Is Designer Epic 3 Good, Bad, Or Downright Ugly?
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 29 มิ.ย. 2024
- Discussing good, bad, and ugly of Viking Epic 3. LIKE, SHARE AND SUBSCRIBE / @thimblebook . Your Support is greatly appreciated. =)
00:00 - Features
07:55 - Warranty
09:50 - Reviews on prior models
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Thanks for watching. What are your thoughts about the Viking Epic 3?
I can’t believe how much that machine cost that’s insane your site is very helpful. Thank you.
I think I'll get a car.
😂
My first Epic was a lemon. It was in the shop more than it was in my sewing room. I threatened to sue for the lemon law, and they gave me a new one. I think the company I bought it from sold me the demonstrator. But I can’t prove it. I’ve been a Viking owner since 1981. I was a seamstress and had my own business. And put about $18k through. But my sadness is that the were so precise, but since they turned them over to china and are mass marketed. I’m retired so I will never be able to buy another one. I still love my Epic. ❤
I'm sorry to hear you had such a problem with other machine. But, I'm glad you were able to get a replacement. Thanks for watching 🙂
Your evaluation is objective and straightforward. First, the price is absolutely OUTRAGEOUS. Granted, it has hundreds of stitch patterns, designs, fonts, buttonholes but WHO is going to use these features on even an occasional basis? You mentioned the machine has a very large hoop, but what would it be used for? Of course, using this machine would probably be complicated and frustrating. The machine is BIG and bulky, perhaps not compatible with existing sewing space.
It is especially helpful that you shared information about Husqvarna's quality issues--it's a widely known "secret" that machines were sold with known engineering design flaws, parts are difficult or impossible to get, machines often have to be sent back to the factory for repairs and customers may wait MONTHS for turn around. Quality control is inconsistent, customer service is often lacking, most local dealerships TRY to serve customers but corporate doesn't support them...
This is true. All of these companies are appearing to be very out of touch with their core audience and its desires in a sewing machine.
@@ThimbleBook Disagree, their core audience is mostly made up of quilters and folks who do lots of embroidery and the Epic 3 has way more upgrades for them than us ordinary garment sewers. They do a lot of outreach and customer surveys before designing a new machine, at least Viking and Pfaff do. I've said it a couple of times here already, it all comes down to the dealer. Lousy dealer, lousy service and sometimes user error.
This really comes down to the type of sewist a person is. If you sew simpler projects, an occasion hem, button replacement, etc, this would be a lot of machine for no reason. However, those who quilt, embroider, and are more of an all-around sewist would find the many features, stitches, and tools very useful. It is indeed a large/heavy machine, but I imagine it was never meant to be a travel machine. This really isn't different from any other brand with a comparable machine. Those who free motion quilt or do ruler work are especially appreciative of that large work space. The large hoops are handy to those working on large projects without the hassle of rehooping and aligning their designs. Think of a home decor sewist who's making pillows or embroidering curtains. As for space issues, that really isn't a fault of the company. Folks know what space they have to work with. So far, I've been ok with it sitting atop a 6ft table and still have room to set my 24x36in cutting mat. The machine some had the same footprint as the first 2 Designer Epic models, so folks won't have to worry about purchasing a new cabinet. As for price, it is indeed expensive. Many hobby tools are. Think of some fishing boats. A high-end motorcycle. A camper. Heck, SnapOn tool storage. I'm not saying it should be expensive, but it isn't extraordinarily different than the high-end tools of many other hobbies.
@denisem9407 Thank you! I'm reading through some of the reactions, and it's clear that they are not embroidery sewists or quilters. Not that there is anything wrong with that. But if folks are appalled by the size of the machine and it's hoops, they really don't understand what quilters and embroidery sewists look for. This would be a lot of machine for someone who does simple mending, repairs, small projects, and perhaps garment sewists who could care less about decorative stitches and wide space. But quilters who can't get a long arm into their home can totally appreciate this. Home decor artists who want to embroider pillows in one hooping instead of multiple hooping would be in love with those large hoops.
This machine perfect for machine quilting! My dream machine. You did a wonderful job explaining this machine.
