Necchi BU Mira Sewing Demonstration & Comparison to Pfaff 130

[@michaelkirwan177]

Unquestionably one of the most comprehensive sewing machine demonstrations I have seen to-date. The candor, technical narrative and sewing skills that comprise this video are very impressively presented. Very matter-of-fact comparisons to the Pfaff 130 were especially appreciated and presented without bias, or preferential treatment. This is my 'go to' video for this particular iteration of Necchi's BU Mira Mike Kirwan - Kenmore, WA

[@drmichaelelinski6992]

You said this era of machine building “is the pinnacle of sewing machine engineering “. I couldn’t agree with you more. That really sums up why I love these vintage machines. They are so solid and really built to last. Thanks.

[@iggyreilly2463]

I own both a 130 and a BU Mira and I'm in the process of getting them to sew. I wish I had seen this excellent comparison prior to purchasing the 130. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with such clear explanations and demonstration; for every person that responds, there are likely hundreds of others who appreciate what you do.

[@thesergeant3524]

Thank you for the feedback :)

[@jeffreyjones4226]

Great video...I have my Mom's that she bought when I was born in '54...she's gone but her machine is still in operation. Expect to pass it down to one of my granddaughters.

[@thesergeant3524]

That's an incredible heirloom. Your children and their children will be lucky to receive it.

[@comabereni1]

Wow, great review and demonstration from 8 years ago. Thanks for keeping it up and available.

[@brookeoftedal2857]

Hi just saw your thread. Acquires this machine and can’t find the on off switch🙄. Looked everywhere on line. Any chance you were able to turn yours on?

[@thesergeant3524]

Thank you! :) Compared to the new 'youtubers' the video quality and production isn't there but hopefully the info still is. Thanks for the feedback!

[@weekenddistractions]

Awesome overview of this machine!

[@alexandermoriarty9530]

BU is bobbin universale in Italian. There is also the Necchi BF which is straight stitch only, no zigzag.

[@helenaanonymous3942]

I have this machine from my mother-in-law and haven't used it so I'm hoping you have more videos on it. Good info and demo. Thanks.

[@tomthompson7400]

what a well thought out machine , built up to a standard and not down to a price . all it needed to be perfect was a walking foot , and its all the machine most folk would ever need.

[@4486xxdawson]

I got Necchi BU for free, the machine had tons of smoke damage but after a good bath and oiling this is my favorite machine , when ever i find the old machines they seem to be covered in smoke from a smoker or a kitchen but they allways come out beutiful, its almost like the smoke preserves them .

[@craigmonteforte1478]

Thanks for the video and Narration / Tips you have yourself a nice collection of machines I started Sewing as a hobby about 15 years ago mostly to have more quality control on my Marine cushions and Canvas for my boats I also have done some Interiors for my personal Vintage Autos I really enjoy it way more than I thought i would as my personal background had been Woodworking and General Construction both Managing and hands on

[@renaissanceman32]

Awesome video! Thanks man! This was in a house me mom just bought. She gave it to me!! I’m super excited!

[@berniepokorski2489]

Great Video! It really makes me Proud to own my NECCHI BU MIRA! I also own a PFAFF 130 that was given to me by a Dear Friend.

[@lumararose4932]

+thesergeant Can you please post a video on how to wind a bobbin :)

[@danielminskey]

what a greeeeat review. thank you for taking the time to make this video.

[@thesergeant3524]

thanks for watching!

[@lumararose4932]

Can I also get a tutorial on how to thread this machine pretty please?

[@toffoloviv]

I would like to know how to thread the machine also

[@donaldroberts6452]

Thanks for the information. I bought a Mira model today and after putting new plugs and wire on, and a new belt it ran. However, wouldn't sew worth a darn. After watching your video few times I realized the needle is in different than my singer and white (made by pfaff). I couldnt wait until morning, jumped up and it runs great stitches. It makes a little noise though, not as quiet as the old white. Thanks.

[@helcatbc]

Thanks for this great video! I’ve recently inherited one, and am looking forward to using it!

[@donaldlampert331]

So, i think I've watched all of your sewing machine videos, and really enjoyed them! May I ask what you do for a living...... are you a tailor, upholsterer, or sew for a living......or just a collector Thanks for sharing all your knowledge, and many talents.

