A sewing machine manufacturer with a long history in the field, Husqvarna Viking or simply known as Viking, is one of the most trusted sewing machine brands today. It is also one of the three brands owned by the American company SVP Worldwide, the other two being Singer and Pfaff.
Viking Sewing Machine History
As the name might telegraph, Husqvarna Viking has its roots in Sweden. The Husqvarna brand began in Huskvarna, Sweden, in 1869. It was founded as a royal arms factory until 1872 when the company decided to turn towards manufacturing sewing machines. The company’s first model was named “Nordstjernan,” or “The Northern Star” in Swedish.
Husqvarna Viking quickly became a success, providing high-quality sewing equipment throughout the next 70 years. The company's enormous success was the Freja model in 1883, which, unlike earlier models, was able to sew stitches in a neat line. It continued manufacturing the Freja model until 1925.
In 1947, Husqvarna Viking introduced its first free-arm sewing machine, the Husqvarna Zig-Zag. This new machine signaled the many more technological advancements that Husqvarna Viking would develop to offer new and more accessible experiences. It introduced the class 20 models in 1953, and they featured features such as a gear shift transmission, a jam-proof hook that needed no oil, and one-piece, cast iron construction.
In 1960, Husqvarna Viking introduced the 2000 model, with color-coded settings and an automatic feed for elastic stitches. The Husqvarna Centennial series in 1972 was the first sewing machine that did not require lubrication from the user. Finally, in 1979, Husqvarna Viking debuted Model 6680, its first computerized sewing machine, and the 6690 became the world's first “writing” sewing machine, as it was able to sew letters. From that point on, the company continued advancing its products to meet its customers' ever-changing needs.
Model Series
Husqvarna Viking has a variety of different machines explicitly created for diverse tasks. Some of the sewing models include Designer Epic 2, Designer Ruby 90, Designer Sapphire 85, Designer Topaz 40 and 50, Designer Jade 20 and 35, Epic 95Q, Brilliance 75Q, Sapphire 930, Opal 650, 670 and 690Q, Emerald 116 and 118, HClass E10 and E20, and the upcoming Amber Air SI600.
Husqvarna Viking’s embroidery machines produce outstanding results with incredible time-saving conveniences. One of the embroidery models is Platinum MN 1000.
The overlock machines and sergers of Husqvarna Viking combine ease of use with professional results. They offer precise trim and bind ravel-free seams that add decorative finishes to your projects. The modes offered are Huskylock S21, Amber Air SI400, Amber Air SI100, and HClass 250S
For those interested in quilting, there are also some good quilting machine models like Platinum Q160 and Platinum Q165. These machines can also be used for longarm quilting.
Location & Contact Information
The Husqvarna Viking sewing machine headquarters were initially in Huskvarna, Sweden. Since the brand’s acquisition by SVP Worldwide, they have several locations all around the world, but some of its machines are manufactured in Shanghai, China. SVP Worldwide’s global corporate headquarters are in Nashville, Tennessee, in the United States.
The Husqvarna Viking sewing machine contact number for assistance is 1.800.446.2333
Where To Buy Viking Sewing Machines
Husqvarna Viking sewing machines are sold in retail stores all around the world. Moreover, the SVP Worldwide group has partnerships with many big-chain retailers that sell these sewing machines in all of their locations throughout many countries.
You can also find Husqvarna Viking sewing machines online, which can be helpful for prospective buyers as websites usually include reviews from previous customers. Therefore buying your Viking sewing machine online might allow you to make a more well-educated decision.
Best Viking Sewing Machine
Husqvarna Viking has a great selection of different sewing machines with features to please even the most demanding customers. Below, we will go through the best Husqvarna Viking sewing machine in each category.
1. Best Viking Sewing Machine For Beginners – Husqvarna Viking Emerald 118
This user-friendly sewing machine is perfect for beginners who want to take it slow and learn how to sew at a more manageable pace. While this seems to be one of the simpler Husqvarna Viking, it actually comes with plenty of features that can please even more experienced seamstresses.
