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Husqvarna Viking Emerald 116 Review
While visiting Factory Sew-Vac in Lantana, Florida, I came upon a pair of Husqvarna/Viking Emerald electronic sewing machines. One was a 116 and the other was a 118. I learned that there is also a third machine in this series… the 122. The only key difference between these three machines is the number of stitch options and a few other features, so below I review the Emerald 116. The differences between the other machines are listed in the ‘Features’ section.
Discover precision and versatility with the Husqvarna Viking Emerald 116 sewing machine. Ideal for crafting unique dresses or replicating magazine-worthy curtains, this machine boasts a built-in needle threader, a convenient Sewing Guide Reference Chart, and a protective hard cover for storage. Achieve perfect stitches and one-step buttonholes effortlessly with 60 stitch functions. The machine's adjustable stitch length and width, paired with the comprehensive Sewing Guide, make it your go-to for seamless sewing across various fabrics and techniques. Elevate your creations with the Emerald 116's reliability and user-friendly features.
- Good for beginners
- User friendly and light-weight
- Value for money purchase
- Needs manual tension adjustment
Overview
Both the Husqvarna/Viking Emerald 116 and 118 have an emerald green motif and dials to adjust the stitch length and width, as well as a dial to select the stitch options. The stitch selection guide slides out from the lower right corner of the machine, putting all of the stitch options at the user’s fingertips at all times.
There is also an on-board ruler, a free arm, and an automatic needle threader, as well as a drop feed and an oversized reverse stitch button on the column. There is an on-board accessory case that, when removed, reveals a convenient free arm and a drop feed lever. The drop-in bobbin cover is a great feature since you can see exactly how much thread is on the bobbin without having to remove it. The fact that the Husqvarna/Viking Emerald 116 and 118 have a drop in bobbin is an added advantage when it comes to saving time and energy when it is necessary to rewind the bobbin. Taking it out and putting it back in place is much easier simply because all you need to do is lift out the clear cover and pop it back when you are done.
Features on the Viking Emerald 116
- 16 decorative and utility stitch options (Emerald 116)
- One step buttonhole
- Adjustable stitch length and width
- Built-in handle
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Thread cutter
- One-step buttonhole
- Built-in needle threader
- Built-in ruler
- Drop feed
- Rotary hook system
- On board accessories storage case
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Drop feed
Additional features on the Emerald 118 and 122
- 18 decorative and utility stitch options (Emerald 118)
- 22 decorative and utility stitch options (Emerald 122)
- Needle up/down (Emerald 118 and 122)
- Variable speed control (Emerald 118 and 122)
Working on the Husqvarna/Viking Emerald 116
Threading the Husqvarna/Viking Emerald 116 and winding the bobbin are uncomplicated and very easy for a beginner to master. I have no doubt that a child in elementary school will be quite adept and performing these tasks after just a few closely supervised attempts. Once the Husqvarna/Viking Emerald 116 is threaded, selecting a stitch option is as easy as sliding out the convenient stitch selection guide from beneath the column or referring to the stitch selection table at the top of the machine head. Selecting the correct stitch was as simple as turning the dial to the assigned stitch number. I found that sewing on the Emerald was pretty much a piece of cake. The stitch selection process is only the beginning. As I sampled various stitch options, I discovered that all of the stitches I tried were perfectly executed… evenly spaced, well-formed and sturdy.
What fabrics can the Emerald Series sew?
The Emerald 116 sews the following fabrics
- Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool
- Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet
- Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester
- Upholstery
The Emerald 116 cannot sew the following fabrics
Leather/suedeFurReptile skinCanvas/TwillPlastic/RubberExtra thick fabrics or multiple layers
Accessories
- 8 snap on presser feet
- Seam ripper
- Lint brush
- Needles
- Quilting guide
- Screwdriver
- Owner’s manual
- Sewing guide/reference chart
- Hard cover
Maintenance routine for the Emerald series
| Actions | After each use | Monthly | Annually | 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 |
Alternatives to the Emerald 116
If you want a more professional machine than the Emerald series, I recommend looking at the Jade series from Viking (review below)
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.