[@clauperez2479]

Buenas tardes, tengo una máquina igualita a la del vídeo, pero no se como se usa la parte de los discos adicionales. Podria explicarme. Gracias

[@karenlampson3555]

I have Necchi model 3M-952H. I too only sew on vintage machines. I have my favorites. Right now it's this one. I can not get it back to straight stitch from ZigZag. Can you help?

[@ladybird3596]

Have you ever heard or seen a Visnova sewing machine? I have one. I know it's Italian made. I have most of the instruments booklet, attachments n I bought it in the table. Any information would be appreciated.

[@sylvievicenza179]

Thank you for this informative video. I own a Necchi 555, a Necchi Mirella and a 544 will arrive next week. I forgot I have 2 Necchi for kids also. I had none in Spring and we are now end of August. I have a question for you. Do you think that I could change the motor of a Necchi BU Mira that was for the American market to a European motor. Would I need to change all of the wiring? I am a sewer not a engineer. I got the Necchi bug because I live in Italy now. Ciao ciao

[@rndea100]

whats it like over 12layers of denim like the hem at the bottom of your jeans or bulky seems

[@TheBusyBeeSews]

Just found one on the curb in my neighborhood. Will need some TLC but I hope to add it to my sewing machine fleet.

[@thesergeant3524]

Awesome find! Enjoy it!

[@ww2exploringiniceland924]

Um do you know anything about the necchi bdu i bougth one recently and im trying to find out the age do you have any tips?

[@miketrue559]

We have a Necchi BU Mira with the Wonder Wheel. We don't even know whether to keep it because it has been 30 years since it worked. Our daughter loves to sew on her Baby Lock but we wonder if the Necchi would be a better machine. Should we keep it or sell it? After watching this video I have the impression that it's built very well, and we might be wise to keep it for after the Baby Lock breaks.

[@krystleroy3068]

What about the super nova is this better buy because it’s probably a lot easier to fix on ur own? Or what u think 🤔

[@tonyvodka4358]

what type of ac adapter does this machine use?

[@MsZenJenn]

Thanks for the great videos! You mentioned being able find replacement motors. Do you know where I can get one? Does it have to be an exact replacement?

[@thesergeant3524]

Thanks! It doesn't have to be an 'exact' replacement. Sew-classics sells a full kit that won't require rewiring. If you're capable of rewiring the motor/plugs I'd look at either one of the Sailrite imports (1.3 amp motor from taiwan) or a Dayton 2M033. Be sure to keep the pulley from the original motor. Goodluck!

[@PennyDuke]

Anyone know how to repair knee control. Friend has a Necchi BU Mira machine no matter the position keeps running.

[@ftera4]

Excellent videos. Do you know the thickest or heaviest weight thread BU Mira and the Nova can take? I like to use tex-150 cotton thread in the bobbin and the needle.

[@simonguitton]

This video only leave me with one interrogation : How do the Necchi BU Nova and Mira compare to the Bernina 117, their contemporaneous Swiss counterpart? And thank you very much for this instructive video. Such detailed presentations are precious to me who want to get "the best" zig-zag machine without having to find and try them all.

[@thesergeant3524]

I have a 117K as well as a 217 (industrial counterpart). I think I've tried pretty much all the zig-zag machines from this era. My favorites are the Bernina "Favorit" flatbed series, no pun intended. They're incredibly smooth and fast and the foot system is 2nd to none. The 117 is smoother and faster than just about any machine but it predates Bernina's quick change foot system. I've done some testing and the 117 can be adapted to use the new foot system but a custom presser foot bar needs to be made. I have the parts to do it I just haven't had time.

[@simonguitton]

@@thesergeant3524 Thank you for these elements! For my part, I eventually have settled for the Singer 216G as my zig-zag machine. I have come to prefer that particular model for its using common bobbins, needles and ubiquitous Singer feet which all can be found in charity shops or yard sales much more easily than other brands, and its looks, which very much matters to me, and are already on the verge of "too modern." (And I found one without having to look hard for it, and for cheap.)

[@danielminskey]

very informative video..i cant seem to get my stitch dialed in.

[@krystleroy3068]

Is this the wheel the only difference between the nova and the Mira I see some people finding the wheel part and adding it to the nova?

[@gaylearrey2165]

I have a necchi esperia and bobbin winder is same as yours on here. Can you show how to wind bobbin? I can’t find another video showing that.

