pattypurple

My DIL wants to get a sewing/ embroidery machine. She is looking at a Brother SE-400. I'm a big believer that the dealer is the most important factor so classes and service are available. Saying that does anyone have suggestions for good dealers for machines and classes in the area? (I live in NY so don't know the area very well)Also what are your opinions of the SE400 machine. I noticed that it doesn't have a USB port and that would be a deal breaker for me.

PaperPrincess

I agree about that USB deal breaker. Looks like you need separate software and possibly a card writer which would up the price quite a bit. It also looks like the max embroidery area is 4X4.
Here's a link to the manual, maybe you can get more specifics:
http://www.kenssewingcenter.com/free...l-p-30860.html

Nilla

Jomax in Westminster sells Brother as well as other brands. They're a small shop, but friendly and helpful from my experience. Bear paw in Towson sells Bernina. I'm not sure if they have other brands. Hope this helps.

QuiltMom2

Ellicott City Sew Vac is a Babylock dealer giving exceptional service and support to people who purchase machines there. Lots of quilting goodies in stock, some fabric, classes to learn to use machine free with purchase usually one-on-one instruction.

pattypurple

Thanks. Just looked at their website and it looks like the kind of store I wanted to find. Will try to take DIL there after Christmas.

mpspeedy2

Just Sew Sew in Westminster, MD sells Berninas. I personally purchased my first embroidery machine from them and a lower end Bernina sewing machine to use for workshops etc. They got into selling the machines so they could sew with them when doing their custom dressmaking and alterations. I learned a lot working for them and fell hopelessly in love with Bernina machines while there.