesn't look right when I do it on the 1630 using the settings &tension I
used on the 1130. Also, do you put both threads in the same tension disk
or one in each disk? I've heard it both ways. Help!<<
On my 1010 I put one thread in each disk. The right disk is the more
sensitive and therefore, you should put your monofilament nylon
on the right side when you quilt.
k-
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 19 May 1995 09:36:28 MST
Subject: Re: Bernina Sergers
Hi all....Have to defend the funlocks...I have a 004D (the D means it
has differential feed)...it is not flimsy...and I have serged tons
of stuff in every fabric weight with it....and it has never let me down....
just my .02 worth
Sandra
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 19 May 1995 12:34:56 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Bernina's to Class
I purchased a lightweight machine (not a Featherweight) for taking to
classes. It's okay, but it's not a Bernina, and I sure can notice the
difference. When I was trying out machines, I had to keep reminding
myself that (1) this was for taking to classes only and (2) it will never
sew as well or have all the nifty accessories that my Bernina has. I took
it to the Williamsburg show and did some piecing with it and it worked
out okay. I guess the best thing about it was that I wasn't worrying
about it getting banged up or stolen or having some awful thing happen to
it. Since I really never expect to do excellent work in a class (it's
more of a learning experience), and I'm not doing anything like machine
quilting, just simple piecing, a low end machine works okay.
Cathy
===========================================================================
Subject: taking 'ninas to class
Date: Fri, 19 May 1995 12:42:29 EDT
Another tip to share: not mine, but from a friend, shop owner
and great teacher in VA--Carol Britt. In addition to the
luggage cart, Carol has a piece of plywood (maybe something a
bit more stable--but it appears to be plywood) on the bottom of
the metal rack--giving just an extra bit of stability to our
'ninas.
venitta
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 19 May 1995 12:57:14 -0400
Subject: Re: cording
The preferred foot to use when cording with cord larger than 1/4" such as the
fat decorator cording is the leather roller foor #55.
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 19 May 95 12:29:07 EDT
Subject: Re: Taking 'ninas to class
I would like to express my warning about using luggage carriers for
transporting your sewing machines. I used one until my machine slipped off
the carrier, &down several steps. I cost me over $100. to get it fixed, &
3 wks of sewing withdrawal symptoms before I got my machine back. Since
then, I have met other people who have had bad experiences with luggage
carriers. They are not always stable.
Since that time, I invested in a soft cover carrier that I purchased from
Nancy's notions for under $20. which distributes the weight better, &has
strong (but comfortable) handles, &a collapsable cart.
I found the cart in a boating store. It has 4 wheels, &is made of the
same plastic molded sides that you see transporting milk cartons. The cart
folds flat, &the handle is removable so it's easy to get in &out of the
car. It's no bigger than a child's red wagon, but it has higher sides so
everything can safely fit in it (machine, fabric &accessories). I no
longer feel like a pack mule going to class, &I don't worry about dropping
or forgetting things.
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 19 May 1995 13:31:56 -0500
Subject: Bernina's to class
Would my Singer usually work in a class? I haven't bought my Bernina yet,
but I think I am going to be a little protective of it, at least for
awhile. I am trying not to think too much about the cost, but what a good
machine I will be getting and how long I probably will have it. (I am now
considering the 1090 after getting bits of information from those of you
who have this model)
Sarita
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 19 May 1995 15:40:50 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Bernina sergers
According to what I've read (and I'm shopping around for a serger also),
differential feed is desirable. Its purpose is to "prevent a wobbly edge
when sewing across the grain of stretchy knits and to prevent puckers
when sewing slippery fabrics."* I have a very old serger and know well
how it acts up on thin fabrics. I have to put a strip of backing paper
in order to sew certain things and it's scarcely worth it. I believe
having a differential feed will make your machine much more versatile.
*Quotation from an article by Carol Adney in THREADS Mag, April/May 1992.
You don't necessarily have to spend more money to get differential feed,
but you may have to spend more to get lessons and the service necessary
to make your serger completely usable.
Myra
===========================================================================
Date: 19 May 1995 13:33:13 MDT
Subject: Re: Bernina Sergers
Thanks Sandra - I'm actually renting a funlock next week - can't remember
the model but it does have differential feed. I really want to buy the
334DS but its 1200 dollars here versus 900 for a funlock. If the funlock
works for me that's the one I'll get but I'm going to shop around.
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 19 May 1995 21:05:58 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernette Machines
That's right about the names--the sergers are made in the Far East--Japan, I
think.
I think the 334DS is a wonderful model--very easy to use and to change
functions.
Ida T
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 19 May 1995 22:14:50 -0400
Subject: Re: Pattern Drafting Software
There are some good reviews of all sorts of pattern drafting software in a
publication I receive called,"Sew Up a Storm." This is a newsletter for
sewing entrepreneurs. There has been three articles published in a
continuing series about different pattern drafting software and I think if I
am not mistaken they are avaible as reprints. The articles are very detailed
and informative. The Newsletter is $20.00/year and the address is Sew Storm
Publishing, 944 Sutton Road, Cincinnati, OH 45230-3581. Phone :
513-232-5403. Sew Up a Storm is a great source of information for the
sewing professional. There are book reviews, articles by women who sew for a
living, and there also has been a guest series by Kenneth King. I enjoy my
issues and look foward to receiving them.
This is a testimonal and only my opinion. I am not employed by SewStorm
Publishing.
I also bought Dress Shop 2.0 and still haven't gotten all the measurements
in. I have made a blouse from it with good results, but have not attempted
pants. (And that is why I bought it in the first place) By the way I
purchased the software before subscribing to the above mentioned newsletter.
