Partner disclosure: SewingInsight.com is a participant in the Ebay Partner Network and Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We earn a small advertising fees by linking to products on Ebay and Amazon. This does not increase the price for you as a reader but you will support our small business.
Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20 Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20 review was originally written in 2014, and has been revised and updated in 2023. We have added alternatives such as Brother SE1900, EverSewn Sparrow X, and Brother SE600.
No jewelry collection would be complete without the dazzling topaz. That holds true for the Husqvarna/Viking jewel collection of sewing, quilting and embroidery machines… Diamond deLuxe, Sapphire, Ruby and Topaz.
I came across the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20 on a visit to Ace Sewing and Vacuum in Pompano Beach, Florida, and simply couldn’t resist the urge to take it through its paces and review it.
Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20 Overview
The Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20 is a computerized sewing and embroidery machine that offers a range of advanced features for the serious sewer and embroiderer. It features a large, high-resolution touchscreen display that allows for easy navigation and customization of embroidery designs, and a built-in USB port for importing additional designs. The machine also has 100 built-in embroidery designs and 160 built-in stitches, including essential stitches such as straight, zigzag, and decorative stitches, as well as stretch stitches and a one-step buttonhole function. Other features include automatic thread tension, a programmable jump stitch cutting function, and a wide range of stitching options, including decorative stitches, quilting stitches, and more. Additionally, the Designer Topaz 20 features a large embroidery area and a precision laser guide for accurate stitching. This machine also has an exclusive sensor system that senses and adjusts to any fabric thickness for perfect, even feeding. It also includes a range of advanced sewing features such as a pivoting function for easy sewing around corners, a customizable stitch creator, and a range of specialized feet for different sewing tasks. Overall, the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20 is a top-of-the-line machine that offers exceptional performance and versatility for both sewing and embroidery projects.
The smoky topaz colored control panel, sleek design, large extension table, and detachable embroidery unit are only the beginning.
Like the other machines in the Husqvarna/Viking jewel series, this eye appealing machine has an on-board ruler, a start/stop button, push button presser foot controls, bright LED lights and a backlit LCD screen.
What are some alternatives for Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20?
We have reviewed several embroidery machines like the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20, and here are some we highly recommend.
The Brother Embroidery Machine, SE1900 is a computerized embroidery machine that is perfect for beginners and hobbyists. It has 138 built-in embroidery designs, including a variety of designs for monogramming, home décor, and clothing. It also has 11 built-in fonts and a 5" x 7" embroidery field.
The SE1900 also has a number of features that make it easy to use, such as the touch-screen display and the automatic needle threader. It also has a number of advanced features, such as the My Custom Stitch™ feature, which allows you to create your own custom stitches.
The SE1900 is a great choice for beginners and hobbyists who are looking for an embroidery machine with a variety of features and a great stitch quality. It is not the most affordable machine on the market, but it is a good value for the price.
Are you one of those sewing enthusiasts who prefer having an embroidery machine with the latest technology? Guess what? The EverSewn Sparrow X2 Sewing and Embroidery Machine works like this. Yes, this embroidery machine functions with the help of technology, and when we say technology we mean that it uses a Wi-Fi-activated application to permit you to design and track your embroidery projects from your mobile phones only. The device lets you be pretty creative by using 120 built-in stitches and 100 embroidery designs. If you have large projects in the pipeline, then also you need not worry as the tool equips you with a 4.75’’x 7’’ embroidery area.
If your primary goal is versatility, then go for Brother SE600 Sewing and Embroidery Machine. The machine proves to be the best for embroidery due to its magnificent features. You will witness a 4’’ x 4’’ embroidery area, combined with a 3.2’’ color touchscreen, where you can preview designs. As far as the stitching is concerned, then this machine equips you with 103 built-in stitches and over 80 embroidery patterns. It even offers you a USB connection to import custom designs.
What are the features on Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20?
- 105 on board designer and utility stitches
- 3 alphanumeric fonts
- Grayscale backlit LCD display
- 2 bright LED lights
- Sewing advisor
- Free motion with any stitch
- Pattern restart
- Fix function
Working on the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20
The first thing I noticed when I flipped the switch to turn on the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20 was a notification on the LCD screen telling us that the machine was in the embroidery mode.
The following notices appeared on the screen:
1. Calibrate embroidery unit
2. Remove hoop
3. Clear embroidery arm for calibration
4. Snap on the embroidery presser foot
5. Connect USB embroidery stick
My intention for this particular review was to sew, not embroider. In order to achieve this goal, I simply removed the embroidery unit.
However, the machine did not automatically sense this change. It was necessary to shut the machine down and turn it on again in order for it to reset itself to the sewing mode.
With that hurdle cleared, however, threading the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20, winding the bobbin and identifying stitches was a breeze.