If you are looking beyond the Husqvarna series, have a look at products from Bernina, Pfaff, Brother and Singer sewing machine companies. If you are looking for something with a lower price tag, we recommend the Heavy Duty machine and you can read more about the different Singer Heavy Duty Machines here.
SewingInsight Final Verdict
The Husqvarna/Viking Emerald is a jewel of a machine. It is a great choice for beginners of any age. This machine is easy to learn to operate and easy to maintain. It is permanently oiled and, therefore, doesn’t require any lubrication. It is necessary, however, to take it to an authorized service provider for cleaning and maintenance at least once a year.
The Husqvarna/Viking Emerald is an electronic sewing machine that is ideal for working with fashion fabrics and light to medium-weight wool, upholstery fabric, or denim. Although I recommend this machine for use by beginners, the Emerald is also a good choice for the home sewer who is in the market for a new machine. It is solid, quiet, and there is absolutely no vibration at all. My only criticism of the Emerald is the placement of the drop feed lever—on the back of the free arm.
In my opinion, this control should be on the front of the machine. It seems to me that the drop feed lever should have been placed on the front of the machine – perhaps near the reverse stitch button or near the stitch selection dial. Having it on the back of the machine is very awkward if you are attaching buttons, darning, or performing other tasks that require the feed dogs to be disengaged and reengaged frequently. Even with that in mind, I readily admit that, overall, I like the Emerald. I like the way it feels when I am sewing on it. Although it is a portable sewing machine, it handles like a larger, much heavier, machine.
The solid construction is, no doubt, attributable to the Swedish ingenuity that the Husqvarna/Viking brand has been known for over past 140 years. The Husqvarna/Viking Emerald is affordable and one of the most user friendly machines I have seen in the current Husqvarna/Viking inventory. I like the ease with which it is set up and the stitches selected and changed. I like the way it feels when I am working on it and I especially like the fact that the Emerald is quiet and there is no vibration. This solid construction and the excellent stitch quality are the two most important factors any home sewer looks for in a sewing machine. Because of that, I encourage everyone to take a look at this affordable electronic sewing machine. I believe it is an excellent choice for anyone whose sewing projects are primarily clothing and accessories or small home décor accents.
Husqvarna Viking Emerald 116 Sewing Machine Review
Summary
The Viking Emerald 116 sewing machine is suited for all types of sewing, be it one-of-a-kind curtains or stunning outfits that duplicate those seen in furnishing and garment stores.
This sewing machine is extremely simple to use with its excellent results. Because of this, not only will amateurs adore it, but professional sewers will also find it to be completely adequate.
The Emerald 116 can function admirably. Although it is a small-sized machine, it is incredibly powerful. This machine has 18 in-built stitches and a total of 70 stitch options.
It comes with a simple 1-step buttonhole and one protective cover for storage.
The Emerald 116 sewing machine includes a ton of useful features that can be of great assistance to you, including a useful sewing guide, a reference chart, and an integrated needle threader.
The various options for presser foot recommendations can assist you in selecting the appropriate presser foot for the stitch that you choose.
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.
Hello Vernelle,
I am about to buy a new sewing machine. But can‘t make any choice betwen pfaff ambition 4.0 , pfaff select 3.0, or a juki hzl F300 or juki hzl 210.
I am an intermediate sewer but i hope to do more. I want a robust one but can’t get out of any choice. Can you help me please.
Thank you,
Petera
I wpuldn’t recommend this machine at all. I have constant problems with mine. I’m about to take it in for repair… again.
I am thinking of buying the Huskqvarna/Viking 116. I just want to repair clothing and do some other heavier work with canvas and light leather or nagahide (Spelling). Would you recommend it? I want to maybe do some upholstery for a wagon I have or repair wagon covers. Just personal use
Dear Walt,
I would recommend a more robust machine for sewing leather, canvas, upolstery, vinyl etc. The Brother, Juki, Janome all have straight stitch machines that are semi professional.
All other brands are made in China and thus tare up way to easy.
Hello Wait –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
Since you say you will be working with a lot of heavy fabrics – canvas, leather and naugahide, I think you might be better off with a sewing machine that was specifically designed for heavy duty work. You may want to consider a lightweight industrial sewing machine or a heavy duty machine like the Janome HD 1000 or Janome HD 3000.
