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Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 50 Review – 2024 Update!
Note from the Editor: This Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 50 review was originally written in 2014, and has been revised and updated in 2024. We have added alternatives such as Brother Inno-vis NQ1700E, Janome Horizon Memory Craft 9850, and Brother SE1900.
I can truthfully say that I enjoyed reviewing the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 50. This machine is part of Husqvarna/Viking’s new Designer series and it is getting a lot of attention in the sewing world.
Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 50 Overview
The Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 50 is a cutting-edge sewing and embroidery machine that seamlessly combines style and functionality. With an impressive 208 built-in embroidery designs and a large embroidery area of 14.11" x 9.45", this machine offers endless possibilities for creating beautiful and intricate designs. The Topaz 50 also features a color touch screen display for easy navigation, a USB port for importing and exporting designs, and a range of practical accessories, including multiple presser feet and a large embroidery hoop. Whether you're a seasoned embroidery expert or a beginner, the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 50 is the perfect tool for taking your sewing projects to the next level.
To be honest, all of the machines in the Husqvarna/Viking Designer series look pretty much alike with the exception of the color. The Topaz 50 has a bronze color faceplate and bronze frame around the large touch screen.
The function touch pad on the front of the machine includes controls for start/stop; needle up/down; stop; fix; tie off; presser foot up/down, reverse stitch; and speed adjustment.
The needle plate has seam guides etched on both sides of the needle and the clear bobbin over lets you see exactly how much thread is on the bobbin before you start a new seam, series or decorative stitch.
There is an on board stitch selection guide that helps the user quickly navigate through the stitch menu as well as a ruler to help save time and make your work go as smoothly as possible.
What are the features on Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 50?
- 261 built in decorative, utility, embroidery and monogram stitches
- 159 embroidery designs
- 9 one step buttonholes
- 2 eyelets
- Redesign with stitch recalculation
- 24 stitch memories
- Adjustable stitch length and width
- Mirror stitching [side by side; end to end]
- On board stitch guide
- Lock screen option
- Built in ruler
- Interactive color touch screen
- Extra large sewing surface – almost 10” on the right side of the needle
- Sensor system technology
- Basic design positioning
- My stitch memory
- 2 modes of free motion sewing
- Variable speed control
- 29 needle positions
- Stitch positioning
- On board assistance
- Ability to update software instantly via internet
- Free motion sewing with any embroidery stitch
- Ability to rotate, scale and mirror embroidery designs
- Downloadable software included with each machine.
Working on the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 50
When it comes to winding the bobbin and threading the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 50, someone who has never before touched a sewing machine could master the process in just a few short minutes.
Selecting stitches and performing other functions, however, require you to have a good foundation in the art of sewing before even thinking about sewing on this computerized sewing and embroidery machine.
In order to select a desired stitch, it is necessary to first touch the menu icon on the touch screen. A series of stitch groupings will appear. From there, you select the stitch category you want.
A series of stitch options will appear on the touch screen. Use the arrows below the screen to toggle through the stitch options within that category until you get to the desired stitch pattern and then make your selection.
The selected stitch pattern will appear on the left side of the screen with a picture of the correct presser foot above it. Use the function tabs on the right side of the screen to change stitch length and width or choose a mirroring option. The question mark icon gives you access to the help menu.
The quality of stitches produced on the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 50 is very good, much better, in fact than many other machines in its class.
I have with other Husqvarna/Vikings had issues with the quality of dense decorative stitches. I am pleased to report that this is not the case here.
I was very pleased with the quality of all the utility and decorative stitches I sampled for this review. Each one was well defined, well formed, sturdy and the dense stitches came out perfectly.
What are some alternatives for Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 50?
We have reviewed several sewing and embroidery machines similar to the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 50 and here are some alternatives we highly recommend.
