BY DESIGN : Buttonholes Were Just the Start

In the beginning, the sewing machine stitched forward. Eventually, it could go backward, zigzag and perform simple embroidery. When it began doing buttonholes, most sewers thought, “Wow!�

These days, along with the old-fashioned options, most machines come with bobbin alert systems, hand-free presser-foot lifters and self-adjusting tension systems. Computerized and embroidery machines offer even more features, and sergers, once used only for industrial sewing, are now widely available for home use.

Here’s a look at some of the priciest high-tech machines on the market:

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Bernina 1630 Inspiration Plus; $3,699. If the Bernina 1630 were a car, it would be a Rolls-Royce. It has a PC-like screen for displaying options and a command ball, or mouse, for selecting them. The 1630 comes with design software, five typefaces for monograms, 16 directional sewing options and a speed monitor. Bernina, a Swiss company, offers free classes, videos and books with the purchase of this machine. For more information, call (708) 978-2500.

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Janome Memory Craft 9000; $3,799. The Memory Craft 9000 is in the same league as the Bernina 1630. Automatic patchwork and professional-style embroidery are among the options on its touch-screen machine. It also comes with design cards featuring commercially produced embroidery patterns that can be altered and instructions for individual creations. Quilters have access to six popular patchwork patterns via the New Jersey-based manufacturer, New Home Sewing Machine Co. Sewing features include one-step buttonholes, automatic thread tension and a cloth guide for sewing straight seams. For more information, call (201) 825-3200.

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PFAFF Tiptronic 6230; $1,699. The home sewer who wants the advantages of modern technology without the computerization will feel comfortable with the Tiptronic 6230, from Europe. The old-fashioned hand wheel has been replaced with an electronic push-button system that allows sewers to change the motor speed, offers an automatic basting system and automatic needle positioning. The Tiptronic also features 69 built-in decorative stitches, including an overlock stitch for professional-looking seams, automatic needle threading, a jam-proof rotary hook and built-in stitch guide. For more information, call (800) 99-PFAFF.