Would this model be good for making quilts with several layers?
Hi,
I’ve been lucky with this machine. It occasionally birds nests, but usually, I just rethread and it behaves. I didn’t buy the 118 because the only useful feature it added was needle down for $150 more. That said, it’s impossible to reliably nudge the foot pedal so that the needle moves from up to down. The review is right on the money wrt sewing through thick layers: it likes to stop and take a nap instead of working. Oh yes, it does bounce around a bit when I go for speed.
Stretch stitches actually work unlike my Pfaff 2023 Classic Style Fashion, which sucked the fabric down through the pressure plate. The Viking bobbins have much more capacity than the Pfaff, too.
Jeffry, I am thinking of purchasing the 116 model as well. I’m a sort of a beginner. This machine reads to be a pretty good sturdy model. At least I hope it is. But I also want to sew with denim. Would this machine easily handle that?
I bought the116 after they demonstrated how it would run over denim. I don’t know if they had a needle with a diamond tip (if any such thing exists), but I have always had to help the machine going over a thick seam. I try to use new needles but I don’t always remember.
The machine also has a tendency to vibrate and bounce around on the table when I need maximum Stitch speed.
If I could get a do-over would look for a machine made before 1980. A PFAFF 130 might fit the bill.
I was glad to see you liked this machine. I have seven sewing machines of varying costs and bells/whistles, and this is my favorite one. It’s uncomplicated but dependable, and I love the way it sounds when it runs.
I have a 116 Husqvarna Viking and need instructions on how to thread it.
Please direct me to a site where they address how to set up my husquvarna emerald 116 sewing machine specifically for free motion quilting. I can’t find it anywhere.
There is a lot of information for setting it up but nothing specific for step by step set up for free motion quilting. Thank you.
The HV emerald 118 was a gift from my daughtet I’ve had this machine just short of a year. I had an issue where the motor was running but when I pressed the pedal to sew, even though I was only sewing 2 layers of woven cotton- piecing a quilt- the machine didn’t have the power to push the needle down- I had to help turn the wheel to get it going and then it sewed very, very slowly. Each time I stopped, I would have to do the same thing – turn the wheel. The needle up/down didn’t work when this happened. I stopped and checked how my machine was threaded- all good there. And then I cleaned the bobbin case/hook race and it continued with the issue. I just shut the machine down and searched online for any issues with this model without success. Several days later, I turned the machine on and it worked perfectly for all my sewing for the next 3 months. Then I tried to drop the feed dogs and it had an iron grip on the fabric when I tried to sew. I looked at the manual- checked to see what the position of the control lever needed to be in for dropping the feed dogs and it was in the correct position.
Then the original issue – not having the power to push the needle down began again. Again I searched online and found one mention of the exact same issue who basically did everything I did before returning to the dealer. The dealer called husqvarna/viking and was told it was a known issue with some of this model # and the machine was replaced on the spot. I decided to stop wasting time and returned the machine to the dealer. Told thrm everything. Showed them what I found online about the issue and they told me to leave the machine so they could look at it. A week later, they called and told me to come pick up my machine -that they could find nothing wrong with the machine. I am very frustrated. I took the machine home with the intent of using my video camera to show them exactly what is happening. I’ve been trying to sew every day for even a short time just to catch the machine doing this. It’s started to feel like it’s slowing down several times but hasn’t repeated the more obvious issue of not having the power to push the needle down. I’m unsure what to do at this point- the one year warranty is up in less than 10 days and I’ve been reading complaints from the BBB about the lack of customer support from Husqvarna Viking. My daughter spent $400 on this machine and I’m at a loss as to what to do next. I had called Husqvarna/Viking before I returned it to the dealer and they told me to return to the dealer to let them handle the issue. Am I going to get stuck with a faulty machine? I am very concerned about the things I read about the poor customer support from husq/vik- there were hundreds of complaints about it whether it was a sewing machine or a chain saw. And, the kicker is that the local husq/vik sewing machine dealer has similar complaints about customer service and is the owner of the sew/vac stores of the only 5 other husq/vik dealers in my regional area.