Wow! Thank you for all your hard work, this will definitely help me rethink my future wish list.
Thank you for your reviews
Wow thanks for that very informative!
I have an Epic 1. I have had no issues at all. However, I am thinking that my next machine will be along the lines of Pfaff Icon. Thank you for this non biased information! It will help me in my decisions regarding any future upgrades with my machine.
I own a Ruby 90 that I love...also have a great technician an hour away that I trust in NC...as with any machine you can get a lemon...just make sure wherever you purchase your machine you will get free training/classes and that they have a reliable repair tech. Happy Sewing!
I look into buying the Bernina 790 Pro. I wanted the Pfaff ICon 2 but after this enlightenment about poor customer service and waiting months for repair. I will reconsider anything to do with VSM.
Customer service depends on your dealer. I've never had any customer service issues with any Viking, Pfaff or Bernina but I have a great dealer. Issues are common when a new machine comes out, even some high-end Bernina owners complain about customer service. I'm not certain this review is entirely even handed.
I also have the Bernina 790 plus and the Viking Epic 1. I have never had any problems with my Viking, but would almost be afraid of an upgrade. The Berninas seem so solid compared to the Vikings. I would also be interested in a review of a Babylock.
Love my Bernina 930 💕💕💕
Fabulous sewing machine and I sew every day. It's very expensive for our budget.
I just bought a Husqvarna Viking Epic 2 for a great price because someone did a trade in for the Epic 3. I got it from my neighborhood authorized dealer. If you don’t want the top of the line machine consider a used machine. My dealer knows which machines have problems and which don’t. My dealer has a bunch of really good techs that know their machines.
Thanks for this.
WOW, This video is EXCEPTIONAL and Very Detailed!!!! I don't have this machine. What I have is the Designer Topaz 30. But this Topaz, after about 1.5 million stitches, started to have some problems regarding the upper and bobbin thread tensions, producing lots of bird nests. It was taken to the local official Viking dealer, and was told both those parts had to be replaced, and that its cost was about the same price as the machine, more than 2100.00USD!!! Well, that machine is seating now in my home. For that money, I was able to get an used Bernina B830, revised it, and that machine is doing beautiful embroidery, and has a 14in x 10in hoop that I use for when I am doing embroidery for quilts or drapes, two very heavy items. It is not as modern as this Epic 3, but is working flawlessly despite being a 2009 machine. After this Bernina, I got two more used Berninas, and they work wonderfully, and when they have parts issues, they are able to find parts much faster and cheaper than with the Viking, and the repairs last longer. I am planning to stay with Bernina now. What I miss from Viking are those continuous 10 x 7 and 5 x 7 Borderless Hoops that Bernina doesn't have. I wonder if Singer has the same issues as the Viking, because Singer is part of that SVP group, but I want a machine which can use those two hoops, they are so convenient and easy to use, but with Viking/PFFAF machines being so expensive, and so many problems, I doubt I would get one of those ones. I guess I will have to settle for a lower price Viking/PFFAF machine that could use those hoops that I love!!!! Thank you for your magnificent video!!!! Its so informative, and your explanations are so clear and concise, God Bless you for your teaching talent!!!!!
Thanks for your response. It will be interesting to find out more about the hoops.
@@ThimbleBook Thanks for your kind reply. Those hoops can only be used on the mid- to high level embroidery machines. Those hoops are excellent for Endless Embroidery coz you don't have to take the hoop off the embroidery unit to re-locate the fabric. It has a system that lifts the upper hoop to re-locate the fabric, and then, with a lever, it drops down and makes pressure on the fabric. It works better than magnetic hoops at least for me. My Bernina machines use magnetic hoops, and they are more difficult to re-position the fabric. My topaz 30 was a mid level model, but doesn't work at all, the upper and lower tension systems are bad, producing lots of bird nests all the time. And I will add that I have been receiving emails from Husqvarna Viking regarding the EPIC 3 problems, specially the Embroidery Unit for which they are providing software updates, but also offer to exchange the embroidery unit in case the updates don't work. The problems are that the embroidery unit is not working very well with the recognition of the hoops producing erratic embroidery, and that is worse with the biggest two hoops. I think that with those early problems, is unacceptable for a machine this expensive. For that money, I can get a Multi-needle embroidery machine that also have hoops that big, and still have 5-7k USD in my pockets for supplies and entertaining. And my Bernina B830 stitches at 1100 spm,and 1000 spm during embroidery, faster than this Viking, but I don't go that fast, at most 700-800 spm for safety and quality of results, for both sewing and embroidery. All the Bernina machines are extremely solid built, though not as advanced as the Epic 3, but they work flawlessly, and all accessories are interchangeable. What I miss are those Borderless Hoops from Viking, maybe I will adapt them to the Berninas........