I have been only sewing for about 3 years and bought my first Bernina about
2 years ago. I have a 2000DE serger and a 1630.(Traded the 1530 up.) Last
fall I bought a 930 and think I made another very good investment. I really
like all of the machines. I use all of them when I sew as each has its place
in the way I sew. Sometimes I do wish that I had bought a 1230 and saved my
pennies for the DECO machine, but I am generally happy. I sure do enjoy
reading this newletter. I have a great dealer, but my work schedule prevents
me from visiting there to ask questions or take classes, this newsletter has
been a great source of information.
Rici T
===========================================================================
Date: Sat, 20 May 1995 00:05:11 -0400
Subject: Bernina
I take my 1530 to class at least once a week (sometimes more often) and have
not had any trouble with computer/sewing problems.
I also took it to northern California (about 500 miles from my home in
S.Calif) by small pickup and had no trouble with it. I made sure it was
covered with a tarp so sun did not shine directly on it.
Is it heavy!!! I bought a luggage carrier (?) for it and now don't have to
worry how far from the front door I park. (except in the rain, of course).
I looked for another Bernina to buy that would be lighter, but the woman
showing them said that they are all about the same weight since I don't want
to do without the knee lift.
===========================================================================
Date: Sat, 20 May 1995 10:46:00 -0400
Subject: Bernina's to class
Sarita wrote with questions re taking your Bernina out on walks..
I cannot imagine it would be harmful to take your machine out -- to the
machine anyway. Normal precautions of safe transport etc are appropriate.
Falling, hot cars and theft are hazards to all sewing machines. I sometimes
don't take my Featherweight places, more out of fear of it leaving under
someone else's power.
I did get that soft sided carrying case to lug my 1260 around -- the machine
IS heavy and the handle is TOO small. The soft straps of the case make a big
difference and the whole thing should make it easier to stow and carry it.
Will work better on a cart too I think. I take my machine to quilt meetings,
work parties -- even on our yearly weeklong dance camp vacation. (I was
sewing on my Featherweight at camp when Hurricane Bob hit a few years ago!)
As they say -- don't leave home without it!
Mary Beth
===========================================================================
Date: Sat, 20 May 1995 13:20:34 -0400
Subject: Heavy machines
Someone suggested a cart. The carrying into the store is not the problem,
it's carrying it up and down the stairs of my house that I find so annoying.
===========================================================================
Date: Sat, 20 May 1995 12:29:57 -0500
Subject: Re: Invisible zipper
>own. What do *you* do to sew the seam together up close to the bottom edge
>of the zipper? I *always* end up with a little bit (up to 1/2") where I
>can't sew the seam close enough together at the bottom and, thus have a gap.
>Hand sewing the last bit never looks quite right.
I usually sew the seam in two parts: I use my regular presser foot
(#0, #13 or whatever is appropriate) up to 1 inch or so from
the bottom of the zipper, then finish the seam with the #4 zipper
foot with the needle in the far right or left position.
This method is a little awkward, perhaps somebody will have a better
idea.
===========================================================================
Date: Sat, 20 May 1995 17:13:15 -0400
Subject: New Bernina serger
I was at Libertyville Sewing Center, in Illinois today, and Rick, the owner,
showed me the brand new serger so I could tell you about it. I also told him
to go ahead and opinionate on sergers and I would pass it on.
The new serger, the 2000dce (actually I am not sure of the exact initials)
lists for $1900. It does a cover stitch, which gives you a double hem on top,
and a zig zag on the bottom. Very nice. (If you have $1900)
Rick says he recommends the funlocks, but that the 334ds is a heavier machine
and more of a workhorse.
I haven't noticed many people saying anything about the 2000 series of
sergers.
===========================================================================
Date: Sat, 20 May 1995 19:50:58 -0400
Subject: Heavy Equipment
Thanks for all the good suggestions on moving my 1630 around. Obviously I
have been taking the wrong approach. I have been using MEN to do this for
me when a luggage cart would do the same thing and be a lot less expensive.
It's easy enough to pay a bellhop, it's the men in my life that create the
problem. Three sons and a husband have to be paid off in bigger things
than tips. I have to take all the grief on why in the heck I'm taking all
this stuff with me, when and where did I get it, what did it cost, etc.???
So not only do I have to listen to them, I have to "pay-back" for doing me
the favor of lugging it around which eats into my fabric budget!
===========================================================================
Date: Sat, 20 May 1995 21:17:15 -0400
Subject: Upgrading from Bernina 1080
I AM A NOVICE and six months ago I bought a 1080 with the intention of using
the stores trade up policy before the year experation. I am going to trade
up as soon as I can decide, without confusion, which model I want.
Originally I was thinking about going to the 1630, but now I am not so sure
because of the disappointing comments about the machine here at the Bernina
Club. I am sorry to say I neglected to write down the 1630 return serial
numbers, could someone please let me know what they are, just in case I still
decide to go with the 1630......?
About the 1630, someone here mentioned her disappointment in the lack of many
usable satin stitch designs. I don't exactly know how the scanner and
software works, but I suspect if I go that route I wouldn't have a problem
with stitch designs. Right? What kind of investment are we talking about
here including the "big feet"? BTW, what are the big feet? I thought all
feet were interchangeable?
The problem for me, I think, is I probably won't find a sewing machine that
will do everything, besides I don't even have a clue as to what everything
should be, yet, but I do want the best.
If in fact the embroidery is not really a good quality in the Bernina
machines then maybe I would be better off going with the 1260 or 1530 and
eventually buying myself an embroidery machine only, as Ruth has thought
about doing. WHAT is the difference between the 1260, 1530, 1630 and what is
the price difference?
Regarding the 1080, it doesn't have a knee peddle and I have decided I can't
do without one. I HATE the fact my 1080 doesn't have an elongated basting
stitch. I haven't gotten into decorative use of stitches yet, but I would
like to have lots more then the 1080 has for future use.
Any opinions and or help from my fellow Bernina Club members would be much
appreciated.