The on board stitch selection guide simplified the stitch selection process. A handy on board stitch selection guide is conveniently mounted inside the top cover, giving the user constant access to all 105 available stitch options.
The Designer Topaz 20, like all other Husqvarna/Viking jewels with the exception of the top of the line Diamond deLuxe, offers the user the option of keying in the type and weight of fabric with the mere touch of a button.
Once this step is completed the user then selects the desired stitch and the LCD screen will automatically display the proper presser foot and tension setting for the fabric and stitch selected.
The stitches produced by the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20 are crisp, sturdy and well defined. During the review, I sampled the mirror feature by touching the button on the keypad.
To our delight, I learned that the decorative stitches I selected were produced with the identical precision whether in the original view or the mirror image.
In addition to the large embroidery unit, the Designer Topaz 20 also has an on board accessories case that doubles as a work table which when removed, exposes a free arm, enabling the user to work on sewing and embroidery projects of any size.
Which fabrics work on the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20?
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) Upholstery Leather/suede | Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber |
What are the accessories that come with Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20?
- 9 snap on presser feet
- 2 embroidery hoops
- Crown hoop (10 ¼ “ x 8”)
- Square hoop (4 ¾ x 4 ¾)
- 1 GB Husqvarna/Viking USB embroidery stick
- Embroidery unit
- Large work table
- Accessories case
- Lint brush
- Seam ripper
- Screwdriver
- Quilting bar
- Extra bobbins
- Extra needles
- Spool pin
- Spool caps (2 – 1 large/1small)
- Owner’s manual
- Hard cover
How to maintain the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20?
| Maintenance activities | After each use | Monthly | Once each year | As needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clean race hook and feed dogs | Yes | No | No | No |
| Wipe head with soft dry cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Wipe head with soft damp cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Lubricate | No | No | No | No |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | No | No | Yes | No |
Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20 Summary
To conclude my review, sewing on the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20 is a treat – that is after clearing up that little issue with the embroidery unit when I first turned it on.
This machine would be so much simpler if it were the type of machine that would enable us to sew with the embroidery unit in place. Aside from that, this is a dream of a machine.
The Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20 is not a machine that I would recommend for use by beginners. The many stitch options, the embroidery feature and the fact that changing the machine from embroidery to sewing mode is a challenge makes this machine completely unsuitable for the novice home sewer.
In addition, I discourage the use of this machine by anyone under the age of 18, regardless of how long they may have been sewing.
Although some children as young as nine or ten learn to sew and are quite good by the time they reach high school, the Designer Topaz 20 is not a machine that I suggest a young sewer be allowed to use.
If, you have the skill set to handle and appreciate all that the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20 has to offer, by all means, visit your local Husqvarna/Viking dealer and take a close look. It might just be the perfect addition to your sewing room inventory.
The original manufacturer’s suggested retail price for the Topaz 20 was $2999, surely not within reasonable budget range for someone still in high school, even though they might be a rather accomplished home sewer.
However, the really good news for bargain hunters is the Designer Topaz 20 has been replaced by the new and improved Topaz 25.
When compared with the Topaz 25, you will find the following differences between the two machines:
| FEATURE | TOPAZ 20 | TOPAZ 25 |
|---|---|---|
| On board decorative & utility stitch options | 105 | 160 |
| Total stitches including alphanumeric fonts and characters | 368 | 423 |
| My Stitch memory capacity | 15 | 12 |
| Buttonholes | 7 | 6 |
| Sewing speeds | 3 | 5 |
| Automatic drop feed | Embroidery only | None |
| Mirror image | Side to side and end to end | Side to side only |
| Interchangeable dual feed | No | Yes |
When I first compared the features on these two machines, I thought that perhaps I was reading the tables incorrectly, but I was, in fact, not making a mistake.
Aside from the number of stitch options and the interchangeable dual feed, the Topaz 20 actually has a little more to offer than the 25.
The interchangeable dual feed is the most significant addition to the Topaz 25, and in my opinion, significant enough to warrant the reduced stitch memory and mirror imaging capacity, and the elimination of the automatic drop feed.
If you are one of those people who is not impressed with the very latest and greatest but want to have a great sewing and embroidery machine at a great price, all you need to do is visit an authorized Husqvarna/Viking dealer.
Anyone who is interested in purchasing a Topaz 20 should be able to find one at a significantly reduced price. All it takes is a visit to your local Husqvarna/Viking dealer.
When you get there, ask for a demonstration of both machines and then see what kind of deal you will get for investing in the older model.
Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20 Review
Summary
The Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20 is a sewing and embroidery machine that was released in 2020. It has a 5″ color LCD touch screen, 105 built-in stitches, 3 alphanumeric letter fonts, and a large embroidery field of 7″ x 12″. It also has an automatic needle threader, quick-set, top-loading bobbin, and a variety of other features that make it a versatile machine.
