I prefer to turn that question on its head, mainly because I’ve met so many quilters over the years. I talk to my customer first and find out what they expect from a Bernina quilting machine.
Not all quilters are the same, and not all have the same level of enthusiasm, ambition, or space in their sewing room. One customer wants to tackle a ten-foot quilt, while the next wants to enjoy piecing patchwork squares on the kitchen table. Some have a larger budget, others are just beginning. So I work with my customer, gently and patiently, and let them try a few machines before we settle on the right plan.
Bernina 570QE a Quilters Favourite?
The BERNINA 570 QE is often described as one of the best Berninas for quilting, and it is certainly a superb sewing machine. I wouldn’t disagree — but with one proviso, which I’ll come to in a moment.
BERNINA 570 QE technical briefing (feel free to skip this bit)
When we strip down a customer’s BERNINA 570 QE in our workshop for service or repair, the advanced Swiss engineering reveals itself in all its glory.
Inside, you begin to appreciate the quality of components such as the hook driver, hook race cover, holder and spring, machined feed dog, feed dog support, feed dog fork, Dual Feed shoe and Dual Feed support rail.
Now, I could wax lyrical about the quality of construction of these essential parts, and indeed they are part of the reason why the BERNINA 570 QE delivers such impressive stitch quality, feeding control and durability. But I won’t, because you might lose the will to live.
I will say this, though – what all of the technical detail really means is this,
Smoother feeding
Better control of layers
More consistent stitch quality
Long-term durability
Precision
A Bernina 7 Series Quilter in for Service (front view)
Bernina 7 Series Quilter (rear view, casing removed)
Let me simply say this: Berninas are expensive because of the way they are made.
They are an engineering triumph, and that is one of the main reasons they sew so beautifully and last so well.
I would also add that the BERNINA 570 QE is not always the ideal quilting machine for a complete beginner. Quite apart from the investment involved, many beginners are better starting with a simpler machine and moving up once their confidence, skills and enthusiasm have had time to grow.
Also bear in mind that the 570 is quite often a stepping stone to the Mighty Bernina 7 Series.
So, for you, maybe a Bernina 325 or 335 will be a better fit. Alternatively, the slightly larger Bernina 4 Series might appeal. Then again, you may already be a seasoned quilter with several million stitches to your name. Perhaps now you’re thinking it’s time to look at the Seven Series.
Whatever the level of your enthusiasm, you will find a warm welcome at Bambers. You will also find a range of Bernina models ready and waiting for you to test and try. Why not call in and begin the next step in your Bernina quilting journey?
Alan Bamber
Bambers in Eccles, Manchester.
A family business and a main agent for Bernina since 1958.
www.bambersew.com