One of the really helpful features is the needle up/down feature, which allows you to stop sewing with the needle in the down position, holding the fabric in place. You can also adjust the speed, making detailed work easier.
Moreover, this sewing machine is very lightweight, which makes it easy to move if needed. However, the cover seems to be slightly unstable when you place it over the sewing machine, which can make its move a bit scary. Another thing to note about the cover is that you cannot place it over the sewing machine with the foot control still plugged.
- Up to 5 mm stitch width and 4 mm stitch length
- 70 stitch functions
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Snap-on presser feet
- Thread cutter
- Built-in handle for portability
- Built-in needle threader
- Built-in ruler
- One-step buttonhole
- Drop feed
- Needle stop up/down
- Rotary hook system
- Electric speed control
2. Best Heavy Duty Viking Sewing Machine – Husqvarna Viking Jade 20
This heavy-duty sewing machine is great as it allows you to sew a variety of materials and make all sorts of creations. The sewing space is also quite ample, enabling you to have more freedom to work on various projects. The Jade 20 is perfect for quilting and any decorative sewing.
While it is generally easy to be used by beginners, this sewing machine has an array of exciting features that will appease many intermediate users. You need to make sure that you go through the provided instruction manual in depth because otherwise, you might find it more challenging to use those extra features. Perhaps it would be more helpful to try each function while you read the manual, so you can test them yourself one by one. It will also help you learn using the machine faster.
Budget-wise, considering everything you get with the Jade 20, the price is very reasonable. As a matter of fact, it is usually hard to find a machine with that large sewing space at this price point. Moreover, it is very easy to move the machine and store it in your space, thanks to its cover, handle, and accessory compartment.
- Start/stop function
- 200mm sewing space
- Sewing guide
- Needle stop up/down
- 82 7mm wide stitches
- One-step buttonholes
- Mirror image side-to-side
- Drop feed teeth
- 29 needle positions
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Speed control
- Uniquely designed accessory compartment
- Built-in needle threader
- LED Lights
3. Best Computerized Viking Sewing Machine – Husqvarna Viking Designer Epic 2
This sewing and embroidery machine is packed with exciting features that make your sewing experience easy, productive, and more joyful.
Through the touch tablet-like screen, you can access the menu and see all the features included. You also get access to an entire library of embroidery designs that you can choose from directly on your screen. The library will be automatically updated with more designs if you are connected to Wi-Fi. You can also download the appropriate apps on your smartphone and do updates, transfer designs between devices, and place your embroidery design by transferring photos to the machine.
- Integrated dual-feed technology
- Adjustable laser sewing guidance
- Interactive tutorials, user's guide, sewing instructions, and more
- Large working area
- Fully automatic needle threader
- Multi-function foot control capability
- Exclusive sensor system technology
- Embroider buttonholes and decorative stitches in the hoop
- Automatic jump stitch trim
- On-screen embroidery design customizing
- Embroidery speed up to 1,000 stitches per minute
- Over 840 stitches up to 54mm wide
- 37 needle positions
- Stitch balance for multi-directional stitches
- Three free-motion settings
- Four hoop positions
- Customized accessory tray with unique compartments, including presser feet in alphabetical order, straight stitch plate, and sensor buttonhole foot
4. Best Viking Sewing Machine For Quilting – Husqvarna Viking Sapphire 875
Husqvarna Viking Sapphire 875 is a great quilting machine that will allow you to work with a variety of materials and add detail to any projects you take on. You get a lot of stitch options for decorative purposes and five alphabet fonts, including a cursive, which allows you to personalize every one of your creations.
This quilting machine has so many features, and each one helps you make your quilting work easier. This can be helpful, especially to beginners, who might find other machines more challenging. One of the best parts of this machine is that it has a very descriptive manual that explains every function very well. The Sapphire 875 is an excellent machine for a novice user to learn how to sew.
