Replies

1. 
   buckets | Jul 11, 2003 05:00pm | #1

   MJP- I use the Bernina 153 Quilters Edition although I do not quilt.  Perhaps I can still give you some personal opinions about the machines' performance anyway...I have used this model for a year now (traded up from the 135) and have never had any problems.  I particularly enjoy the needle up/down feature, the knee lift lever, the mirror image capabilities and the walking foot (all of which will make quilting easier).   I haven't had any use for the memory function, but I imagine that would be helpful for combing some decorative stitches. I don't often use the decorative stitches, but it isn't difficult to download your choice of stitches from your computer.  It is a bit of a hassle to wade through the instructions and determine which stitches are for use with the 153 (the program includes stitches for the no longer available 163 model which has more stitch choices).  But once you find your favorite stitches, you probably won't change them often.  I love this machine because it provides the options I want without all the bells and whistles that would make use confusing. 

2. 
   JulieP25 | Jul 12, 2003 04:23am | #2

   I agree with Irons. These are great machines. I have a 160 which is the for model to the 163. It 's a dream to use my machine, and changing the stitches out is great fun . Gives plenty of options.  I've taken my to lots of classes and all of the instructors always use my machine to demo on. Thery are easy to use and workhorses when needed. In the 3 yrs, I have only taken this machine in for a cleaning and service. I have found it reliable and great fun to try out the stitches. Yes, I've used all of them. I sew far more now, even the mending is not the chore it used to be. I have auto mending. So go and give them a try. Jules 

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   jscraphappy | Jul 13, 2003 08:57pm | #3

   I have the 170 & think its great. bought the embroidery module a few mths later,& use that a lot.This someone who would never ever get one of those things.I quilt & embroider & its everything I could wish for in a machine.I have also the Elna9000 which I never thought could have been bettered as a good workhorse.Both of the machines are excellent for me.

1. 
   JulieP25 | Jul 14, 2003 05:29am | #4

   Thanks for the reply. Lucky you, I would love to have the embroidery capabilities but it is just not within my budget right now. From what I've read the 170's are pretty great machines as well. If I get the change I will buy the 200 model with the embroidery feature. I would love to learn to digitize my own things and embroider them out. I still love my 160 and will not be trading it in. It's just so easy to use and sews beautifully. Jules

1. 
   jscraphappy | Jul 14, 2003 12:05pm | #5

   goodmorning from a really sunny UK 3days (:yes I am very lucky to have the 170+the embroidery module.Both were combined birthday/christmas/anniversary presents.If you can save enough to get the embroidery unit.it opens up another aspect of the sewing world.I really never ever thought I could master something like this.I wish this techonology had been around when I 1st started to sew all those yrs ago.but on the other hand a young family/no time for me/not the patience/no other distractions on my time.Now is my time to play & learn & I love it.June