I had the fortunate opportunity to attend Bernina University (BU) in Washington DC earlier this week. As a part-time employee this was a very nice chance to get inspired and educated on all the new things Bernina has coming out this year.
The classes I took were mostly focused on ideas for new projects/classes for the upcoming year and sales techniques.
Class 1: 580 Reasons to Sew on a Bernina
In this class we worked on the 580E machines, my current favorite in the line (or it was until I saw the new 780!). The project combined many of the great features of this machine including machine embroidery using the absolute check feature, decorative stitches using a variety of specialty feet, and buttonholes. We made a pretty holiday pillow cover using a black linen table runner blank. I didn’t get to complete my entire project but did come home with the instructions to do so when I have time. I think this project will make a fun class to feature the 580 and machine embroidery.
Class 2: In the Loop
This was a serger class and we made a really cute ruffled purse using T-shirts. I did finish this project and was pretty happy with the results. I am going to redo it and try to write up a simplified version as a tutorial. I also plan to make this project into a serger class for the store. I really like the technique for making the ruffled fabric and look forward to playing with it more and seeing what other projects it can be used in.
Class 3: Just Sew It
We use the 380 machine for this class and it focused on quick, simple projects for beginner sewers. I was a little reluctant about this class before it began because I thought it would probably be stuff that I had already done or knew but I was pleasantly surprised. I did get a lot of good ideas and inspiration. We made three projects from the upcoming Just Sew It e-book; a tissue packet holder, a mug rug and a small photo album/notebook cover. They were all presented in a fun, fresh way that I think our beginner sewers will like. They will make nice holiday gift ideas and Make & Take projects.
Most impressive were the new 7-series machines. I didn’t get to take the classes where I could sew directly on these new machines but my co-workers did and reported that they were very impressed with these machines. I did get to see them up close and really liked what I saw. So much so that I am now planning on purchasing a 780 for myself. After 12 years it is time for my trusty and reliable 180E to be retired.
On that note I’ve decided that in order to be able to afford this new Wonder-Machine I need to sell a couple of my old machines. I am even willing to send my beloved 180 off to other pastures so I can make room for new.
But most of all I need to sell the last of the remaining Viking machines I had in my store classroom. I have one 870Q Viking that has been stored away and hardly used. I still have all the original packing boxes, manuals, and accessories. It is in what I would consider like-new condition. Even when I had the store this machine rarely got used.
It listed for $2200 new, I sold its twin 2 years ago for $1200. I’m willing to consider any reasonable offer at this time. Local buyers also have the option of having me give them a free lesson on how to use this machine. I am offering it here on my blog and Facebook now to my readers and plan on listing it on Ebay next week if I don’t get any offers.
I also have a large collection of patterns that I am planning to start listing here or on my etsy shop in the very near future. Just need to move the scanner upstairs and get a system set up to get them entered and listed. I have vintage, new, independent designers, quilt and craft patterns. Something for everyone!
Once I have my new machine I will be ready to part with my 180E and will be listing that here as well. My ultimate plan is to have the new 780E and a smaller, simpler machine for Emma to start sewing on again. I don’t know if that will be a 3-series Bernina or just something cheap and simple that I find used somewhere.
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