Bernina 230

by Kit
(Cornwall UK)

I bought the Bernina 230 sewing machine about 6 months ago and have mad several garments with it. I have also used it to copy bags and garments I see in shops, but that cost a fortune.

The latest,a sort of pieced dress in strips like patchwork, was made so easy using this machine. I make extensive use of the stitch options from a plastic "postcard" attachable to the top of the machine.

I also have 11 feet. The walking foot is absolutely marvelous and acts as a differential feed when I'm mixing textiles and even non textiles (plastic packaging, bits of zip etc. Don't sew across them but they make cute trims!)

I find the labor saving needle-up or needle-down position very helpful. I can turn when stopping with the needle down and then revert to needle-up to end.

The speed can be reduced by a half speed button to do topstitching or other careful work and free machine embroidery is made very easy. The dogs drop and the darning foot makes an ideal miniature hoop.

I am about to make two coats, two macs and a leather bag. I think the Bernina 230 sewing machine will cope easily with the leather because unlike other so-called European machines, it is still made as strongly as old Singers which could be used for heavy work.

I even plan to make stuff using sailcloth and canvas for when we get back on a sailing boat. Not the sails of course but it could handle that, I think.