Thanks,
===========================================================================
Date: Sun, 21 May 1995 09:14:57 -0400
Subject: Re: Berninas to class
There is no reason why you can't take any Bernina to class except that of
weight. It does not hurt them to be moved, unless of course, they are
dropped. Robbi and I both have Berninas and Pfaffs, and the Pfaff is lighter
to carry, so that is what I travel with and take to most classes, but not
always. When I took a free-motion machine embroidery class this year, the
1530 went with me because I think the Bernina is better at this AND, a very
important point, the feed dog lever is conveniently located on the OUTSIDE
right of the machine, whereas on the Pfaff, it is hidden way inside the
bobbin compartment. So strap your Bernina to a luggage cart and take it where
you please.
Mary M
===========================================================================
Date: Sun, 21 May 1995 10:23:05 -0400
Subject: Re: Heavy Equipment
Thanks Liz and everyone for some good chuckles this morning. (I get the
digest)
There's good news re heavy machinery. Most medical people recommend women do
weight-bearing exercise in order to keep our bones in shape. And, women
traditionally have less upper body muscle than men to begin.
Soooo, back backs and other pre-existing conditions taken into consideration,
it should be GOOD for us to lug around our 'ninas.
Just think of it as exercise with a different kind of payoff -- you get to
bring a great machine to class etc!
Happy sewing and lugging.
Mary Beth
===========================================================================
Date: Sun, 21 May 1995 10:58:47 -0400
Subject: I bought the combo
...the 1530 and the Bernette Deco 500 embroidery machine. Not at the same
time, however. The reason I did not want the top of the line Pfaff or Bernina
was because even with the software, it does not digitize the stitches; you
have to do that yourself. I adore the 1530 and also adore my embroidery
machine which I have not had as much time lately to work on because I am
doing a challenge quilt with a close deadline because I procrastinated. I got
the scanner for the embroidery machine because then I can scan anything that
I can draw (or trace) within its size limitations. I have so many plans of
things to embroider that I cannot see straight. Not seeing straight is also
the result of (a) too much time on the computer and (b) working too long on
the challenge quilt. I have put all my "empty" sweatshirts and t-shirts into
a pile waiting for a design because I cannot stand to see anything without
embellishment since I got the embroidery machine.
Mary M
===========================================================================
Date: Sun, 21 May 1995 12:32:34 -0400
Subject: Berninas to Anywhere!
When I go to my son's in Maryland. I take my wonderful 'NINA along , even on
the airlines. It will fit in the upper bins, but usually the airline hostess
will put in into a closet for me. I wouldn't dream of checking it with the
luggage!
But I've traveled on planes with it many times, so taking it to a class
session is no big deal to me at all. In those classes, I want the quality
features that only B. offers.
Go and SEW !!!
Ida
===========================================================================
Subject: Re: Heavy Machines
Date: Sun, 21 May 95 9:49:22 PDT
>it's carrying it up and down the stairs of my house that I find so annoying.<
Yeah, and how bout lifting it in and out of the truck of your car. ;-/
--
Jean P
===========================================================================
Date: Sun, 21 May 1995 13:54:02 -0400
Subject: Where to Buy a Soft-Sided Carrying Case?
Hi Everyone,
Several of you have mentioned having or buying soft-sided carrying cases
(with easy to carry handles, etc.) for your Berninas. I know that Nancy's
Notions carries them in royal blue. Who else carries them?
I remember someone saying that she had bought a fuschia one at a show
someplace. Does anyone know where to find something like that, perhaps?
Hope you all are enjoying spring. Our flowering trees are in full bloom and
our trees are finally getting their green leaves!
Many thanks,
Marianne
===========================================================================
Date: Sun, 21 May 1995 16:54:18 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Bernina's to Class
I substitute a soft cover on my 1630 when taking it to a class. This
reduces the weight alot. The canvas bag which I carry all my regular
class supplies in also holds the items normally tucked into the hard
case. This solved my problem. My 1630 was the answer to lugging my 930
up a flight of stairs at my favorite quilt shop.
Pam
===========================================================================
Date: Sun, 21 May 1995 18:34:19 -0400
Subject: Re: What foot for BIG cording??
Try the # 94 foot. PR
===========================================================================
Date: Sun, 21 May 1995 21:15:09 -0400
Subject: Re: What foot for BIG cording??
When searching for the proper foot for that "Big cording", don't overlook the
#12 foot for the 1630! If you compare the uncoded and the coded #12, you'll
notice a big difference in cord allowance under the foot. The coded 1630
foot can also be used on other machines! The same applies to the #20 open
toe foot. The 1630 open toe foot has so much more visibility! The 1630 feet
are a little wider than the other model's feed dogs, but seem to work just
fine!
Shelley
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 22 May 1995 06:59:37 -0400
Subject: Re: RE: Bernina to Class
My 1630 travels with me frequently! I purchased the black nylon zipper case
for my machine, and buckle it in with a seat belt - just like my children!!
(And almost as cherished!)
Shelley
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 22 May 95 07:54:45 EDT
Subject: Re: Upgrading from Bernina 1080
I was the one who complained about the lack of very many satin stitches on
the 1630. Even with the scanner I don't think you can do it. Some please
correct me if I'm wrong. If I decide to trade mine in, I'll get either a
1260 or a 1530. They both have the ocillating bobbin mechanism, so you
have a lot of control. Also, the buttonhole is done with both the left and
right beads being sewn in the same direction -- will be even and beautiful
(so does the 1630 for that matter). The "big" feet are feet specifically
for the 1630 because the feed dog is bigger. 1530 and before are 5mm. You
can use most of the smaller feet on the 1630, but you get more control with
the bigger feet because they fit over the feed dogs. Good luck!
