If you want a dependable machine for everyday sewing without a long computerized learning curve, the Husqvarna Viking Emerald 116 is worth considering. It sits between basic mechanical starters and feature-heavy mid-range models: enough stitches and helpers for home sewing, without burying you in menus.
Overview
The Emerald 116 is part of Husqvarna Viking’s Emerald range for home sewists. Husqvarna Viking has a long sewing history (the brand lineage stretches well over a century). This model is electronic rather than fully computerized: dials for stitch choice, with consistent needle power as you change speed. It suits hems, crafts, light garments, and home décor more than heavy leatherwork or thick multi-layer quilting.
Key features
- Stitch width up to 5 mm (about 3/16″)
- Stitch length up to 4 mm (about 5/32″)
- Snap-on presser feet
- Adjustable presser foot pressure for different fabric weights
- Built-in needle threader
- One-step (automatic) buttonhole
- Built-in thread cutter
- Carrying handle and hard cover
There is also a Sewing Guide Reference Chart on the machine that suggests foot, stitch settings, tension, and pressure for common fabrics and techniques. That is genuinely useful while you are still learning what settings go with which job.
Stitches
You get 16 stitches and 60 stitch functions in total. That includes utility stitches for construction, tri-motion stitches for knits and reinforcement, plus a few decorative options and the one-step buttonhole. It is not a huge library, but the mix matches everyday sewing better than a long list of novelty stitches you rarely use.
Accessories
Eight presser feet come with the machine:
- Utility Foot A
- Utility Foot B
- Buttonhole Foot C
- Adjustable Blind Hem Foot D
- Zipper Foot E
- Non-stick Glide Foot H
- Edging Foot J
- Automatic Buttonhole Foot R
The accessory kit also includes bobbins, a screwdriver, seam ripper, quilting guide, and needles. The hard cover is a practical plus if you store or move the machine often.
Sewing performance
In use, the Emerald 116 handles common fabrics such as cotton, linen, and wool cleanly. With the right needle and foot it also manages medium weights like denim and corduroy, and can cope with trickier surfaces such as satin or velvet when you take your time. It is not the machine for leather, suede, heavy canvas, or thick quilt sandwiches. For those jobs you need something with more power and clearance.
Control is steady for general sewing. The manual explains setup, threading, and stitch selection clearly, which helps if you are still learning the basics.
Strengths and limitations
Strengths: easy to learn, useful stitch set for the class, adjustable foot pressure, one-step buttonhole, strong accessory pack, and a hard cover. It feels like a machine built for regular home use rather than occasional mending only.
Limitations: tension is manual (no automatic tension), there is no needle up/down button, and there is no adjustable speed limiter. Those extras appear on the higher Emerald 118. Most beginners will not miss them every day, but they matter more for precise pivoting and controlled freehand work.
Who it suits, and the verdict
The Emerald 116 fits beginners, hobby sewists, and anyone who wants a straightforward everyday machine for garments, crafts, and home projects in normal fabric weights. Look elsewhere if heavy materials or advanced computerized features are central to your sewing.
Overall, it does what most home sewists need: clean stitches, simple operation, and enough accessories to start without another shopping trip. Missing a few convenience buttons is fair trade for that clarity. In the US it usually prices above bare-bones beginners and below fully computerized mid-range machines; check the product box for the current dollar figure. If you want an easy machine to learn on that still covers more than bare-bones basics, the Emerald 116 is a strong candidate.
Manuals, warranty, and registration
Manuals: Download manuals from husqvarnaviking.com support or your authorized dealer.
US: US warranty and registration typically run through authorized Husqvarna Viking dealers. Keep your dated receipt.
UK / EU: Confirm warranty and registration with your national Husqvarna Viking distributor or dealer.
Official site: Husqvarna Viking.