[@daphneblake7889]

I have a Necchi BU Mira, just recently rescued it. (Was locked up) I am having some performance issues with the thread management below deck. I suspect something is not in time. However it looks that the screws that would allow this adjustment intentionally have no "head" for a screwdriver. I want to verify if the timing is correct. I don't know the specs or procedures for this model. Also it's possible that the needle installed is somehow incorrect. I know nothing about it. However if I install the needle slightly lower than against the stop. All the problems go away. This is why I was assuming the timing was a fraction late. If you have any information that can help me please let me know.

[@thesergeant3524]

I believe the hook is pinned on the Necchi, so there won't be a screw. I have another video discussing timing on the channel. The principles apply to all machines so hopefully it's just a matter of adjusting your needlebar height.

[@nyleah411]

I really love this machine! Right now I'm looking at a Pfaff 130 but only because it sews through thick pieces of leather. What is the thickest material you've sewn with this machine? Thanks for sharing too! Sarah

[@thesergeant3524]

+Sarah Baker Hi Sarah, for heavy duty sewing I'd recommend the Necchi Nova or Mira over the Pfaff 130. The Pfaff 130 is a great machine no doubt and the Pfaff and Necchi have comparable "penetrating power" but the Necchi has a leg up for a few reasons. 1) The feeddogs on the Necchi are more aggressive and more effectively feed material. The feeddogs on the 130 are diamond patterned and don't feed heavy material as effective. You can upgrade the feeddogs on the 130 to the saw tooth style by purchasing Pfaff 138 industrial feeddogs for ~$20..2) The Necchi's use high shank (industrial style) feet so you'll have a wider variety of specialized feet available . 3) The Necchi uses an oscillating hook that moves in relation to the needle, whereas the Pfaff 130 is fixed. The necchi will be more forgiving when it comes to skipped stitches, wide varieties of heavy thread/needle combos/etc because the hook moves to match the needle so the optimal timing and hook position is maintained. Short of it, go with the Necchi if you only plan to sew thick material. If you're doing a variety of work the Pfaff 130 is a smooth/quieter machine but requires a few upgrades in my opinion. Goodluck!

[@nyleah411]

Thank you so much! Really enjoy your channel!

[@olleinsulander]

Great video! I just got an early Necchi BU and it sews well except when doing zig zag round the edges of raw fabric - it snaps the upper thread somewhere between the needle and the hook. This doesnt happen if I go real slow and it mostly seems to occur on single layers of lighter fabric. Zig zagging round button holes are no problem for example. Could this be a timing issue ? Best whishes

[@MsGroovalicious]

Oops, I'm hearing now about the Nova...

[@dewaynekelley6957]

I was just given one of these. Of course the machine needs cleaning & a new belt, but seems to run pretty good. Body a little rough, but want it for sewing so no problem there. I am having a problem with bobbin. If I try to run the machine with the bobbin in it will stop. If I completely remove the bobbin set up it runs like a top. Could you give some idea of what I need to do to fix this problem. Really like this machine, so would like to know how to fix it. Thanks in advance. Also thanks for the video, as now know how the machine works.

[@drmichaelelinski6992]

Do you sell machines like this green Necchi BU Nova? I love this machine. Please keep me in mind if you restore or are selling a Necchi BU Nova or similar machines. Do you have a Facebook, eBay, or other website for vintage machines? Sounds like you know your stuff about these great vintage machines. Thank you.

[@MsGroovalicious]

Hi, could you tell me the difference between this machine and the Nova? Which one is easier to find parts for? What about the Supernova? Thanks so much.

[@thesergeant3524]

+MsGroovalicious They're basically the same with the exception of the Cam reader on the Mira and the integrated light in the nose of the machine. Aesthetically I prefer the BU Nova but they're both great machines and you shouldn't have a problem finding parts for either. I haven't worked with a Supernova as it's a little too "modern" (lol) for my taste. My preference is for machines from the 30's-late 50's.

[@MsGroovalicious]

Thanks so much!!

[@MsGroovalicious]

Do you have any for sale? What should I pay for one? Thanks.

[@ellellbee]

I sure wish you would give a SuperNova a try. It is only late 50's and pretty amazing for that era. Your review would be something I would love to see.

[@salortiz1644]

awesome machine i have a necchi as well.how can I contact you to see what model I have I can't seem to find it.