Ruth B
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 22 May 1995 11:29:04 +0500
Subject: Re: Model 1630
I have a 1630 and have not heard about an up-grade. (my dealer - the
closest - is 80 miles away) Can you please let us know about the up-grade?
Esther
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 22 May 1995 21:03:52 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/21/95
If anyone went to the quilt show there was a gentlement selling cases for
sewing machines. Maybe someone would have gotten the name.
That was the New York quiltshow.
BARB
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 22 May 95 13:56:33 PST
Subject: re: Embroidery machines/Scanners
What price range are you talking when you're discussing the
Bernina embroidery machine? Also, how much is the scanner?
Thanks,
Chris LeBoeuf
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 22 May 1995 21:38:18 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/21/95
Makayla Seger is the name on the check I wrote for my fuschia color carrying
bag. I was upset when I got home that there was no identifying label inside.
When I saw your note in the Bernina digest, I thought, well, I can look this
up in the NYC show program. I KNEW the vendors were listed there.
Yes, the vendors are shown in a diagram with little identifying
letter/numbers. Below the Diagram, they are listed -- ALPHABETICALLY. What
the heck good is THAT? This is definitely going in my list of things to avoid
at MY show.
Perhaps I wrote a check to a vendor impersonator... Sorry I can't be more
help.
Mary Beth G
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 22 May 1995 23:10:44 -0400
Subject: Bernina Carrier
Well ladies, big DUUH on my part along with an apology. Yes, I did see a
little logo on my fuschia carrying case. No, I didn't see the words there...
Creative Carriers, is the name. The only info I have otherwise is the phone
# listed in the program: (402) 645-3530.
Sorry for the brain fade on my part.
Mary Beth
===========================================================================
Date: Mon, 22 May 1995 15:28:42 -0400
Subject: Sergers, presser feet, Berninas...
Boy, this place has been buzzing!
I've been too busy to keep up last week. Had a ball this weekend catching
up. Here's the one post only .02+.02+.02...
About large cording:
I use the zipper foot and find it does a good job. I like the fact that it
uses the center part of the feed dog. I recently made totes out of heavy
canvas, cording made of the same canvas with clothes line as padding. I
found that:
1. lotsa pins helped a lot to position the piping. And sewing the piping to
the first layer, then sewing the 2 layers together helps also
2. in difficult areas, like in -sharp- curves (avoid corners if possible
with cording anyway) I used a stapler and nailed everything down within the
seam allowance. Since I was stitching at the 5/8 line, the staples were not
in the way (the pins were bending and giving up in the high stress areas,
the material being rather stiff.
(I also serged the edges of the material before assembling, which made it
easier (on the serger) to deal with seam allowances. I overstitched (mock
felling) after assembly to stiffen the tote. Worked well, after I went to
my sharpest, meanest jeans needle for the thick areas.
(btw, on my first attempt at the tote, I did not pre-serge the fabric edges.
So I had the 334DS serge the assembled 'sandwich'- and we're talking some
layers here! Naughty naughty... The machine is indeed a workhorse. It
struggled a bit on the 8 layer lumps but never missed a stitch!)
3. to facilitate the guiding of the cording and help stitch as snuggly
against its edge as possible, I ended up butting my left hand fingers along
the cording edge (to the left of the foot), like a seam guide would. I then
held the material/cording with my right hand, about 6in from the foot,
pulling it a bit to the right (c. 15 degree angle), to coax it unger the
presser foot. CAUTION: don't pull to the right to much and don't pull too
close to the foot. Either of these will make the cording 'arch' and will
actually force it away from the needle. If pulling too much or too close to
the foot, the toe of the foot will become the leverage point and anything
behind the toe will be leveraged away from the foot edge)
About sergers: 334DS vs 2000DE:
My dealer prefers the 334DS because is rarely needs adjustment (unless
seriously abused). He considers the 'auto tension' of the 2000 models a bit
more delicate, being more intricate. The auto tension is a set of
mechanical settings that fall into place when you turn the stitch selection
dial. He says he's had to readjust it periodically on the machines he has
sold. Yet, another repairman (in Canada) tells me he considers the 2000
models just as good as the 334DS. Personally, I like the 334DS better on
the long run because there is very little in it to go wrong. Both machines
share the same mechanical drive, so they have the same stitching and
strength. I find the 334DS very easy to use and it hasn't given me any
difficulty in getting it to do decorative stitches. One 'bonus' of a
'manual' threading model like the 334DS is that it forces me to practice
(and understand) the relative play of thread tensions.
About taking Ninas to class: Ninas are not that fragile
If you ever look inside your machine, you'll see that they're not fragile
little toys. Actually, I strongly recommend that you ask your dealer to
show you the guts of a Nina next time you visit. They usually have machines
in and 'open' for cleaning anyway. You'll learn a lot!!! Seeing how the
knee lift and feed drop work from the inside is informative to say the
least. Did you know that from 1090-1530, the only difference you'll observe
inside is the computer board/interface panel on the front of the machines?
(these 2 are assembled together and slide right out-after disconnecting a
few cables). I for one will likely never pay to have my Nina cleaned. I
clean and oil mine religiously every time I use it. And when time for the
yearly cleaning comes around, at all needed is to remove the plastic panels
on the back/side and gingerly go after the lint with a vacuum cleaner (with
small attachment). Then use a bit of oil if needed and voila (note that the
oil used inside is a slightly heavier grade than the oil you use on the
shuttle race. That's your 40$ cleanup. If the machine makes any noise or
seems out of tune, then I wouldn't monkey with it.
I would recomment a soft, padded carrying case to take nina to class.
Clotilde has one for around 60$ I think. You need the padding to guard
against impacts. The case that comes with the machine is only good at home
IMO. About carring carts: I would use a piece of firm foam rubber UNDER
the machine. The wheels on these carts don't have a 'suspension'. The
vibration they transmit to the machine won't do it any good. I am planning
to get a soft carrying case. I'll add on a shoulder strap if it doesn't
have one.