I used to own 2 Designer Diamonds. I traded one for the newer Ruby 90. I chose that one instead of the Epic because some of the features were a waste of time and the extra money for what I wanted to use it for. So far Ruby 90 has been great. Getting close to maintenance time though, so hopefully 🤞🏻 I won’t have to wait too long.
The Ruby 90 is a very nice machine. Congrats
Huge monograms in that large hoop-- home pillow shams, drapes, etc.
Sewing machine technicians are in short supply which complicates the repair process. As an owner of a Brother Luminaire, Viking Epic2 and 3, and a Long Arm, it is difficult to find someone to do routine maintenance on my machines. I often have to drive an hour or more to find an authorized technician. I think, if you research other brands, you will find the same complaints about service times and delays in parts, etc. It is not only a problem with Viking but with all brands. In order to become an authorized technician, you must own a dealership or work with a dealership. The sewing machine companies make it difficult to learn the skills needed to repair their machines. That being said, the servicing of sewing machines an industry wide problem.
I would like to complement you on the details and research you conducted prior to making your video. Your consideration of size and weight were on point. It is a large machine and takes up a lot of space.
Thanks for watching and commenting. Sewing centers are shrinking as more businesses switch from brick and mortar to online . Therefore, the industry needs to change the criteria for becoming a service tech. If they offered courses to sewing and related embroidery businesses, it would increase the amount of service technicians available.
As of this past week, Husqvarna Viking has increased their warranty to an additional 3 years for a total of 4 years.
That's great.
I just got to see one in action and really it is a beautiful machine
I have a Designer 1 and love it it is outdated but still works great
I just bought this machine and am new to sewing. I've had 3 issues with the pedal where it gets stuck, and I either have to disconnect the pedal or do a hard shutdown altogether. I've only used it for about 7 hours and it now squeaks like a bunch of mice are in it! So far, not impressed 😕... than again, I am new to sewing. 😜 Am I overreacting?
You might want to see if you can get a new foot pedal under warranty. You will have a much more enjoyable sewing experience with a proper working foot control. No, your not overreacting. If you spent your hard earned money, you should have a proper working system.
No idont think so and I've been buying since the #1 plus sad but going down hill,all they care about is money,when you stop spending your done no help.
Mysewnet is SO much more than an app 😂.
A cloud service (free)
an actual app (also free)
An embroidery library (either ala cart or annual membership that gives you access to 9000+ high quality embroidery designs!
And mysewnet software, 3levels of software, from basic to fully digitizing 😮!
The integrated dual feed is AMAZING
FREE ARM EMBROIDERY!! Are you kidding!? It’s a lovely 🥰 machine!!
