MSRP $2499 (prices vary by dealer)
pfaff.com
Reviewer: Eileen Fowler

Test driving a sewing machine can be quite similar to test driving a car. Even before it’s out of the box, the first thing I notice about Pfaff’s Quilt Expression 4.0 is how large it is. With a roomy throat size of 10 inches, this is the stretch limo of home sewing machines.

Within a couple of minutes, I have the machine set up and flip on the power switch. Bright dual lights illuminate the entire bed of the machine. And I love the large easy-to-read graphic display.

After checking out the two different ways to wind bobbins, I’m ready to take a tour around the block. Using the knee lift to control the presser foot, I am able to steer the fabric with both hands. As I pause at the end of my first two patches, the presser foot lifts ever-so-slightly, giving me just enough room to slide in the next two pieces. This feature helps me pick up speed and within minutes, I have chain-pieced dozens of patches. Pfaff’s IDT system guarantees an even feed of the top and bottom fabrics for a smooth ride. With a press of a button, the threads are cut and I’m off to the iron.

Reading through the owner’s manual, I see that I can program some features before starting to sew, like automatic tie-off at the beginning or end of the stitching. When I select a fancier stitch (and there are more than 200), the graphic screen recommends a presser foot, a tension setting and tells me if I need a stabilizer. I can change the length or width, taper, or create personal stitches or sequences and then save any of that in the machine’s memory.

This model also has two free-motion settings: the standard spring foot free-motion and Pfaff’s “sensormatic” free-motion where the foot holds the fabric at slow speeds and floats at higher speeds. I was able to negotiate curves, loops and meander with ease to quickly finish my project. Pfaff may have thought of most everything with the Quilt Expression 4.0. Test drive for yourself. It’s one ride you’re sure to enjoy.

By the Numbers

9mm maximum width for decorative stitches

10inches of space to the right of the needle

37 different needle positions for precise topstitching

222+stitches from utility to decorative

Favorites

• Automatic presser foot lift that raises to a pivot position when the needle is set to stop down

• Thread is snipped by a press of a button or when programmed

• Super-sized sewing area to the right of the needle

Appeared in:

January/February 2009