Sewing Machine Meme

June is Sewing Machine Month at Sew, Mama, Sew! I thought it would be fun to participate. It's still June, so I figure I'm not late yet :)

What brand and model do you have?

I have a Bernina 1530 Inspiration

How long have you had it?

My machine was bought on August 14, 1992. I've had the machine for almost 17 years!

How much does that machine cost (approximately)?

The machine cost me $2800.00 + $165.96 tax for a grand total of $3014.96. Yes, I still have the original receipt :)

What types of things do you sew (i.e. quilting, clothing, handbags, home dec projects, etc.)?

When I first bought the machine I did lots of paid sewing. I paid for my machine that way. Then when my boys were little I made clothes for them. Now I make some clothes for my little girl and am just getting started quilting. It's so much fun.

How much do you sew? How much wear and tear does the machine get?

I used to sew every day. As my boys got older, I used my machine less and less. I even thought of selling my machine at one point because I hadn't used it in a few years. Now that I have a little girl it gets used a few times a week. I am hoping to be using it every day, especially when my daughter goes to school.

Do you like/love/hate your machine? Are you ambivalent? Passionate? Does she have a name?

I love my machine! It works so well and I have never had a problem with it. She should have name, but she doesn't.... any suggestions?

What features does your machine have that work well for you?

I love the knee lift that lifts the pressure foot. I think that's my favorite feature. I also love the large backstitch button & the option to finish a stitch with the needle in the down position.

Is there anything that drives you nuts about your machine?

Nothing!

Do you have a great story to share about your machine (i.e., Found it under the Christmas tree? Dropped it on the kitchen floor? Sewed your fingernail to your zipper?, Got it from your Great Grandma?, etc.!)? We want to hear it!

When my son was about 1 (he's now almost 15) he climbed onto my sewing table and climbed behind my machine. Both wouldn't fit, so the machine crashed to the floor. Luckily it was carpeted and the only thing that was damaged was the 2nd metal thread holder on the top of the machine.

Would you recommend the machine to others? Why?

I would definitely recommend this machine. Bernina doesn't make this model anymore, but you can only buy it second hand (on ebay), but any Bernina would be a great choice. They are so user friendly and are great workhorses.

What factors do you think are important to consider when looking for a new machine?

Ease of use, Quality, User friendly & Features.

Do you have a dream machine?
Yes! It would be the Bernina 820 or 830.