Sew Mama Sew Sewing Machine Meme

In honor of their “Sewing Machine Month“, Sew Mama Sew is inviting bloggers to write about their favorite sewing machine.

If you complete this meme, leave a link in the comments – I’d love to read about it!

image: C Findlay-Harder

What brand and model do you have?

I’ve got a Bernina 1530

How long have you had it?

Well… my mom bought it new and then passed it on to me, but it’s been exclusively in my possession for about 7 years now.

How much does that machine cost (approximately)?

What is it worth today, or what was it new?  I’m not sure to be honest...

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

Let’s see, I sew clothing for myself and my family with it.  I create art quilts and free motion embroidery on it.  I make handbags and accessories.  I can’t forget that I’ve sewn dog blankets, horse equipment and other odd things with it too.

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

I tend to go through spurts of tons of sewing, then not touch it for weeks.  When I sew, I sew for hours in a day.

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

I love it to bits!  I’ve sure missed not having it this week while it’s been away getting a tune-up.

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

It’s got computerized embroidery functions, but I tend to use my straight, zig-zag and stretch stitches for 99% of the sewing I do.  I love the knee lift – it makes my life so much easier.

Is there anything that drives you nuts about your machine?

The throat is a little small for big quilts.  I actually quilted a king-size quilt on it, but I trashed my shoulders trying to squish it through.

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!

My mom actually gave it to me – she felt that I do more heavy-duty sewing these days, and I needed a better machine.  What can I say, I’m a lucky daughter

Would you recommend the machine to others? Why?

Absolutely!  It’s been a fantastic workhorse over the years.  It’s built well.

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

Is it comfortable to use?  What’s the history of the manufacturer (ei – do they build good machines?)  Does it have plastic or metal parts?  Can you easily get replacement parts?  Can you have it serviced locally?  Does it have the features you need?

Do you have a dream machine?

I’d love to have a long-arm someday…