A note about driving Nina around. My dealer recommends to cart Nina in the
back (we have a small wagon) or in the trunk, butted against the back seat.
Sudden braking is likely to send nina flying if it rides on the back seat.
If you do carry it in the back seat (especially if your trunk looks like an
endless abyss), fasten the seat belt around it. (our belts are too short for
that...).
And to make your nina seem 'lighter', buy a 1965 Ward's all metal 'portable'
(sic) plunker at a yard sale ( I have such a beast). Cart that around a few
times and your nina will feel like a featherweight :)
Well, I guess I should keep up better... :)
Nice to read you all!
Sylvain
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 23 May 1995 07:27:46 -0400
Subject: Re: Embroidery Machines/Scanners
The Sewing Center, 7003-J Manchester Blvd. Alexandria, VA 22310 is selling
the dec0 and scanner for $2399. PH 703 719 9106. They are one of the better
dealers in the Wash, DC area.
Carol
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 23 May 95 07:12:20 EDT
Subject: Re: Embroidery Machines/Scanners
In my area, Washington, DC suburbs, if you try, you can get the Deco 500
for $1,499., even a little less on sale. I don't know about the scanner.
Ruth B
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 23 May 1995 09:07:31 +0500
Subject: ocillating bobbin
I have read several msgs that refer to an "ocillating bobbin mechanism"
which gives more control. I have never used a machine with an
ocillating bobbin (my old machine had the exact type of bobin the 1630
has - one which rotates) Is the ocillating bobbin a different shape - not
round? How does it give more control? I am in the complete dark and
would appreciate any more info any of you might have.
This fan club has been very informative, can't wait to read the msgs as I
get them.
Esther
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 23 May 95 12:58:25 MDT
Subject: historical clothing
About 3 weeks ago I wrote about sending a list of internet
sources for historical clothing. I didn't forget! All of my lists
and internet stuff is at work where my office is all packed up
for redecorating. They *promise* it will be done by early June.
As soon as I can get to the internet addresses, I'll get them out.
I apologize to all those who wrote back and hope I didn't mess anyone
up too much.
Debbie
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 23 May 95 13:10:24 PDT
Subject: Re: Embroidery Machines/Scanners
Deco Embroidery machine: I was in to see the Bernina dealer
here in Salt Lake City. The 500 was $1500 and the scanner was
$1200. I was not impressed.
-------------------------------------
Name: Sue W
===========================================================================
Date: Sun, 21 May 1995 18:45:33 -0400
Subject: Re: Sewing on Beads
I have a video on "Free Motion Machine Embroidery and Beading by Machine",
for futher information let me know. I have another video coming out soon with
Iris Lee "Cutwork - Needlelace and Beyond "PAT R
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 23 May 1995 19:26:36 -0400
Subject: #37 foot
I just discovered another wonderful use for the #37 (patchwork or 1/4") foot.
I normally use the #20 (open toed embroidery) foot to do paper foundation
piecing, as it is easier to follow the line than it is using the 0 or 1 foot.
Anyway, I had changed to the 37 to join some foundation blocks together but
forgot to change back when I went to foundation piece and discovered that the
37 works even better than the 20 for this because it has a smaller space
between the toes and seems to grip better because of the toes being closer.
If you have a #37 and do foundation piecing, try it.
Mary M
===========================================================================
Date: Tue, 23 May 1995 20:51:15 EDT
Subject: Designer Software
Is the price of $400 standard for the software? It seems
quite expensive considering the comments I have read about
it. I haven't seen it and am wondering if it is something I
should have. Any comments?
Sandy
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 24 May 1995 07:07:48 -0400
Subject: In Stitches-Make It Myself Show
Just wondering if anyone will be in Atlanta attending the In Stitches
Conference May 25-27. I am scheduled for the Bernina sponsored workshop
presented by Elayne Feazel. Thought it might be fun to introduce ourselves
as Real People if you were going to be there.
===========================================================================
Date: Wed, 24 May 95 06:49:14 EDT
Subject: Re: Ocillating Bobbin
The oscillating bobbin goes back &forth, i.e., left, right, left, right.
On all the upper level Berninas that have this feature, there is also a
little "arm" that sticks up. It has a hole in it and should be threaded
when doing buttonholes and sometimes for satin stitch. Apparently, it
changes the bobbin tension slightly. For those operations, you loosen the
needle tension a little. Why this type bobbin gives better control, I'm
not sure, but it does. Also, the more narrow width of feed dog seems to
hold the cloth together more securily. I've had both and I'd prefer the
oscillating-type Bernina.
Ruth B
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 25 May 1995 03:14:13 -0400
Subject: Re: Historical Clothing
>About 3 weeks ago I wrote about sending a list of internet<
>sources for historical clothing. I didn't forget! All of my lists<
>and internet stuff is at work where my office is all packed up<
>for redecorating.<
I though that I might help out a little bit. .I have been a member of the
Historical Costuming Newsletter in the past. It is fairly active. It is not
a Newsgroup, but a mailing list, and if you subscribe to it will send you
messages as soon as they are posted to the list. So if you like getting lots
of Email this is a great list.
I am quoting from the FAQ for the alt.sewing newsgroup:
Put in the body of the letter: Subscribe (your email address)
Purpose: This list concentrates on recreating period clothing, from the
Bronze age to the mid-20th century. Its emphasis is on accurate historical
reproduction of clothing, historical techniques for
garment construction, and the application of those techniques in modern
clothing design. Other topics appropriate for discussion include adeapting
historical clothing for the modern figure, clothing evolution, theatrical
costumes, patterns, materials, books, and sources for supplies.
I hope this helps a little until Deborah gets her office back. I am looking
foward for her post.
