Portable sewing machine from Husqvarna Viking

More than 20 years ago, I purchased my first Husqvarna Viking sewing machine for $500. Looking back, I remember thinking that was an outrageous amount of money to spend, even for someone who considers herself a good seamstress and quilter. 

Today, Husqvarna Viking machines can run as high as $10,000 as the demand for machines that can tackle major home décor projects such as embroidery has increased, said Carol Ann Williams, a staff member and instructor at Pollard’s Sew Creative in Pasadena.

Husqvarna Viking’s newest sewing machine, the H Class 100Q, is priced for the rest of us: It retails for about $499, although Pollard's is offering an introductory price of $399.

At a demonstration at Pollard's last week, I found the H Class 100Q to be user-friendly. The controls are easy to read, and I liked that it did not have an overwhelming number of bells and whistles. At 15 pounds, this is a manageable machine for beginners and pros alike who want to transport a machine to a sewing class or take it on the road. 

More than 20 quilting and utility stitches are included, and a one-step buttonhole attachment takes the guesswork out of sizing. Simply place the button on the snap-on attachment, and the machine figures it out for you. A "needle up down" function allows for pivoting, a "fix knot" function automatically ties off so there is no need for reverse stitching at the beginning and end of every seam, and a start/stop program allows you to sew without the foot pedal.

The machine also has some pretty decorative stitches if that's your thing, adjustable feed dogs for machine quilting and a detachable arm for sewing sleeves.

But the best new feature for this seamstress, 20 years later? A built-in needle threader. Thank you.

The H Class 100Q comes with a hard cover and an accessory case filled with five presser feet, one-step buttonhole foot, five needles, screwdriver, seam ripper/brush, edge/quilting guide, spool cap, felt pad, second spool pin and bobbins. For more information, visit your local dealer.

-- Lisa Boone

Photo: Husqvarna Viking