Hi there! I’m Gina, and I’m thrilled to share my latest adventure with the Viking Designer I embroidery sewing machine. Believe me, it was more of a fun-filled exploration than work. If you’re curious, yes, this is the most delightful job on the planet!
The Heart of the Machine: Sensor Foot System
What sets the Designer I apart is its innovative Sensor Foot System. This feature, unique from other machines I’ve experimented with, was the hardest to part with post-review. It transforms sewing into an incredibly enjoyable journey. Forget the traditional presser foot lever; this system uses four intuitive buttons to control the presser foot height, offering a seamless and more engaging sewing experience.
Adapting to the Sensor Foot System
Initially, adapting to the absence of a presser foot lever and using the buttons was challenging. But soon, it became second nature. The system allows for four distinct presser foot positions: fully down, pivot, up, and extra lift, accommodating various fabric thicknesses with ease.
Revolutionizing Sewing Practices
The Sensor Foot System necessitates a slight change in traditional sewing methods. For instance, I couldn’t lower the presser foot and use the needle-down button simultaneously. However, I discovered that combining the Needle-Down button with the Pivot position worked wonders, offering automatic adjustment and a smooth sewing flow.
Exploring Over 700 Stitches
The Designer I boasts an impressive array of over 700 stitches, including a mix of stitch patterns and needle positions. The 19 Specialty Stitch Menus simplify navigating this vast selection. The Quilt Menu alone features 54 stitches, and the Applique Menu presents 16 options. Other highlights include Buttonholes, Alphabets, and a variety of decorative stitches.
The Color Touch Screen: Your Control Hub
Despite its initially challenging position, the color touch screen of the Designer I acts as a central command station, organizing stitches into accessible menus. The screen simplifies stitch selection, enhancing the overall sewing experience.
Machine Quilting and Stippling
For free-motion quilting and applique, the Designer I is a dream come true. Its ease of use and smooth performance are unmatched. The machine also includes a unique mock hand-quilting stitch, adding to its versatility. Stippling options are diverse, offering different sizes and patterns for creative quilting.
Thread and Buttonhole Capabilities
The Designer I handles various threads with finesse, from rayon to metallic, ensuring each stitch is perfect. Its buttonhole features are extensive, catering to a range of sizes and styles, all easily customizable through the touch screen.
Embroidery Features: A Seamless Transition
Transforming the Designer I into an embroidery machine is effortless. The included embroidery hoops and the intuitive color touch-screen make customizing and executing designs a breeze. The machine manages thread changes efficiently, offering a selective thread cutter for a seamless sewing experience.
Software for Artistic Freedom
Viking’s software packages, such as Digitizing, Color Picture Stitch, and Cross Stitch, expand the creative possibilities, allowing for the creation of personalized embroidery designs from various images.
Where to Find the Viking Designer I
Though an older model, the Viking Designer I remains a powerful and user-friendly machine. Once a significant investment, it’s now more accessible in terms of price, often available used in sewing shops or online platforms like eBay.
Table of Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Sensor Foot System | Four-button control for presser foot, eliminating traditional lever. |
| Stitches | Over 700 options with Specialty Stitch Menus. |
| Touch Screen | Central control for stitch selection and customization. |
| Machine Quilting | Smooth, easy quilting with diverse stitch options. |
| Thread Management | Efficient handling of various thread types, including metallic and rayon. |
| Embroidery Features | Easy-to-use hoops and customizable designs. |
| Software Packages | Digitizing, Color Picture Stitch, and Cross Stitch for creative embroidery. |
| Availability | Often found used in sewing shops or online. |