Overall, the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 20 is a good sewing and embroidery machine for those who are looking for a machine with a variety of features and a large embroidery field. However, it is important to note that it is an expensive machine and not as portable as some other machines.
However, it is important to note that the Designer Topaz 20 does not have as many stitches or features as some other machines. It is also not as portable as some other machines.
Recommended Posts
If you are an advanced sewist, have a look at our best sewing machines, best sewing books and best sewing magazines posts and if you are looking to get a mechanical, heavy duty, quilting or industrial sewing machine, have a look at some of our great articles. If you are a beginner sewist, review our best sewing books for beginners, best sewing machines for beginners and best sewing machines under $200 to get started.
For brand related articles, check Best Bernette | Best Bernina | Best Brother | Best Husqvarna Viking | Best Janome | Best Juki | Best Singer |
For best accessories, check Best Chairs | Best tables | Best tracing paper | Best machine oils | Best scissors and shears | Best presser feet | Best needles | Best sewing kits |
Happy Stitching.
I’m having trouble with my thread breaking and the back is a mess – any suggestions?
Hello, Judy –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
Are you having the same challenge with all types of threads? Is the machine threaded correctly? Is the bobbin properly wound and inserted? When was the last time you took your Topaz in for servicing? Does it happen with all types of fabric? Did you set the buttons on the machine for the type of fabric that you are working with?
I emailed you a question regarding Viking machine.
I would like to know the calibration process for the SEWING machine part, (not the Embroidery machine part) of the Husqvarna Designer Topaz 20. Janome machines have 3 buttons to push simultaneously as you turn on the machine which signals a little code screen that you touch with a stylist. This calibration fixes skipped stitches and promotes a good working machine. I want to know if the Husky has a process similar to the Janome and what it is. I’ve had this machine for 3 years and still not thrilled with it but on fixed income and cannot afford a new machine. Your help would be appreciated. Thank you.
I have been using my Topaz 20 for several years and I love the machine. I am currently working on a quilt and am in free motion mode. All of a sudden, I get repeated messages telling me that the thread is broken. It isn’t broken, but the machine stops and I have to begin again. I have cleaned the machine, changed needles, tried different feet, etc ., and I can’t seem to get this to quit happening. Do you have any more suggestions short of taking it in for servicing–I have to get this quilt finished by next Saturday for my granddaughter’s shower.
Bonjour, ma mère a une machine topaze 20 mais elle ne peut pas s’en servir car le logiciel était sur un ordinateur avec Windows vista et l’ordinateur est HS comment trouver une mise à jour que cela soit de nouveau compatible avec Windows 7… merci
Can you use a 2 gb usb stick with this? I lost the original 1 gb. One.
I want to know if it’s necessary to shut my Topaz 25 off and on every single time I want to start a new embroidery project? I am doing lots of monogramming and it seems like a lot of wear and tear on the calibrating part of the machine if I have to do it every time I start a new letter.
I used my machine to replace zippers in heavier pants and now I cannot get my regular stitch set to sew. My tension is off and I do not know how to get get it back to normal.
My Designs on an USB won’t show up. Thought I was going crazy. I’ve had it for two year plus. I upgraded my Embroidery program so I thought that was it. So I put it back to the version that I upgraded from . The big thing is that OLDER files that I’ve got on USB sticks – do work. But I have purchased several new files and none of them will show up. Mine is in the right format – of course. I’ve tried it on every thumb drive I own – including the files that came with the computer.Warrenty is out. I’ve never had any problems with it until now. Wish I could take it back. My seller is a witch and sold it to me anyway – even though I asked her if it was being discontinued, It was. And is. It’s not even on the Husqvarna website anymore. My seller made me pay full retail, and only gave me about 1/2 of what my trade in was worth. I got screwed royally. Carrie Oquinn I’m sorry it’s happening to you too.
I do think both of ours needs a new Slot where the USB goes into…..but I have no idea how much that would cost. I’m like the other lady. I have a 2nd really nice embroidery machine (Janome 12000 – which you can get closed out now for around $3000-$4000. I love it. I only use the Viking now for quilting and regular sewing. I bought so much extras for that machine so I’m not spending any more money on it. If you hear of any remedities, please let me know.
I think it’s absolutely silly to say you wouldn’t recommend this machine to anyone under 18 years old regardless of their skill level. My teenage daughter is a master sewer at 17 and I purchased this machine for her and she has almost mastered this machine and all it’s functions very quickly. My point is age has nothing to do with being able to properly use this machine with ease. As my teenage daughter runs circles around me a 39 year old with this machine.