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 Product Review : Pfaff Lifestyle 2022 Sewing Machine

The Pfaff Lifestyle 2022 is a low-end model from Pfaff's product line. It is, however, a great choice for quilters new to Pfaff machines, as it provides sophisticated function without the price tag of higher-end machines. This reliable machine consistently provides uniform stitches as well as features that simplify working up just about any quilting project.

Features

- extra high presser foot clearance
- feed dogs can be lowered externally
- 31 utility and decorative stitches
- four buttonhole stitches
- Integrated Dual Feed (IDF)
- two spool pins, one horizontal and one vertical
- improved control panel design
- two original quilt stitches provide a detailed hand quilted look
- consistently strong needle-piercing power at any speed or through multiple layers

Pros :

The greatest benefits of the Lifestyle 2022 are its pricing and convenient design. Although this model is at the lower end of the Pfaff product line in terms of cost, it boasts many features useful to quilters also found on Pfaff's more expensive models. This makes it an ideal choice for quilters desiring advanced machine function without requiring too large an investment.

The 1.5 inch square display panel carries a wealth of information on the currently selected stitch, including the length, width and density. In addition, it indicates when a stitch has been locked, enabling sewers to begin stitching with confidence. The optimal settings for each stitch are pre-programmed by the manufacturer, but may be altered as needed.

Pfaff's IDF or Integrated Dual Feed system ensures consistent thread-feeding. Unlike some machines without this design feature, it is unnecessary to hold the thread when starting to sew. Stitches remain even and the bottom thread does not loop.

Quilters will also enjoy the bobbin-related features. Through-the-needle bobbin winding is very convenient, reducing mid-project interruptions. It allows the bobbin to be rewound without unthreading the machine. The two spool pins are also a convenient design feature. One generously-size spool may be used for bobbin winding without unthreading the machine.

The 2022 features a 10-key control panel, similar in layout to a telephone. This greatly simplifies entering a stitch number. There are also directional keys allowing the user to scroll through the library to find the desired stitch. Selections are then locked in, eliminating the risk of incorrect stitch settings ruining needles.

This model includes a wide range of stitches that come in handy for a number of projects. The 31 available stitches include two quilting, four decorative, six satin, one cross and sixteen utility stitches. Further expanding the possibilities is the mirror function which allows sewers to create any stitch pattern in reverse.

In addition to the two quilting stitches provided, quilters can get some use from the blanket and satin stitch options for their projects. The blanket stitch works well for edging machine appliqué projects and the satin stitches compliment Crazy Quilt designs.

Cons :

Although the display panel carries a good amount of information, it lacks a suggested thread tension or recommended foot. Sewers must instead, refer to a diagram matching feet and stitches accessible by flipping the machine's top. Thread tension recommendations may be found in the manual. Although neither interferes with the machine's function, it is inconvenient to have to hunt for this information.

Although this model features stitches and functions useful to quilters, it does not include a quarter-inch foot. Quilters either need to purchase the foot separately or use one of the thirteen possible needle positions along with the standard foot to achieve the desired seam allowance.

Quilters will also be inconvenienced by the lack of a needle-down position. This becomes especially bothersome when turning corners. Because the needle automatically returns to the up position, there is a risk of misaligned stitches.

Related : More Sewing Machine Reviews

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