Rici
===========================================================================
Date: 25 May 95 11:10:05 EDT
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/24/95
Hi All,
I went to my Bernina Banquet Tuesday night; and as usual my dealer really
overdid themselves. We got the beaded necklace kit for serger or zigzag and 5
Bernina Bucks for perfect attendence, a grab bag with a ultra suede and leather
belt kit, patterns, etc., a copy of Bernina magazine, and we each won a door
prize (mine was a kwik-sew book with patterns). There were 300 people there and
all Bernina Club members won something. Plus there were drawings for larger
prizes from Bernina for the Sew n' Show Show, which was were there set up in a
separate room a display of things people made and entered. There was also a
fashion show where everyone who wore what they made walked around. Dinner was
great and it was lots of fun. I talked to the Bernina rep there and he said
there are no plans for software for the Mac. Too small a market, even though
most of them seem to be Bernina people also. He said he would check on the
possibility of a connector for those of us with Mac's that run IBM.
I am going to the Canadian Bernina University for the weekend package in
August; anyone else attending?
Carol
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 25 May 1995 11:23:25 -0400
Subject: cleaning, hook systems, soft cas
I feel that it is necessary to comment on the advice given about removing the
back panels and vacuuming the inside of your Bernina. Please do NOT do this.
Opening the machine by anyone other than an authorized Bernina mechanic can
invalidate your warranty and can result in damage to your machine or to
yourself. Your yearly clean, oil, and adjust maintenance at the Bernina
dealers will keep your machine purring like a kitten and is well worth the
cost. Your friendly neighborhood mechanic will often find irregularities that
you cannot detect and will fix them before a problem arises. You can think
about it like going in for your yearly mammogram.
In regard to soft carrying cases, your Bernina dealer should have one. It
comes with attachments to attach it to a luggage cart. Check it out! Whenever
I am tempted to complain about the weight of any of my Ninas, I just remind
myself that I should be grateful that it is made of all metal parts!
Concerning the confusion about hook systems maybe the following info. will
help to clear it up. Rotary hooks turn around in a complete circle whereas
oscillating hooks only turn part way and then return. Industrial machines and
most home sewing machines have rotary hooks.Bernina has stood apart because
they have used oscillating hooks on their home sewing machines exclusively
until recently. This was the secret of their automatic tension control. The
first Bernina with a rotary hook was the 1000. Currently 3 models: 1000, 1001
and 1630 have rotary hooks. The rotary hook was necessary in order to have a
machine which can sew in multiple directions ( in the case of the 1630, it
sews in 16 directions!). The rotary hook does require tension adjustments on
occasion although I have not had any problem with it. I normally adjust the
top tension when I am doing decorative work on any Bernina machine usually
because I am using a different weight thread in the bobbin than on top or
because I am trying to get a special effect. Just remember to thread your
machine with the presser foot lifted so that the tension disks are open and
the thread can be properly seated. If you change the top tension, be sure to
have the presser foot down so that the tension disks are engaged.
Happy sewing - Francyne
===========================================================================
Date: Thu, 25 May 1995 21:21:49 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: 1630 for sale!!!
* Low Milage Deal * For Sale - Nearly new , seldom used, 1630 Bernina
in the Windsor Ontario / Detroit Michigan area. Asking $3000.00 Canadian
or $2250.00 U.S.. Complete accessory box. Regular tune up completed today.
Jean H
===========================================================================
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/21/95
Date: Wed, 24 May 1995 20:39:51 -0500
Dear Marianne,
I went ahead and splurged and bought one for each of my machines the serger
and the 1080! When I'm not taking the machines out for a walk I use them
to store my stash that runs over the closet:>
Mine are a tapestry colored, they do have teal, fuschia, blue with a red
handle. If you would like I could ask my dealer about some one in your area
who might carry them.
Happy Sewing,
Beth
===========================================================================
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/20/95
Date: Mon, 22 May 1995 09:57:37 -0500
Dear Robbi and all other Bernina Fans,
I guess you missed my excitement at X-Mas when my DH got me a Brand new
2000D! I say again I LOOVVVEEE It! I hadn't even looked at Sergers
knowing I couldn't afford one, and DH couldn't resist buying it for me:>
I just went to the Store the 26th of December to make sure I was threading
it right, went to the fabric store for some great new sweatshirt fleece and
a pattern, then returned home to make up all the fun stuff:> I made 3 or 4
new shirts with out taking lessons on how to use it, the neatest thing
about the 2000D is when you adjust the threads for a rolled hem or whatever
deco stitch you're doing all you do to turn it back to the regular serge
stitch is turn a knob on the side. It's great fun to own one of course I'll
be paying for awhile:>>
BTW, I talked to my Dealer this weekend here in Denver and she hadn't heard
anything about A quilt Guild or Expo until September? Where did you hear
about one?
Beth
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 26 May 1995 08:51:06 -0400
Subject: Warning for 1630 owners
I experienced something in our Bernina Club class yesterday that I am posting
to prevent others having the same thing happen to them. I have a 1630 and was
using a Wing needle to do fancy stitching on batiste. Suddenly my thread
started breaking. The spool would spin and then top thread would knot on the
bottom and then the top thread would break. I tried everything, and my
Bernina Dealer also tried everything she could think of to find out the
problem (one of the best, I think, after reading postings here), She tried a
regular needle and got the same spinning/knotting/breaking problem with a
regular needle. Then suddenly two other 1630 machines started doing the same
thing. Unlike me, they stopped using the pattern they were trying when the
problem started.
After diagnosing the problem for the afternoon, our dealer found that the
needle had put a burr on the shuttle. It seems the problem started when I
tried a pattern that used the full 9mm width. I seriously cut into mine and
it's out for awhile being repaired. The other gal, stopped using the 9mm
pattern immediately, but I had kept trying to get it to work. So, if you use
the wing needle for it's effects, please save yourself my frustration and
don't use any patterns over 6mm. And if you see your thread doing what mine
was, then have your dealer check if you have a burr on your shuttle!