A difference from other machines is that the Sapphire 875 has a pair of buttons that can be found on the front that you can press so you can adjust the presser foot instead of the traditional lever.
- Built-in needle threader
- Automatic tension adjustment
- Bobbin sensor
- Seven buttonholes
- 175 stitch options
- Five alphanumeric fonts
- Non-stick glide plates
- Decorative tapering
- Thread nets
- Edge/quilting guide
- Two bright LED lights
5. Best Basic Viking Sewing Machine – Husqvarna Viking HClass E10
The HClass E10 model from the Husqvarna Viking brand is a basic sewing machine that does not overcomplicate the process of sewing for beginners but maintains Husqvarna Viking’s standard features that more experienced users would need.
While the machine is very reliable, you cannot adjust a lot of its functions to add more detail because it is a basic model. However, suppose you are just learning how to sew, and you do not attempt to do any over-complicated projects. In that case, you will not encounter any problems, and you will not feel limited by the machine’s capabilities. As always, make sure to go through the instruction manual before you start using it so you will not run into any problems.
Another great advantage is that it is very easy to move due to its smaller size. Most importantly, the price is just right. This machine is very affordable, making it easy for beginners to invest in their first sewing machine.
- Mechanical sewing machine
- 4mm stitch length
- Four-step buttonhole
- 20 decorative and utility stitches
- Fixed width
- Built-in needle threader
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Drop feed
- Snap-on presser foot
- Free motion capability
- Softcover
- Exclusive Swedish design
- Easy stitch selection
6. Best Portable Viking Sewing Machine – Husqvarna Viking HClass 100Q
If you are looking for a sewing machine that you can transport everywhere you go, then the Husqvarna Viking HClass 100Q is exactly what you are looking for. Its compact structure and small size make it easy to store.
When you pack it, you can use the built-in accessory tray to keep all the accessories so you won’t lose them. Once you seal the power cord and foot control inside and then slide on the cover, you are ready to take your sewing machine wherever you want.
While the machine is considered a basic model, being easy to use for beginners, it also has a few features for more intermediate semesters. However, you should know that if you plan to work on more heavy-duty projects, perhaps this sewing machine is not the right choice for you.
- 20 built-in stitches, including quilting
- Compact and lightweight at just 15 lbs (7kg)
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Adjustable thread tension
- Start/Stop button
- Needle stop up/down
- Adjust stitch width up to 7mm
- Extra-high presser foot lift
- Automatically set stitch length and width
- Feed teeth lever
- Built-in needle threader
- Speed control slide
- Accessory kit that includes six presser feet, bobbins, screwdriver, seam ripper, one package of needles, and a quilting guide
Viking Sewing Machine Accessories
Besides good features, good sewing machine accessories can make the difference between a good and an excellent sewing experience. The thread, the oil, the presser feet, the power cords, the feet controls, and the bobbins are things you need to carefully look for as not everything will work with your sewing machine. Let’s take a look at the best accessories for a Husqvarna Viking sewing machine.
1. Best Thread For Viking Sewing Machine – Madeira Polyneon 18 Spool Thread Kit
This spool thread kit includes a large variety of beautiful colors that allow you to get creative with your sewing projects. Moreover, the quality of threads is superb, making it an excellent accessory for new seamsters to start working on making new creations.
Many consider Madeira the best embroidery thread on the market. The set includes eighteen 400m spools of Madeira's colorfast Polyneon embroidery and quilting thread. The pure polyester fibers resist breakage, even at the highest embroidery stitch speeds. One spool has enough thread for about 80,000 stitches or 80 embroidery designs, and each has double locking end caps. They come in a dust-proof plastic container. Thread colors may vary.
2. Best Oil For Viking Sewing Machine – Fine Point Oiler with 30 wt. Light Sewing Machine Oil
This multi-purpose synthetic-based oil is ideal for sewing machines, as well as sergers. It also has a pocket clip for easy carrying. It contains 25 fl oz.