This model by brother is a feature packed commercial device that gives you access to over 5000 optional design options from iBroidery.con besides the ones available onboard. It also has inbuilt memory to store your patterns and designs. 2 LED lights have been built-in for visual convenience alongside advanced needle threading mechanism and automatic thread tension to ensure adequate precision. The majority of features on thai model si automatic and set up to the user’s convenience. The quality of delivery is excellent and snooth and the device works incredibly fast saving you a considerable amount of time. A large work area is provided to accommodate larger sewing and embroidery projects. The working area is also well illuminated with LED lights.
Are you searching for a compact-size embroidery machine? Then, with Janome Horizon Memory Craft 850, your hunt just ended. The machine can impress you with its versatility and abundance of great features. It consists of sewing and embroidery modes, allowing you to easily switch between the skills. Moreover, the machine provides you with up to 200x 280mm hoop capabilities to ensure precision, especially during embroidery, and the latest needle threading system lets you do some vibrant stitching.
- A wide array of more than 200 built-in stitches
- 175 embroidery designs
- Sturdy frame to manage hard fabrics
- Editing capabilities
- Prompt touchscreen for easier navigation
- Expensive, especially for beginners
- Slow speed of embroidery
If you are looking for the best sewing and embroidery machine, then Brother SE1900 Sewing and Embroidery is the one. The features of this particular embroidery tool exceed your expectations by offering you a 5’’ x 7’’ area for embroidery so you can move ahead with larger designs without starting afresh. This is not all; you will also see 138 built-in embroidery designs, a color touchscreen, and 240 sewing stitches, making it irresistible for you to scroll past this instrument.
Which fabrics work on the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 50?
| 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 Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers Leather/suede | Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber |
What are the accessories for Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 50?
- 9 Snap on presser feet
- Utility
- Buttonhole
- Zipper
- Decorative stitch
- Blind hem
- Non-stick glide
- Edging
- Embroidery/Darning
- Sensor one step buttonhole
- Stylus
- Thread net
- Felt pad
- Screwdriver
- Lint brush
- Seam ripper
- 4 Spool caps (2 large/1 medium/1 small)
- Multipurpose tool/button reed
- Pictogram pen
- Hoop clips
- Six extra bobbins
- USB embroidery stick
- Scissors
- Extra needles
- Embroidery thread
- Fabric and stabilizer
- Sampler book
- Owner’s manual
- 2 Embroidery hoops
- Royal hoop (360mm x 200mm)
- Splendid square hoop (120mm x 120mm)
How to maintain the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 50?
| 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 |
Other Husqvarna Viking alternative
The Husqvarna Viking Jade 20 Sewing Machine seamlessly combines cutting-edge features with a sleek, modern design. Boasting an extra-large 8" sewing space illuminated by bright LED lighting, it accommodates large projects effortlessly. The sewing guide in the lid simplifies the process, recommending ideal stitches and settings for different fabrics and techniques. With 82 beautiful 7 mm wide stitches, top-loading bobbin, and a built-in needle threader, this machine ensures precision and convenience. The start/stop function allows for foot-control-free sewing, making it perfect for decorative stitches and users with physical limitations. Stylishly designed, it flaunts an accessory compartment, and the machine's speed control adds to its versatility.
- Easy to use and makes little noise
- The stitches are perfect
- It might be hard to read the stitch widths on the user guide
Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 50 Summary
The Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 50 is a very good sewing and embroidery machine… one that offers lots of standard features, comes with nearly all the accessories anyone would want to make their sewing experience a good one and renders great stitch quality.
It is an ideal choice for the home sewer who has mastered the basics of sewing and machine embroidery and is ready to dive into the deep end of the pool. The Topaz 50 is not for the beginner.
Someone who is adept at sewing but unsure as to whether or not they are really interested in a lot of machine embroidery might be happy with it as well. I like the fact that you can sew with the embroidery unit attached.
My primary interest is clothing design and construction. If I were in the market for a machine on which to embroider from time to time, this could be one of several machines that I might consider.
I’m not crazy about the many steps one must go through to get to a desired stitch option, but the stitch quality is so good, some people might be willing to overlook that little glitch.
The Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 50 is not as costly as some machines in its class, but its not a bargain either.
This is definitely not a machine for the novice. I believe someone who is enthusiastic about machine embroidery and is in the market for a fully computerized sewing and embroidery machine that will allow them to expand their horizons would be the best customer for the Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 50.
It’s not the top of the line, but it’s a long way from the bottom of the barrel. The excellent stitch quality; the convenience of being able to sew with the embroidery unit attached and the many features and options are all major advantages to having this one in your sewing room.
Before making a final decision, however, be sure to ask your local dealer for a demonstration. There is nothing worse than buying a sewing machine because someone else loves it just to find out that it isn’t the right fit for you and your particular needs, preferences, personality and style.
Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 50 Review
Summary
The Husqvarna/Viking Designer Topaz 50 is a computerized sewing and embroidery machine that is designed for intermediate and experienced sewers. It has a variety of features that make it a great choice for quilting, garment construction, and decorative sewing. Some of its features include 250 built-in stitches, 4.0″ color touch screen display, Design Positioning feature, 4″ x 4″ embroidery area, automatic needle threader and drop-in bobbin, knee lift, 8.5″ of workspace from needle to arm, built-in extension table, LED light, and carrying case. It is a great choice for sewers who are looking for a machine with a variety of features and a sleek design. However, it is expensive and not as portable as some other sewing machines.
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Happy Stitching.
This is my first Husqvarna sewing/embroidery machine. I am very excited. After purchasing the Husqvarna Viking 50 I attended a two day event in St. Louis. I learned so much and had a wonderful time. I will be using my machine mainly for embroidery. I purchased my machine at an Abbey Sewing Center in Edwardsville, Ill. and met the most wonderful people. I am looking forward to enjoying my new machine.
I just love my machine. Have taken classes as well, which I will continue. Problem is I had a mode to get embroidery designs and all of a sudden it is not there. What has happened…Please help!!!
Worst machine I have ever owned. Was not ready to embroider with, had to be up dated, had repair and check because of birds nests(turned out to be a bad bobbin case. Now it will not read any flash drive. This is three hours after picking it up from repair shop. it is still in warrenty. I have be sewing for 66 years. This machine goes back to the factory tomorrow and I am trading for another brand as soon as I get it back..
This is just a nightmare. I have a Viking topaz50 and have nothing but trouble since day one. The embroidery unit has been replaced, the embroidery foot has been replaced and now the embroidery unit doesn’t move when embroidering. The sales people look at you as if your from another planet. I am so frustrated with this machine I want to throw it in a lake. Help, help, help! Please
I feel the same as you about my Topaz 50 and wanted this so bad. Now I feel it is the biggest mistake I have ever made and a waste of my money. Now we no longer have a dealer close by they closed the one a Joannes that we had. What did you end up doing and is there any way to post directly to Viking my email address is franted1@yahoo.com. any advise would be great. Thank you
I feel your pain. My old Kenmore lasted41 years with no problems and I used my Pfaff daily for 21 years before I gave it to my daughter and bought the VH Topaz 50. I’ve had to borrow it back as the Topaz is in for more repairs – 6 times in 3 1/2 years.
I love my Topaz 50. I traded my HClass 6th in and was the best thing I ever did. It sews well and embroidery is beautiful. I sew everyday on this machine with no problems.
Really love my Topaz 50. Today as I was making a design. The machine stuck in one spot. When I hit stop. It would not stop. I thought I must turn it off. I didn’t because it did pause. Only now after 2 hrs of work my design did not pick up where it left off and could not complete my project. An error popped up on the screen. Not sure what to do or what caused this to happen. Any advice?
