Elna is a Swiss brand renowned for its quality and innovation in the world of sewing machines. With a history dating back to 1940, Elna has been at the forefront of machine sewing technology, continuously pushing the boundaries to meet the evolving needs of sewers worldwide. Their machines are designed with the user in mind, combining ease of use, reliability, and superior stitch quality.
One such machine that embodies Elna’s commitment to quality and innovation is the Elna eXcellence 710. It is part of Elna’s eXcellence series that also include models such as the 580 Plus, 680 Plus and the top tier model, the 780 Plus. It is designed to handle a wide range of tasks, from traditional sewing to quilting and garment construction, making it a valuable addition to any sewing room.
Features of the Elna eXcellence 710 Sewing and Quilting Machine
Size and Power
One of the first things you’ll notice about the Elna eXcellence 710 is its size. It’s a larger machine, with a motor size that surpasses your average sewing machine. This means that the needle penetrating power is greater on the 710, allowing it to easily sew through eight layers of denim, thicker quilts, and even lightweight leather.
Built-in Stitches and Modes
The Elna eXcellence 710 comes with 170 built-in sewing, quilting, and garment construction stitches. The machine features six modes, making it easy to find the stitch you’re looking for without having to scroll through the entire stitch count. The touch panel on the front of the machine makes it easy to access all the buttons and settings you need.
Threading and Stitch Width
Threading the 710 is a breeze, thanks to its horizontal spool pin and built-in needle threader. The machine also features a nine-millimetre width stitch, the widest stitch you can get on a sewing machine.
Accessory Tray and Feed Dog System
The Elna eXcellence 710 is equipped with a large accessory tray, providing ample space for all your sewing needs. The feed dog system on the 710 grabs the fabric in seven places, ensuring smooth and even feeding of the fabric.
Plates and Seam Allowances
The machine also comes with a standard plate and a straight stitch plate for free-motion quilting and piecing. The straight stitch plate is particularly useful for quilters, as it allows for precise quarter-inch seam allowances.
Convenience Features
The Elna eXcellence 710 is not just about power and versatility; it’s also about convenience. The machine features built-in scissors that snip the bobbin and top thread for you, a needle up/needle down feature, and an auto-lock feature that ties the stitch off underneath the garment, keeping it hidden and out of sight.
Durability and Performance
The machine also boasts a large motor, ensuring durability and reliable performance. Whether you’re sewing through eight layers of denim or a stretchy material, the Elna eXcellence 710 handles it all with ease and precision.
Pros of the Elna eXcellence 710
- Versatility: With 170 built-in stitches, the Elna eXcellence 710 is suitable for a wide range of sewing and quilting tasks.
- Ease of Use: Features like the built-in needle threader, auto-lock feature, and touch control panel make the machine user-friendly.
- Powerful Performance: The machine’s large motor ensures it can handle heavy-duty tasks, such as sewing through multiple layers of fabric.
- Large Sewing Space: The machine offers a large sewing space (280 x 120 mm), making it ideal for larger projects.
- Helpful Accessories: The machine comes with 15 presser feet and 2 needle plates, providing great value.
Cons of the Elna eXcellence 710
- Size: The machine is larger than average, which might not be suitable for those with limited space.
- Price: As a high-end model, the Elna eXcellence 710 might be more expensive than other sewing machines on the market.
- Complexity for Beginners: While the machine is user-friendly, its wide range of features might be overwhelming for beginners.
Warranty and Manual
All Elna sewing machines, including the Elna eXcellence 710, come with a standard two-year warranty from the date of purchase. The warranty covers defects in material and workmanship but does not cover consumable parts, routine maintenance, or damages caused by improper use or accidents. You can download the full details of the warranty program and optional extra cover from the official Elna website.
Customers have the option to extend this two-year warranty by an additional one, two, or three years, for a maximum total of five years of coverage. To avail of this extended warranty, you must make a decision within 30 days of the machine’s purchase date.
A detailed user manual of the Elna eXcellence 710 can be found at this link. The manual contains in-depth information on the machine’s features, setup, and troubleshooting, making it an essential guide for users.
Conclusion
In sum, the Elna eXcellence 710 is a sewing machine that embodies the Swiss brand’s renowned quality and innovation. Its power, versatility, user-friendly design, and extended warranty make it a reliable investment for sewing enthusiasts, from beginners to more experienced sewers. Although it may have a few downsides such as its larger size and potential complexity for beginners, the benefits and powerful features it offers far outweigh these concerns, making it a top-tier choice for anyone seeking a reliable sewing and quilting machine.