Hope this helps someone else avoid heartache.
Barb M
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 26 May 1995 08:47:00 -0400
Subject: Thanks
First let me thank you for your personal time and effort. Then for signing me
on.
I help my wife on the Deco 500 and would like to know who I could call to
learn how to single stitch an outline, on this machine, as it does on the
ones that came with the machine
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 26 May 1995 16:29:36 -0400
Subject: Where was this banquet and how can we get in?
Carol, please tell us more about this banquet. It sounds wonderful.
===========================================================================
Date: Fri, 26 May 1995 18:42:16 -0400
Subject: double needle tension
When threading any Bernina with 2 threads you put one thread on each side of
the tension disk. First make sure that your presser foot is raised and begin
by threading with the thread from the right spindle and make sure that the
thread is coming off of the front of the spool (it will be turning
clockwise), place the thread on the right of the tension disk and thread
everything else as usual putting the thread through the right hand needle. To
thread the spool on the left hand spindle, make sure that the thread is
coming off of the back of the spool (it will be turning counterclockwise).
The purpose of having both spools turning in opposite directions is to
prevent the thread from rubbing against each other as it feeds off the
spools. Put this thread on the left side of the tension disk and thread
normally until you reach the last guide before the needle (the little wire
that wraps partway around the needle holder). Do not put this second thread
behind the wire - bypass it and thread the left needle. This helps to prevent
fiction and twisting of the two threads. Once the needles are threaded, lower
your presser foot. Hope that this helps! Happy sewing - Francyne.
===========================================================================
Subject: Re: double needle tension
Date: Sat, 27 May 95 22:03:18 PDT
Hi ^_^;
Thanks for this tip. I've been sewing for years and never knew this.
Who says you can't teach an ole dog new Tricks!! ;0}
--
Jean P
===========================================================================
Date: Sun, 28 May 1995 15:14:53 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/27/95
Hi everyone.
Has anyone heard about any new keys coming out for the 1630? Seems there
were supposed to be a few new ones coming out this spring?
We will be starting a Bernina club here soon, can anyone give me some ideas
of activities that we could do in the club?
Thanks
Roni
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Date: Sun, 28 May 1995 17:06:42 -0400
Subject: Re: #37 Foot
Dear Mary,
What is foundation piecing?
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Date: Mon, 29 May 1995 08:50:46 -0400
Subject: Bernina's to Class
I used to take my trusty Singer to class also .. but the
classes were held at a local fabric store/Bernina Dealer.
While no one *ever* looked down at non-bernina users,
the instructors whizzed right along with Bernina special
features. Other "bernina" classmates could follow directions
verbatium, those of us with other machines would have to
modify instructions frequently. Lots of routine tasks could
be accomplished on the 'ninas with a simple switch of feet
and minor stitch adjustments - not so on my Singer.
So I bought a Bernina ! Actually, I think this particular
store (and probably many others) use their classes to
speed up the decision making process for those who are
looking for a new machine sometime down the road.
Attending a class (quilting, dressmaking, etc) at a bernina
center before acutally making your own purchase - could
help you become more familiar with features on a number
of machines -- you can "comparison shop" your classmates
machines while they are in action versus on display -- with
a dealer doing demos.
Good luck...
BG
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Subject: Bernina University
Date: Mon, 29 May 1995 10:16:29 MST
Where is BU in Canada this year and when in August?
Thanks in advance!
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Date: Mon, 29 May 1995 13:51:47 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina University
(......raising hand from the back of the room.....)
I've got a question!
Can "anyone" go to Bernina University? Or do you have to be a store owner?
Where are they held in the Midwest? Are there seperate Universities for the
different machines? I just gotta know!!!!
Mary Beth
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Date: Tue, 30 May 95 07:19:06 EDT
Subject: Re: double needle tension
If you have one spool coming off clockwise and the other coming off
counter-clockwise, they aren't twisted in the same direction and I've been
told in a Bernina class by an expert that that's a no no. If you use the
wire eye on the handle, couldn't both threads come off from behind, i.e.,
turning counter-clockwise? Could anyone address tension used specifically
for double needle sewing on the 1630. I'm positive it's different on this
model. It is defenitely different then on the 1130 that I owned. Thanks
for your help.
Ruth B
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Date: Tue, 30 May 95 07:55:02 EDT
Subject: Re: Cleaning, hook systems, soft case
I know you are correct about threading with the foot up, but when you
progress to the needle, on the 1630 you have to then put the foot down to
use the little threader that comes on the righthand side of the machine.
At least I do. I didn't on the 1130. I could keep the foot up throughout
the entire threading process. On the 1630 I make sure the thread is not
pulled tight &lower the foot only to thread the needle. Does anyone else
have a comment on this?
Ruth B
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Date: Tue, 30 May 1995 08:47:20 -0500
Subject: Bernina dealers
Would anyone know where to find Bernina dealers in Central Illinos.
I went to buy a Bernina 1090 Saturday and my dealer in this area
(Champaign) wanted way more than what I have seen posted here. She wanted
$1800, including tax. I think this includes 6 months ( 3 meetings ) of the
Bernina club. If you buy your machine from her you get the 3 orientation
lessons free. (they cost $25 each if you don't buy your machine there)
I believe some have paid $1400-1500. So I thought I would shop around if
I can find where other dealers in Central Illinois might be located.
Has anyone ever bought Bernina machines wholesale or through catalogs.
I sure want a Bernina but wow the price is a little overwhelming and the
sad thing the price will go up about $100 June 1. I guess it compares in
price to a computer.
Sarita
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Date: 30 May 1995 08:55:08 MDT
Subject: Re: Double Needle Tension
How do you like the 1630 compared to the 1130 - I have an 1130 and absolutely
love it - what made you decide to trade up?
