Sewing Machine : Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the best source of information about my sewing machine?

The manufacturer’s manual contains a wealth of information. Frustration, delay, and damage can be avoided by checking the manual. It is the best place to start when searching for answers and knowledge.

Please check the Sewing Machine Manuals page if you need a replacement.

My sewing machine came with plastic bobbins but I prefer metal bobbins. Why didn't I get metal bobbins?

Newer sewing machines are designed differently from previous machines. Using a metal bobbin in a machine designed for a plastic bobbin will damage the bobbin case and may also spoil the timing of the machine.

Replacement parts and spares are available in the sections on sewing machine bobbins and sewing machine bobbin cases.

Why do you list sewing machines on your website with no prices?

Our website reaches both national and local customers. We are dealers for several sewing machine manufacturers. Our dealer agreements state that we may not advertise prices on certain makes and models of machines.

At the same time, our local customers use the website to get information about machines they are going to purchase before they come to the store. Listing these machines without prices gives our local customers the information they need to make a decision. We also remove prices from machines which are out of stock.

I keep hearing the phrase "dealer protected machine". What does that mean?

Our manufacturers have certain machines that may only be sold to customers in our physical store. These machines have features and functions requiring one-on-one presentation and in-store classes to provide the greatest benefit to the customer.

No dealer may sell these machines over the phone or on the Internet and our contracts with the manufacturers prohibit us from discussing pricing.

What is a "factory serviced" machine?

Sometimes a sewing machine has been returned to the manufacturer. When this happens, the machines are stripped down to the component parts and rebuilt. They are repackaged and sent out as Factory Serviced machines, carrying the same warranty as a new machine. Because they have been rebuilt, they must be sold – usually for less – with the FS label.

There are many factory serviced models available on the Factory Refurbished Sewing Machines page.

Help! I've heard that you should not lift the Bernina Artista 830 and Artista 830 LE by the handle because it's too heavy. Is this true?

No. The rumor started because the length and width dials were breaking when the machine was carried by the handles with the dials facing towards your body. Carry it by the handle with the dials facing away from your body to prevent problems.

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