Yes. My sew net is awesome and the machine is very very nice . I would even go so far as to say Epic 3 has the most features you can get in any domestic sewing machine on the market. 🙂
Wow, wow, wow. This is so disappointing. I had the Rose model I purchased in 1998 for $2,500.00. In 2020 I purchased a Designer Epic 2, so far, I love it. BUT I also have a Bernina 790 Crystal Edition which I love, love, love. I traded in my Viking Rose when I upgraded to my Bernina at a dealer that sells both brands. That was a mistake, that little Rose machine was great, never had a problem with it, but the parts are no longer made. My local award winning Bernina Dealer is just minutes away from my home with licensed Bernina service technicians on staff inside the store. My Bernina does not leave the store if it’s in for service. However, if I need my Epic 2 repaired or serviced for its annual maintenance I have to drive at least one hour away to a licensed Husqvarna Viking Dealer, which I prefer to do because I don’t like leaving it at the Viking Dealer inside JoAnn’s because the technician has to pick it up and take it out of the store to service it and that makes me a little apprehensive as these machines are not inexpensive. Therefore I choose Bernina over Viking due to ease of service, maintenance and it’s a workhorse, everything on the Bernina is made of metal, including the feet, which is why they are more expensive than the feet for the Epic 2/3. But the Epic 2 doesn’t need to be oiled, my Bernina does, every time I sew. And the Bernina 7 series Bobbins are HUGE! They hold so much thread, much more than the Epic 2’s bobbins . The Epic 2 performs automatic upgrades to the machine, Bernina does not. The upgrade must be downloaded and then Transferred to a USB stick and inserted into the machine. Both machines have perfectly beautiful stitches. The Bernina has the Bernina Stitch Regulator (BSR) which allows for continuous same stitch length while free motion quilting. Viking doesn’t have this feature. Embroidery on both machines is beautiful. They both have their pros and cons. I love them both, but if I could only have one, I would choose the Bernina every time. Just my humble but honest opinion. Your reviews are excellent, you allow the viewer to make their own decision. I decided from your video after I nearly fell off the chair, I will not pay $22,000 for a sewing machine. It’s beautiful and has many bells and whistles but that’s just coo coo. Can you do a review on Babylock machines? That would be very interesting as my Bernina Dealer is also a Babylock Dealer. I find these very interesting and educational, even if I’m not looking for a new machine I enjoy each of your videos, please keep them coming!
Do you have the embroidery module for your 790? I wonder how you like it.
Yes, I do have the Embroidery unit, it's the Bernina 790 plus Crystal Edition. It comes with everything. The embroidery module is easy to use and everything so far, has turned out beautiful. I take classes whenever I can so I can become more proficient using it.
A few of these Epic 3 started out with problems
4:30 it had some nifty bits but nothing I would use often enough to justify that ridiculous price. I have an Epic 1. Does what I need quite nicely.
The Epic 1 is a very nice machine. Hope you are able to get many more years out of it.
Who makes it? What's their target market?
Is made by svp company. The machines are designed in Sweden and manufactured in China. The target audience appears to be retired people with lots of disposable income. However, i dont see very many seniors with 22k to drop on a machine as of late.
@@ThimbleBook I think they're made in a special factory not on mainland China.
So negative. It is a wonderful machine. My experience of both Paff and Husqvarna machines is totally positive. Customer service in the UK is brilliant and I suspect most of the problems in the US are down to poor dealers.
I was really excited about this model of Viking. The only issue I found was the customer service in the USA. Thanks for commenting from across the pond. 🙂
Let me just add, I do love my Epic 2. It has different features than my Bernina 790. I don't have anywhere close to take it for service other than inside JoAnne's which I will not do. It's about 80 miles away to the nearest Viking Dealer. That gives me pause. My Bernina dealer is about 5 minutes away. I have been sewing on my Epic 2 the past few days and it does stitch beautifully. But it's different. Test drive both and see which you love best. This is such a personal preference. It's very subjective and it's like comparing apples and oranges. I will not sell my Epic 2 because if I do, I know I'll be sorry. It's great for piecing. Quilting is 100% Bernina because of the BSR. Embroidery: both modules perform beautifully.
cost
I was a Bernina enthusiast, but recently I have been disappointed for several reasons. So, I was considering purchasing the Epic3 as a replacement. Your video has not encouraged me to do so.
I would encourage you to go test out machines. There is Epic 3, Bernina 790, Pfaff Icon 2, Janome M17, Juki NX7, Babylock Stellair. These are all top of the line machines. But, it is always best to go with the one with a service center in your local area.
22k and it's not even a Bernina
Fortunately not. The worst embroidery machine I owned was a Bernina.
