Thread: anyone have a bernina minimatic 807 sewing machine?

So I'm at the stage where I want to create a few things of my own, but I really am a beginner at the sewing stuff. I surprised hubby when I told him I wanted a sewing machine instead of a burberry trinket for V-Day.... so now we're in research mode for one that is user friendly.

I first thought to get a very basic cheapo machine just to try the whole sewing thing out, but a veteran seamstress here in Germany told me very emphatically that my idea was a bad one. She told me to get a Bernina, new or used.

I have a line on a Bernina Minimatic 807 that seems to be very straightforward (and I even have access to instructions in English, yay!) It's a second-hand machine that's quite old, but has been well maintained and runs really well, from what I'm told. It has all the original accessories, and I can get it for about 100 bucks. I figure this is a good deal since I won't feel too badly about it if I decide that sewing is not for me.

Anyone have one and want to comment on how it'd work for a beginner? I can't take sewing classes right now as I haven't progressed far enough in my German classes yet. So basic and user friendly are my main concerns.....

Thanks!

If you have the time and opportunity, I'd make the acquaintance of a sewing machine store (s) that sell and service used Berninas. Get a feeling for how they operate. Germany has a reputation for being straight-arrows about that kind of stuff so maybe it is not as important as in the US. But if you like sewing you may be needing a place that can both appraise and service your machine RELIABLY.

Just a thought.

PS Those used machines are going for $600+ in the US. If you decide not to continue sewing, you'll be able to get your money back!