Pattie
I have had been embroidering with my Singer for 15 or so years. My husband wanted to surprise me with a new machine. Purchased a Topaz 50 from our neighborhood store. Had it for a couple of weeks when it continued to have multiple catches of thread on a small metal piece next to bobbin. Not being a tech on rehab/fixing machines I brought it to salesperson to get fixed!!!??? My sales person said it was the function of the cutter. It wasn’t returning to it’s original setting after cutting. The threads are collecting in this metal piece and ruining my piece. After 4 times of being brought in to get fixed. It still does it. Salesperson exchanged my old machine with floor model. I am having same problem…. Anyone else having problem with cutter?
Purchased the Designer Topaz50. Why is the machine so noisy with basic stitching?
Oh dear! I purchased my Topaz 50 just last week, and reading these reviews has me afraid to open the box. I will be retiring by the end of the month, and planned on spending many hours enjoying this machine.
I hope the pro’s far outweigh the con’s in this review. I’ve been wanting a nice embroidery machine for year.
My husband purchased the Husqvarna/Viking Topaz 50 for me December 2015. He paid the total amount in cash. I have NEVER owned a sewing machine that made so much NOISE!!! Had to have it serviced prior to using. Would love to trade it in for a Viking that is quiet when sewing.
I hear you! I was planning on purchasing this machine tomorrow, now I’m second guessing myself.
I bought a topaz 50 two months ago 2018. I love it, not one thing has went wrong. i bought it at a Abbey’s in Missouri in South Co. The girls are great and very happy with my machine.
Thank you very much for the detailed overview on this sewing machine. I was planning to get Topaz 50 and was facing some issues but now i know what i’ve to go for.
Just purchased Viking 50 Topaz. Excited to learn all I can to make my investment worthwhile.
Purchased My Topaz 50 at Quilt Show.. just to be able to take up some smaller work. This is a Beautiful Machine, but it is the LOUDEST machine that I have ever owned. I’m so glad that I still have my Janome to sew on. I feel it does not even compare to my other machine, and a complete waste of my money. And so you know, my Janome is a sewing only machine, and Janome beats this machine hands down.!
Machine is ok but Viking service and support sucks. I live in a rural area and have to travel an hour to even get to the shop and the employees are rude and I was unable to do any classes because I work and they never offered weekend classes till after my time had expired.Had this machine for a few years and now shopping for another brand
I am interested in this machine, but some of the reviews are scaring me. I have not had any experience with machine embroidery, perhaps this should wait? I am also interested in the Emerald 118 for it’s solid stitching and user friendly.
I purchased my Topaz 50 in 2018 and I have been extremely happy with it. It is my first embroidery machine so I had to learn how to use it, but any mistakes that were made were user errors.
Like a few ladies, I have the same problem with my Topaz 50. It is very noisy and keeps on showing a report file message. Don’t know what to do with it. When I turn it on it shows a green screen and 2 gears. Looks like it’s loading up. Then nothing. I turn it off and it works but it will stop in the middle of a embroidery project. I am very upset with it. Is there anyone that had the same problem then resolved it. Any advices? I took it to the dealer many times with no results. Thanks
I am very disappointed
I have my Topaz 50 since 2020 (Covid) and I’m so happy I invested on it. I recommend it with no doubt. Maintenance is a most as it is for any equipment you invest in. I’ve made and created so many beauties with it that some people don’t believe. It made me happy from day 1 and still does.
Hi I was wondering if there is only one type of husqvarna viking topaz extension arm that fits all the topaz machines (Topaz 25/50)
Regards
Jackie
My email address
jackienext@msn.com
This is a nice General review for this Sewing/Quilting/Embroidery combo machine. But what I don’t understand that if this review was made from a Sewist Point of View, how come the reviewer gave as an alternative a machine like the Brother NQ 1700E that is ONLY an Embroidery Machine- you cannot sew with this Brother. I have owned the Topaz 30, and it has more than 4.3 million Embroidery stitches without any problem. The only problem I had was with the upper tension disks, and the mechanism was replaced and is running as good as new, but I am planning to get the Topaz 50 or higher Viking model to continue my embroidery stuff. Just MHO and experience.