I bought my first Husqvarna sewing machine in 2004. I’d been asked to make a bridesmaid’s dress, in silk, and decided that my old – and very basic – Brother wasn’t really up to the job. My favourite sewing shop, just off Putney High Street, stocked Husqvarna Viking machines and so I came to splurge a week’s salary on the electronic Freesia 425. It was worth every penny. The experience of sewing with the silky-smooth Freesia was a world away from the clunky Brother and thus started my love affair with Husqvarna Viking. Today, I own three Husqvarna machines: the Freesia (still as good a machine now as the day I bought it); a fiercely-expensive Topaz 50 embroidery machine that probably possesses more processing power than the computers that put the first men into space; and my trusty Huskylock 905 overlocker.
Wild Ireland Haberdashery now carries 5 models of Husqvarna Viking sewing machine and one overlocker: the H|Class E10 and E20, and Emerald 118 (mechanical), the Jade 20 and Opel 690Q (computerised).
All sewing machines feature automatic threading and a 2-year manufacturing warranty, covering parts and labour. Each sewing machine purchase includes a 30-minute introductory session. Some machines benefit from a free extended warranty. Get in touch to find out more or to book a demonstration.
Which sewing machine would suit you?
Quality mechanical, entry level to regular sewist: Onyx 25
The Onyx 25 is the latest addition to the Husqvarna range, filling the gap left by the discontinued Emerald machines. Those who prefer mechanical machines to computerised, but need ‘beyond beginner’ will enjoy this machine. The longer sewing area will also appeal to quilters and those who work on larger projects. We’re currently enjoying testing this machine in-store for a variety of craft and dressmaking projects.
Needle up-down, speed control, programmable embroidery: Onyx 30
The Onyx 30 computerised sewing machine very quickly cemented itself as one of my favourites. It has all those small but useful features that I’m so often asked for: needly up-down, speed control, pedal-free stitching, thread fix and, like its sister machine, the Onyx 25, the Onyx 30 boasts a longer than usual sewing area. The machine boasts 150+ stitches including 2 fonts for personalising your sewing projects, all easily programmable via the LED touch screen. In my view, at €480, the Onyx 30 offers unbeatable value-for-money in terms of features and functionality.
Quilting fanatic: Opal 690Q
The Opal 690Q is a fully-computerised machine that takes the headache out of setting up a free-motion quilting job with the touch of a stylus. It features an exclusive presser foot ‘Sensor System’ that allows perfect feeding of any thickness of fabric, a large 8″ (200mm) sewing area, and extra LED lights to enable accurate stitching in poor light. As well as these special quilting features, the Opal 690Q is an exceptional sewing machine in its own right with automatic thread tension adjustment for different types of sewing, dozens of utility and decorative stitches, including writing fonts, and a comprehensive accessory kit. Click here to read my review …
AMBER S|100 Overlocker
The Amber S100 is a really well-built entry-level overlocker which, if you don’t crave an air-threader, has all the features you’ll ever need for home-dressmaking. What I really like about this machine is that the front opens fully, facllitating easy threading.
AMBER Air S|400 Overlocker
The Amber S400 overlocker is consistently reviewed as one of the best air-threading machines in its price range.
