My mother in law recently purchased this machine for me knowing that I would only be using it for small, simple projects. I was very pleased with the machine she picked out for me because it has plenty of options but is still simple enough that I am not overwhelmed trying to learn how to use it. I have completed a few projects using it and have found it to be a very user friendly machine. Stitch Performance I made some cloth wipes that have been laundered many times and none of the stitches have come out! Likewise the hemming I have done even on heavy fabric has stayed. Ease of Use This machine is very easy to use even for a beginner like myself. Fabric Handling So far every fabric I have put through the machine has done very well. Design This machine is very simple but still has all the features you need. I especially like the storage for bobbins, pins, and the spare feet. I also love that the storage section slides off to allow you to sew things like sleeves that don't fit well otherwise. Durability This machine is very durable and in addition comes with a nice lid.

dlknee

USA

I've had this machine for over two years and I have been very happy with it. I have never had any problems with it. I do alot of sewing on heavy fabrics so I needed something sturdy. It's done very well. It does occasionally get stuck if I am sewing 3 or more layers of fabric but I can typically just reset it and keep sewing slowly through that part. I love the button hole attachment-it makes it SO easy! I do wish the manual went into how to use some of the features a little more but I suppose that would be quite a large book with that many stitches.

poorbutwise

Carson City, NV

I am a seamstress of nearly 12 years and was in desperate need of a dependable basic machine. The previous machine that I used was a computerized machine, which had always bothered me with its constant communication errors. It felt like the computer was the middle man which I didn't need to tell my machine what to do. I was happy to find the Viking Emerald, which was not so advanced that it included a computer mechanism to slow down my work, but advanced enough to have all of the stitches and techniques I needed to do my work as a seamstress. It reacts quickly and accurately when I use it, and has much more strength and power than my previous machine. My major problem with the machine occurred about 2 weeks after I purchased it. The machine slowed considerably, and groaned with every stitch. Even turning the flywheel was extremely hard, as if something had gotten stuck. When I took it in to be fixed, the repairmen said they didn't find a problem. My machine still groans for a few minutes each day, but otherwise works nicely. I'm not sure what the problem is or how it arose, but the machine is working for me and I'll be glad for that until I'm ready to move on.

sennyochan

Orlando, FL

When my husband surprised me with a Husqvarna Emerald for Christmas last year, I was totally surprised. I have done very little sewing the last few years but he knew it was because I got so frustrated with my old machine. I assumed it was a very expensive machine so I felt like I had to sew alot to justify owning it. I was Very relieved to find out how very affordable it was. Free classes are offered and they are very helpful. You can attend as many times as you like and ask as many questions as you need. Class sizes are small so you have some one on one time with the instructor. The machine itself runs very smoothly and has more options than I can imagine ever using but it is nice to know they are there and that there are instructors willing to refresh me on how to use them. Several different "feet" come with the machine for use with a wide variety of fabrics. Care of the machine is also very easy. I love my Husky!

Grammy3Times

Lyles, TN

Having been away from sewing for quite a few years while pursuing a new career, I was amazed with how at ease I felt the first time I sat down to sew with the Viking Husqvarna Emerald #6. There were no complicated steps to learn, but the results were just what I was looking for. Also, if I ever needed more help it was available from the center where I bought my machine at no additional cost. If I should ever decide to upgrade, I would go back to where I purchased this machine without a moment's hesitation.

scfiteach

Clyde, NY

I received this as a birthday gift and have fallen in love with it. I had been using another machine (Bernina), but this Viking machine is very simple to use. I like the needle-threader, bobbin winder, and so much more. The machine is very dependable. It's great for a beginner level sewer. But really, it's just a great basic machine that can handle a lot! This machine has 16 basic stitches. At first, I thought this wouldn't be enough, but I was definitely wrong. I haven't even needed more that a few basic ones. I have been able to complete all sorts of crafts and sewing projects with only a few stitches. I am very happy. This machine comes with a nice plastic carrying case, making it very portable. I have taken it to my grandmother's house many times to sew. It is somewhat heavy, but it's not a problem for me. I like to keep the case on the machine to prevent it from getting lint or dust in it.

bcorrelli

Abingdon, MD

I took up sewing about a year ago when I got this machine for Christmas and have become obsessed! The Viking Emerald 116 is extremely easy to use and purchasing a Viking qualifies you for a free class (which you can take as many times as you want!) on using your machine and how to sew basic stiches, tecniques, etcetera. I have sewn curtains, pillows, pillow covers, clothes, baby clothes and accessories, quilts and more and have had an extremely easy time learning how to do those things. The machine is very reliable and fun to use and if I ever have a question on how to do something, I walk into the local Husqvarna Viking place (usually located inside JoAnne Fabrics) and the ladies will spend hours with me, showing me how to get the most out of my machine or master a technique. If I need to purchase a new foot or needle, they consider my cost and the best product together to come up with the right part. Plus, Viking has a trade-in program to trade up for a better machine if and when you want one. I am more than happy with this machine and have been delighted with how easy it is to use and the high quality that it is, for being a lower-end of the line model. I can't recommend this company and machine highly enough!

Butterhead

San Diego, CA

I've had my Emerald 116 for several years now and I love it.  I'm a fairly frequest sewer and it's held up well.  This machine isn't going to be doing any fancy embroidery and it doesn't have a million different decorative stitches, but it is thoroughly functional for someone who is more into constructing garments and costumes than quilting and other more decorative crafts. Comes with a set of 8 different basic feet (including two general use, blind hem, button hole, and zipper). The Husquvarna site has a lot more detailed info on the specs of the macine, so I'd go take a look at it for stuff like exact stitches and all that. It uses a standard sized needle so no need to go hunting for odd replacement needles, but I have had some trouble finding bobbins for it.  I bought a package of what was supposed to be a generic set of Viking bobbins approved for that machine and they didn't fit. 

costumegoddess

Overland Park, KS