Mine is still not working for the epic 3…since I purchased and have a new Arm and waiting for the new arm. Don’t do it! They sent out a machine that is inadequate. I have yet to get a decent embroidery completed it messed up every time even their own designs. I am giving it one more chance. I have had this machine since it 1st came out and my dealer returned from the conference. Very unhappy! If not corrected I will be requesting my money back!
I am sorry to hear it didn't work out for you. Hopefully, you can find something else that works better for your needs.
I love your review and always support you.
However, As SVP team members I must correct some confusion in this video
- mysewnet is not an app only(not like brother aspir app)It is digitizing software which can be use on the windows/mac, iPhone or android and iPad or tablet devices.
- during your machine service time period and if did not receive your machine within 2 weeks or more you can connect your Viking dealer and speak with the manager and explain about you have on going project you need finish and you can borrow another Viking machine after you sign the paperwork(agreement of return the machine once you receive your machine from the service center) and you can take the machine to your home with no cost from you.
I totally agree with you about their customer service support. Most of the staff members aren’t not provided with enough or professional training. They will have to setup a lot on that.
Oil change after 3000 hours Wow!!!!!
I just bought this machine and am new to sewing. I've had 3 issues with the pedal where it gets stuck, and I either have to disconnect the pedal or do a hard shutdown altogether. I've only used it for about 7 hours and it now squeaks like a bunch of mice are in it! So far, not impressed 😕... than again, I am new to sewing. 😜 Am I overreacting? 0:27 0:27
@@oMnMnMo no your not overreacting, pedal issue in such expensive machine will have me blown away
I repaired Vikings for over 20 years. In all those years I NEVER, not once, had to adjust the timing. A good yearly cleaning where consumers should not be kept the machines in great running order.
If you dont physically own or work with these machines, I wonder at your thinking that allows you to comment. I currently stitch on a 21 year old computerized Viking. My back up machine is a 31 year old computerized Viking. I have several friends with machines of the same age and they still stitch beautifully. Have never had a service issue. Computerized elements are all working without issues.
22,000. Is a eyepopping amount HOWEVER the abilities of these new machines are extraordinary.
Buy from a dealer, take your classes. Gallery stores dont have on site repairs. Classes are minimal, aftercare is sketchy.
I didn't add my personal opinion into the video. Instead, I tried my best to pull together both the positive and negative sentiments from other sources so viewers could get a well rounded perspective. Somewhere between these perspectives, always lies the truth. For this reason, I thank you so much for commenting as your insights adds more flavor to the sauce.
@@ThimbleBook There have been many changes with Husqvarna since my time so maybe that is an issue. Most of their business is conducted through Gallery stores inside JoAnn. Since these are corporate stores no one really has their back to the fire so to speak. An INDEPENDENT dealer has every reason on earth to try and keep their customers happy. Since Viking is now owned by a holding company along with Singer and Pfaff, the main focus is going to be profit. The same thing happened with Singer back in the day. Dealerships slowly vanished, customer support vanished, Singers were just something you picked up at a store with zero expectations of customer support. Corporate wants profit. Dealers are a pain to them, at least that's what I suspect. Dealers make demands, dealers raise 🔥 when they can't keep customers happy. If corporate doesn't support independent dealers those dealers will support other brands.
In my area the independent dealers are Babylock, Janome, Juki. And BERNINA. Bernina SUPPORTS their dealers!
So maybe this whole issue is not the brand name but the DEALERSHIPS!
SUPPORT your local dealer. Buy your machines from a dealer, take the new owner classes at your dealer. Buy your supplies from the dealer, take fun classes at your dealer cause if you support your dealer THEY WILL SUPPORT YOU.
Yep this is my hobby horse. Retail is vanishing because of on line sales. Is Amazon going to support you when you buy a machine on line ?
I will say over and over... Buy ANY machine from an independent dealer. Stop supporting stores that only sell on line or soon they will have complete control over every aspect of your spending. THEY will make pure profit, no stores, nothing to worry about. YOU will just have to deal with whatever quality they want.
Sorry, sort of. For my rant. Cheaper is not always better.
Remember. The practice of THRIFT begins with the purchase of VALUE.