As mentioned earlier, Husqvarna Viking has made most of its sewing machine models since 1972 not to require oiling. However, many older sewing machines require frequent oiling, like the Model 2000, Class 20, or Husqvarna Zig-Zag.
It is recommended that you oil your machine every month to maintain its effectiveness and functionality. Make sure to check your sewing machine’s manual for instructions for proper oiling techniques.
3. Best Presser Feet For Viking Sewing Machine – Husqvarna Viking Edge Stitching Foot
This presser foot is manufactured explicitly by Husqvarna Viking to work for some of the brand’s models such as Designer I, II, III, Designer SE, Quilt Designer, Quilt Designer II (7), (7A)Sapphire 830, 850, 870, Diamond, Topaz 20, 30.
This 1/4″ foot is very stable and helps you sew straight as a line. It is also preferred by sewing teachers as a helpful tool to teach new seamsters the art of sewing. It is also perfect for quilting.
4. Best Power Cords – Husqvarna Viking Control Power Cord
If you are looking for a power cord for your foot control pedal, then this Husqvarna Viking cord is exactly what you are looking for. You should note that this cord is only for new-style machines and not for older models.
It is compatible with the following Husqvarna Viking sewing machine models: 90, 95, 100, 105, 150, 180, 190, 600 (except the Rose model), 610, 620, 630, 630NS, 940, 945, 950, 960, 980, 990, 990S, 3800, 3900, 4800, 4900, 8400, 8600 and 8800.
It can also work with the following White sewing machine models: 910 and 8910
5. Best Feet Controls – Husqvarna Viking Foot Control
This electric foot control pedal, made explicitly for Husqvarna Viking sewing machines, will allow you a pleasant work experience. You have to make sure that the end cord of the foot control pedal matches the machine’s receptacle.
The sewing machine models that match this foot control pedal are 905 and 910. It can also work with White sewing machine models such as SL234D.
6. Best Bobbins – Husqvarna Viking Clear Bobbin (10-Pack)
This 10-pack of clear bobbins will fit most sewing machines made by Husqvarna Viking. Before you make your purchase, you need to verify what style of bobbin is suitable for your machine. Therefore, make sure to check your manual before ordering any bobbins online.
There are also 20-pack and 50-pack options for order, based on the quantity you need.
These bobbins match Husqvarna Viking sewing machines from the Group 1 category, which includes Orchidea, 1250, #1+, 1200, 1100, 1090, 1070, 1070 S, and 1050.
Conclusion
Husqvarna Viking is one of the oldest sewing machine brands, and it originates in Sweden. Now part of SVP Worldwide, along with its two other contemporary sewing machine companies, Singer and Pfaff, they reign supreme in the global market.
Husqvarna Viking has a large variety of models that can be used for different projects thanks to its diverse and valuable features. Many of them are easy tools for people interested in learning how to sew. Other machines are for working on more heavy-duty materials such as leather, jeans, and more. Some machines specialize in quilting and embroidery, which come with different features that specifically address the needs that arise with this specific type of work.
Husqvarna Viking is known for its cutting edge quality and the incredible technology used in its computerized machines that make sewing a far less copious process. Many of the machines have touch screens, can connect to WiFi, have access to online libraries that include embroidery designs, and more. With some of the latest computerized sewing machines, you can also connect to it through your smartphone and perform various tasks such as doing updates, transferring files for your designs, etc.
Other people look for multi-functional sewing machines with an array of features, while others prefer more basic models. Moreover, some people value the ability to easily transfer their sewing machine around, as they take it with them to different places such as sewing classes.
Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to top-quality sewing machines, but thankfully, Husqvarna Viking can please all of its customers and even those with the most demands. Even though it has changed hands throughout the years, Viking has remained true to its roots and has maintained its outstanding quality by still manufacturing its machines in Sweden while also staying up with the market needs.