[@mrrandompotatoes2940]

Just bought one at a yard sale it needs to be rewired. Need help with this. Thank you

[@juandominguez5094]

How much are these worth just bought one

[@sapphire9167]

Can you show how to set timing on the bobbin ?

[@thomasplatt6743]

Hey how good would the Mira be for thick denim and canvas? Should I hold off till I can find something more industrial?

[@thesergeant3524]

Depends on the number of layers. If you're in the 4 layer range you'll be good. If you're sewing 4+ layers consistently I'd look into an industrial.

[@drmichaelelinski6992]

Hi, what does the “BU” stand for in the Necchi BU Mira? I have a Necchi Supernova that I recently acquired. What is the difference between this machine that you are showing here, and the Necchi Supernova? Thank you for any insight you could give me to understand the differences and various developments between these two machines. Mine does not have the fashion dial, but has a cam set, where I can stack up to 3 cams to achieve various decorative stitch patterns. BTW, I find your teaching and videos to be very helpful and informative. I learn a lot from the way you present your machines. Keep up the great work...

[@woolandwaterknits4801]

Have you tried the Bernina 117 zig zag? I have too many vintage machines but I am going to keep my 221, 201 and sell the rest. I really , really enjoy your videos. Thank you so much for posting!

[@thesergeant3524]

Ya, the 117 is one of my most favorite machines. I have a mint 117K as well as the industrial successor, the 217. The 117 uses a super high shank presser foot with a low shank adapter. I'm in the process of machining a new presser foot bar for the 117 that will accept modern bernina feet. Best of both worlds. I plan on doing a video of that.

[@woolandwaterknits4801]

Great - can't wait fo the video. I have a 117K that was in terrible condition. I cleaned it up and need to rewire the motor. But I love it so far. It is a beast! I also have the Mira and so glad a friend did not sell me her Pfaff 130. Phew! Keep up the great videos!

[@douglasmalthus]

Good evening! Could you help me with a question? I have a sewing machine that uses high shank press foot and I would like to buy a buttonholler for machines that use slant shank press foot, I wonder if the slant shank could be used on the machine that works with high shank. Thank you!

[@thesergeant3524]

You can get adapters to convert a high shank machines to use low shank feet. As far as I know slank shank can't be used on either.

[@douglasmalthus]

Thanks for the answer. Here in Brazil there are no slant shank machines, most of them are slow or high.

[@Sweetsongs2011]

Hello, I recently acquired a Necchi BU Nova. It works well but it doesn’t feed the fabric. Do you know what I’m doing wrong?

[@uhadonejob]

There likely is a switch under the machine that disengages the feed dogs. It will just rotate one of the control rods to engage the mechanism. I hope you solved it before 2 years but I have met one other person with the same problem on a different Necchi.

[@drmichaelelinski6992]

Very clear and helpful explanation of the Neechi BU. Where is your shop and website? I’d trust you as a person from whom I’d like to buy a vintage sewing machine. Thank you for the clear presentation.

[@thesergeant3524]

Thank you for the kind words. No website, no shop. Just trying to share the word and help save as many of these machines as I can.

[@drmichaelelinski6992]

thesergeant, you are certainly doing at a great job at achieving your goal of saving these gems of the industrial revolution at its best. Keep up your excellent work and videos. I learn so much from you. Thank you, theSergeant, sir!

[@ceciliamariaandradevalenci2297]

Quisiera aprender a manejar la máquina necchi dónde puedo conseguir instrucciones en español?

[@JuanRodriguez-jn7zx]

Hola

[@JuanRodriguez-jn7zx]

Yo tengo los manuales

[@ceciliamariaandradevalenci2297]

​@@JuanRodriguez-jn7zx1:40 gracias puede decirme cuánto cuesta y si se puede enviar a Colombia?

[@cdannrogers8797]

I'm buying a BU Mira that has no motor. The price was right and it seems to turn over just fine manually. My question is would it be ok to buy a low powered industrial motor rather than trying to find a OEM replacement motor?

[@thesergeant3524]

Definitely. The only issue is the belt. It might be a tight fit with a 3L belt on the BU hand wheel. You may need to downsize the belt or motor pulley but it's completely doable.

