Definition of "Platforms" as it Pertains to Sewing Machines

In the world of manufacturing, a platform refers to a shared set of core design elements, engineering principles, and major components used across multiple models. . . .

Greetings everybody,

Today’s edition of The Sewing Machine Newsletter is going to cover the concept of “platforms” as it pertains to sewing machines and provide a series of real-world examples. I believe that understanding this concept can be particularly helpful for understanding the differences between similar sewing machine models, especially for those in the market for a new machine.

I hope you find it helpful,

— Cale

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Definition of Platforms as it Pertains to Sewing Machines

In the world of manufacturing, a platform refers to a shared set of core design elements, engineering principles, and major components used across multiple models. This approach helps manufacturers streamline production, reduce costs, and maintain consistency in performance and quality.

Understanding this concept is key when evaluating sewing machines. Just as automobile manufacturers build several models on the same underlying platform, sewing machine manufacturers often produce multiple models that share up to 90% of their components. This means that different models—sometimes with significant differences in price—may be more alike than they seem.

Since I’ll be using the term “platform” frequently in this discussion, it’s helpful to keep this definition in mind.

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Baby Lock Presto 2 - $799 | Baby Lock Brilliant - $999

The first example of two machines built on the same platform are the Baby Lock Presto 2 and the Baby Lock Brilliant. Both are excellent choices for beginners and are priced under $1,000. Since they share the same platform, they offer identical sewing power and performance. Notably, both models feature an 8.3-inch throat space—an impressive amount of workspace for machines at this price point. Additionally, they have the same threading system, including an identical needle threader and bobbin winding mechanism.

So why does the Brilliant ($999) cost $200 more than the Presto 2 ($799)? Despite being built on the same platform, the Brilliant offers additional features that justify its higher price. One major difference is knee lift capability, which the Presto 2 lacks. If you examine the area where the knee lift should be on the Presto 2, you’ll notice that the manufacturer has simply designed the Presto 2’s cover so that it doesn’t have a hole over the opening, where the knee lift hole hole is located, preventing access to this function. Additionally, the Brilliant boasts a larger screen, a greater selection of stitch patterns and monogramming fonts, and comes with more accessories in the box. These enhancements make the Brilliant a more feature-rich option, while the Presto 2 remains a solid, budget-friendly alternative.

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Janome Skyline S3 AE - $1,099
Janome Skyline S6 AE - $1,799
Janome Skyline S7 AE - $2,699

Now let’s look at the Janome Skyline Series: S3, S6, and S7. All three models are built on the same platform and share premium-level internal components, such as an upper and lower shaft with ball-bearing seals, a thick needle bar, the same motor, the same needle threader, and the same bobbin winder.

Despite their similarities, these models vary significantly in price:

• S3: $1,099

• S6: $1,799

• S7: $2,699

So where do they differ?

The Skyline S7 stands out with several premium features. In addition to the knee lift, it includes an electric presser foot lift, enabling the pivot feature. It is also compatible with Janome's HP Professional plate and foot, previously available only on higher-end models. The S7 boasts a larger, more advanced screen, a greater selection of stitch patterns, and an intuitive organization of these patterns for ease of use.

Stepping down to the Skyline S6, you lose the advanced screen, the pivot feature, and compatibility with the HP plate. The S6 also has fewer built-in stitch patterns and comes with fewer accessories. However, it retains the AcuFeed Flex walking foot system found in the S7.

Moving further down to the Skyline S3, you forgo the advanced walking foot system. Additionally, its needle plate system requires unscrewing for removal, whereas the S6 and S7 feature a quick-release lever for easy removal. The S3 also includes fewer stitch patterns and accessories compared to the S6.

Each of these models offers excellent performance, but their feature sets and pricing cater to different user needs and preferences.

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Bernina 740 | Bernina 770 QE Plus

Now let’s examine the Bernina 740 vs. the Bernina 770 QE Plus. Both are built on the same platform and share key features such as the B9 Hook system, a 10-inch throat space, built-in dual feed, jumbo bobbins, and identical power and stitch speed.

However, the Bernina 770 QE Plus costs nearly $2,000 more than the B740. Why?

One significant reason is that the B770 QE Plus comes with the Bernina Stitch Regulator (BSR) for free-motion sewing, included in the box. While the B740 is compatible with the BSR, it does not come standard with the machine. The BSR alone typically costs between $800-$1,000. Additionally, the B770 Plus features a larger screen than the B740, providing enhanced visibility and ease of use. Another major distinction is that the B770 Plus is compatible with an embroidery unit and has the software necessary for embroidery capability, whereas the B740 lacks this functionality.

These differences justify the price gap, making the B770 Plus a more advanced and feature-rich choice, while the B740 remains a solid option for those who don’t require embroidery capability or an included BSR.

Back in 2021, Bernina announced that they were going to discontinue the B740, one of my Dad’s favorite machines that he’s ever sold in terms of performance and price. He called Bernina and asked how many B740’s they had left in their warehouse. They had 38 left. He bought all of them. All 38 arrived on the same day, as you can see in the photo above. Since then, Bernina started manufacturing the B740 again. We’re glad they changed their mind, because it is truly a great machine for the price.

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Thank you for reading.

If you found this article interesting and want to learn more, I highly recommend the previous article I wrote, “Sewing Machines in Disguise”, which talks about the parallels between badge engineering in the automobile industry and the sewing machine industry:

If you liked this article and/or found it helpful, please feel free to like, comment, or share it with you fellow sewing enthusiasts.

Much appreciated,

—Cale