Good Morning, Quilters!
Faye and I just got back from an exciting trip to BERNINA University in Jacksonville, Florida. BERNINA University is a yearly trade show sponsored by BERNINA of America and attended by dealers across the country.
As soon as we stepped foot in the lobby of the hotel, we could feel the energy as happy dealers, who hadn’t seen each other since last BU, enthusiastically greeted one another.
The first event of the week was the “Big Reveal” of new products and promotions. During the rest of the week, dealers had the opportunity to socialize and take a wide variety of classes. The classes include business related instruction as well as technique classes. ( I was invited to teach machine quilting in a classroom with both Q20 and B770 machines.)
Tula Pink Edition Sewing Machines!
The Big Reveal this year were two sewing machines decorated the “Tula Pink” way with polka dots and oil slick metal surfaces. The Tula Pink special editions are B770QE and the B570QE and they come with a bag full of accessories and embroidery patterns. These limited edition machines were HOT! If you are interested, I suggest you get to your dealer as soon as possible!
Adjustable Stippling Foot
For all of us who love to free motion quilt, BERNINA added a new foot, the #73 adjustable stippling foot. The new foot is heavier than the #24 Free Motion Embroidery foot and the foot height is adjustable for different batting thicknesses. I’ve placed an order for one and will let you know what I think!
New BERNINA Bobbin Case
In addition to the new stippling foot, BERNINA has introduced a new bobbin case suitable for many models. The golden-yellow bobbin case is set with higher tension than the standard, black case. Higher tension in the bobbin helps bring the top thread through to the back when quilting through heavy layers.
I can usually create beautiful stitches with the current bobbin case, so I don’t think I’ll order this just yet. However, if you are stitching a project with heavy fabric or thick batting and need a little more bobbin tension, keep the new bobbin case in mind!
Couching Inserts
I’m really excited about the new couching inserts available for the #72 ruler foot. The clips come in a package with three sizes to suit a variety of cords and yarns for couching. The inserts aren’t brand new, just new to me, but offer another option for couching.
FYI-couching is a technique for stitching heavy weight thread, cording or yarn.
More on couching, later this week!
Easy Machine Quilting
I had a great time teaching Easy Machine Quilting to several classes filled with enthusiastic dealers. I am sure they will carry their enthusiasm to YOUR local quilt shop!
BERNINA University 2019
There were more products and promotions, including the B830 and B820 Trade-in and Trade-up program, the Laurastar line of amazing steam irons, a new adjustable height table for the Q20 and so much more! Be sure to check BERNINA.com or better yet, YOUR local dealer!
Overall it was a very exciting, fast-paced week. Faye and I left simultaneously exhausted but energized by the new friends we made and the new things we learned! We can’t wait to share it all with our friends here at LKQ!
What about YOU?
Have YOU tried any new quilting products or techniques lately?
What are YOU working on?
What inspires YOU?
We’d LOVE to hear!
Lori
