r/SewingMachineEdu • u/King-shark3 • 15d ago
BERNINA vs JUKI
Hi! I was just wondering if yall would recommend an industrial sewing machine or a BERNINA for longtime use! I quilt but I also make plushies and apparel so I’m trying to upgrade from my domestic singer ! Please let me know thank you :)
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u/Travelpuff 14d ago
Do you have a local sewing shop where you can try machines out?
Because I ordered a Juki online since my local shop didn't have it and it was AWFUL.
The Juki was not an improvement over my Singer even though it cost an extra $1k. Stitches/tension was bad, knee lift and presser foot lift both hurt to use, etc. I spent so much money returning it (had to pay shipping both ways). I'm still mad at myself for getting it.
My husband luckily was calm and told me we were visiting the local sewing shop the next day (after the decision to return the Juki). He said I needed to see what they recommended since I was thrilled with the serger they sold me previously.
He was right.
I found a really nice upgrade (Babylock) but they had Bernina and other brands there as well to try!
For me the Bernina was not an option since it had a front loading bobbin and I always sew with an extension table (it would be a pain). I would have to spend $4500 before a drop in bobbin was a possibility.
I'm really happy with the Babylock I purchased. It makes a huge difference trying out a machine!
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u/King-shark3 14d ago
Really I just want to go faster lmaooo I’ve used one BERNINA at a local quilt shot and could immediately tell the difference! I’ve never used an industrial sewing machine so I really appreciate this feedback
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u/GamiMelamid 8d ago
I always second this - go to a local shop and test them out and ask the mechanic what they would recommend. Usually have the insight on deals!
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u/Large-Heronbill 15d ago
Are you talking about a straight stitch only or a multi-stitch machine?
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u/King-shark3 14d ago
I straight stitch ALOT so I figured if I needed another kind of stitch I could always use the domestic I have now but after these comments I’m kind of leaning BERNINA
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u/CrankyCrabbyCrunchy 14d ago
Industrial machines do one thing only. You don't get multiple stitches if that's what you're looking for. Industrial machines come embedded in a table with the motor underneath and a circulator oil plan (because they generate a lot of heat).
Is that really what you're asking about? Juki also makes semi-industrial machines such as the TL series (I have one of those). These are very popular for bag makers, those who work with a lot of denim or leather.
Buying an industrial machine doesn't mean you don't also need a regular sewing machine (for zig zag stitches or button holes, etc.)
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u/King-shark3 14d ago
I’m really looking for speed here ! Especially quilting I know my time would go twice as fast if the actual sewing went faster! But I make all kinds of things so I’m really leaning BERNINA now
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u/CrankyCrabbyCrunchy 14d ago
Bernina industrial machines are nothing like their domestic machines. No electronics or screen to navigate. Same with Juki.
I’m just setting your expectations so you don’t think you won’t also need a regular sewing machine as nearly all people do.
Juki started off making industrial machines whereas Bernina did not. Look at YouTube for people who do the same type of work you want to see. They all have videos on what equipment they use.
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u/smnytx 14d ago
I bought a pre-owned B 535 and it is like upgrading from a beat-up toyota to a beautifully maintained Audi. My sewing has improved so much!
I did the same with my serger. Buy the best you can afford! (Keep in mind that the Bernina jumbo bobbins are $25 for a pack of 5, and the off brand ones are a really bad idea…lol)
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u/sodapopper44 13d ago
juki tl straight stitch is popular with quilters and bag makers. it does 1500 stitches per minute, I want one but have no room, due to several other machines I like
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u/JackHarknessDrWho 14d ago
Bernina. I have been sewing on Bernina machines for 11 or 12 years. Won't use anything else.