Cuilteanna

Funny, I prefer the front load bobbin because I can change it without having to remove my quilt or embroidery hoop! I can tell from the noise when I'm getting near the end.

A larger harp is probably what I'd notice first. My "dream list" would be a large harp, stitch regulator, large bobbin, dual feed... well, something like the Bernina 8 series but without the high price tag!

Hosta

make and model then throat size

Hosta

make and model then throat size

QuilterDawg

My Bernina 830, which I love, has a GIGANTIC bobbin. It tells you on the screen when you are about to run out, but I wish it would beep. When I'm machine quilting I don't look at the screen....

wraez

Oh I agree... the throat size! I want as much room as I can have on a standard machine to make quilting easier.

Some of this Singers etc have such a tiny throat all I can think is that they are only good for making blocks, piecing but definitely not for actual quilting. Maybe good for kids to learn to sew.

warm quilt hugs, sue in CA

purplefiend

I much prefer a machine that has a removable bobbin case like the Berninas,vintage Singers and Pfaffs. I do machine quilting and the drop in bobbin machines don't seem to do free motion quilting as easily. I love my old Berninas, but the small throat space makes quilting difficult.
Sharon W.

purplefiend

Which Viking do you have? I have a Sapphire 875. I love, love it!! Now if it only had a front loading bobbin like the Berninas and Pfaff I have.

hobbykat1955

weight, and all the perks...thread cutter, threader, bobbin empty stopage, and most of all Sensor foot which is only made by Husqvarna....privot heaven...foot lifts automatically when you lift your foot off the pedal

purplefiend

I love the Sensor foot,although it took me a while to get used to it. When I use one of the other machines in my herd, I forget
they don't have that feature. :lol:

Sew Krazy Girl

I look for:
* throat size
* knee bar to lift the foot
* self threader
* extra spool holder