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Date: Tue, 30 May 1995 11:54:47 +0500
Subject: Threading
I have a 1630, I lower the presser foot to manually thread the needle
because the white background on the presser foot shaft makes the needle
eye very visable and speeds the process up.
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Date: Tue, 30 May 1995 12:00:25 +0500
Subject: Oiling, lint
The last time I was at the dealers with my 1630 he said when
he services the machines he puts a drop of oil on the shaft in
the bobbin race that the bobin case slips on to. Because the
bobbin rotates on the shaft it will help slow wear and it
helps to make the machine a little quieter.
I have noticed that I have more lint build up around the bobbin area
of the 1630 than my older machine. Anyone else notice this effect?
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Date: Tue, 30 May 95 09:56:37 MDT
Subject: FAQ's on historical costuming
The biggest source I could find on all types of historical costuming
was a FAQ listed by :
She had copied and written pages and pages of sources, textiles, etc.
used for reenactors, SCA people, and museum types.
For victorian type clothes, she had listed :
For historically accurate fabrics, she had listed:
She even had an email address for Seminole War reenactors:
Various Newsgroups were listed. Send email to :
send usenet/news.answers/crafts-textiles and/or
send usenet/news.answers/crafts-historical-costuming
I have not tried all of these, but there seems to be an active
historical group (groups) out there.
Good Luck! Debbie
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Date: Tue, 30 May 1995 12:52:20 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Re: Oiling, Lint
Sue, I notice a lot of lint build up when I use black thread, either in
the bobbin or thru the needle. I have a 1530 (which my SIL made fun of
this weekend - can you believe it?).
Martha
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Date: Tue, 30 May 95 12:24:25 EDT
Subject: Re: Double Needle Tension
Impetuosity made me decide to trade up from the 1130 to the 1630.
Actually, I had an 1130 and a Pfaff 1475 CD. The Pfaff I had bought for
the creative possibilities and found the machine fussy -- it was always
tempermental. I sold it. I thought the 1630 would offer me the same range
of creativity as the Pfaff, but I'm dissapointed with the range of built-in
stitches. There are some very lovely usable ones, but more than half are
silly and amateurish. If you love your 1130, stich with it! If you need
more creativity, but an embroidery machine.
Ruth
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Date: Tue, 30 May 1995 13:24:37 EST
Subject: Could it be the heat and humidity?
I've been trying to de-lint and oil my baby on a regular basis.
Someone here, I think, goes on a every-time-you-fill-a-bobbin schedule
to clean their machine so I've tried to adapt that schedule.
It's not quite time for a cleaning yet, but yesterday when I was
finishing a shirt for my son (very cute, arctic animal print) I
noticed a louder-than-usual noise when I drove slowly. I've heard
this before but went away after a cleaning which coincided with
cooler, dryer weather. Since I just cleaned recently, could the
noise be from the heat and humidity, or do I need to clean more
than once a bobbin? (installing central air in our 1920's farm
house is out of the question, unfortunately)
k-
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Date: Tue, 30 May 1995 18:24:00 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina Digest 5/29/95
Our dealer allows us to use Bernina machines for her classes. I think she
has sold many a machine because of this practice. She has a lovely store
downstairs and upstairs it is a large room with a counter top that extends
the length of the room. The counter is filled with 8 different Bernina
machines.
I think this is great, it helps her sell machines, but it also means I don't
have to lug my machine to class. It also gives me the chance to try other
Berninas that I normally wouldn't try.
Hope everyone is well and sewing happily away.
Roni
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Date: Tue, 30 May 1995 21:29:32 -0400
Subject: Re: Bernina University
BU Canada is at the Ramada Hotel Toronto Don Valley, August 11 - 13, 1995.
Call (905) 475-9330, Ext. 312, or fax (905) 475-7022 for information.
Harriet H
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Date: Tue, 30 May 1995 21:43:58 -0400
Subject: Re: Oiling, Lint
I find an increase in lint as the quality of the thread drops! When I use
Mettler there is very little lint compared to the bargain stuff I use every
now and then. (Usually because, my sister has given me the thread... she
worked in Jo Ann's and bought thread just to have... and gave me some as
she had no room!)
I make it a habit to clean my machine with each project... and more than
once on a longer project. I can just hear it start to sound different when
sewing.
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Subject: More about oiling and cleaning a 1630
Date: Wed, 31 May 95 07:21:28 -0400
I've owned my 1630 for about a year now. Over that time I've been
pretty good about cleaning and oiling it at the start of each project,
but not perfect. Despite my being very careful to put oil only on the
inside edge of the place where the bobbin goes (the race?), there now
seems to be a very slight film of oil over everything in the general
area. This is most noticable because the lint sticks to it about as
much as it sticks to the brush, so I can never quite get all the lint
out of there. I've also noticed that the brush is faintly oily. It's
entirely possible that I am the culprit - perhaps I touched the brush
to a spot that I had oiled, and then ended up spreading oil around the
insides as I chased after lint.
I have some questions about this.
1. Should I be concerned? It seems to me that, other than making
cleaning a bit annoying, the oil wouldn't do any harm.
2. Does this happen to other people? If so, have you found a way to
get rid of the oily film? Is there a good way to avoid this sort of
problem in the first place?
3. I recently noticed that the low bobbin warning has stopped working.
Could the oil be the cause of this? I plan on bringing my machine in
for its annual physical in the next few weeks, and will ask to have
this fixed. Should I be grumbling about the machine or blushing about
my cleaning technique? :-)
Thanks in advance for your help.
Debbie D
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Date: Wed, 31 May 1995 09:11:44 -0500
Subject: Re: Threading
I was threading that way also, but started having trouble with the stitch
formation, and tension, so I stopped. I guess whatever works is okay. It
didn't work for me
Suzi
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