[@SeanKelly1]

Any standard domestic motor will work fine on these without having toe mess around much with the belt or pulley. At the moment my avocado green Necchi BU has a blue "Montgomery Ward" motor.

[@johnmrincon]

Como se enhebra gracias

[@Velostigmat]

Which of the two machines do you think is quieter and smoother?

[@thesergeant3524]

It's very, very close. I'd say the Pfaff is slightly quieter and slightly smoother, but the Necchi feeds material better and has a more positive/consistent forward/reverse stitch length adjustmen. It's really a toss up. You can't go wrong with either. I'm going to be making a video on a Pfaff 130 this week. You can subscribe if you want to be notified when it's posted.

[@mconsuelo16]

muy buen vídeo pero le agradecería que se tradujera al español , quiero saber donde consigo el manual para la máquina nechee bu mira en pesos colombianos

[@thesergeant3524]

+MARIA CONSUELO MEDINA GARZON Gracias Maria! Yo puedo hablar un poquito de espanol y yo comprendo su pregunta. desafortunadamente, no tengo el manual en espanol pero aqui es el manual en ingles: freenecchisewingmachinefiles.weebly.com/

[@mconsuelo16]

Le agradezco thesergeant su ayuda con lo del.manual es una muy buena maquina de coser y me la regalaron tiene todo el mueble esta intacto toda la herramienta quiero decir los pies, y para bordar los discos lo tiene y pues no utilizarla sería perder la oportunidad de coser en ella y quiero saber muy bien lo del bordado con los discos .muchas gracias ,que tenga una feliz navidad

[@InLawsAttic]

Love the stitch length set up! Is this industrial ? or home? I had a Necchi 547, wine red color; it was good, but couldn't do what I thought I bought it for, sewing heavy layers/multilple. MIne wouldn't do that thick, but would do heavy stuff. I was making "soft" instrument covers.Otherwise it was a great machine.My machine made that same knocking sound as yours, really loud, is it normal? I thought I had broken it after putting it through grueling work. I want the foot to lift high enough to sew thick layers- jeans, canvas & foam with thin fake fur lining; but it would be nice if I could get a machine that also sews thin, like silks and velvet. I guess I have to get one each if going industrial...? . I see so many similarities on your Necchi- it looks good. Wish all machines made that wheel guide!!!!! I worked in a drapery shop for a while(WAY back when) and loved the hemmer, the overlock, and the straight stitch, but didn't know what the machines were. Now I want those capabilities.

[@thesergeant3524]

It's definitely a great machine. It's actually a "home machine" but it's very burly compared to the modern machines that are sold as "domestics" today. The "knocking" you hear is pretty common amongst all vertical hook, oscillating machines. Its the sound of the hook hitting the shuttle cushion spring as the shuttle changes directions. These types of machines (Singer 15 class, Necchi BU, Singer 31k, etc) are generally noisers than rotary hook machines (Pfaff 130/134/138, Adler 189a, Singer 201, etc) You'll have a tough time finding a machine that can do it all. I have 3 machines that I use regularly -- a Pfaff 130 (for lightweight work), a Pfaff 134 (for mid-weight) and a Pfaff 145 (for heavy duty). Each has their place.

[@InLawsAttic]

Good to know- off to research those Pfaffs...do they have that drop bobbin?....glad to know the knocking Necchi (haha) is ok, I think it drove me nuts because I thought i broke my machine- will have to see if daughter still has, then I could try it out again! :) thanks again for all your informative videos!!

[@fatyassuser4802]

Turkey yetkili servis ❔❓

[@marthahermandez7975]

Quiero comprar una asi

[@vaccavo]

Oh, Lord!

[@dimetriosprice2094]

Other the funny thing is it can also the funny thing is they can also be very sassy LOL especially if they have the old plug it took me a while to try to figure out why my

[@dimetriosprice2094]

Wasn't working correctly it came down to the case of I plugged it in and that was more so a aha moment but I figured it out😅😂😂 is Martha like you have to be careful because the older plugs don't just have a large in the big side to them both the same size of plugs and I don't know what I'm doing wrong and then I stopped halfway into the sentence to plug back in the opposite way my sewing machine and all of a sudden it starts working properly

[@dimetriosprice2094]

And I slap my head I should expect this weekend I I fell victim the same thing at which I was telling somebody else not to phone victim too

[@melinacalise7743]

Volevo in italiano