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Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0 Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0 Review was originally written in 2012, and has been revised and updated in 2023. This model is now discontinued. We have added similar alternatives such as JUKI TL-2000Qi, Brother PQ1500SL, and Brother XR3774.
We had the opportunity to review the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0 sewing machine on a recent visit to Cynthia’s Fine Fabrics. One of the first things to catch your eye is the color.
This machine is molded in sleek white plastic with a shocking splash of hot pink accenting the control panel on the front.
The sheer appearance of this state-of-the art sewing machine and quilter, from its smooth construction to its colorful face panel, is an eye catching addition to any sewing room.
Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0 Overview
The Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0 is a computerized sewing machine designed for quilting and other sewing projects. It offers a large working space and a variety of features to make quilting easier and more precise. The machine comes with over 250 stitches, including utility stitches, decorative stitches, and quilting stitches. It also has an automatic thread cutter, an automatic needle threader, and a built-in dual feed system for even fabric feeding.
In addition, the machine has a large, high-resolution touch screen display for easy stitch selection and customization. It also has a memory function for saving customized stitch sequences and settings. The Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0 offers a variety of quilting-specific features, including an extended free arm, a patchwork program for piecing together blocks, and a quilting stitch regulator for consistent stitch length. Overall, this sewing machine is a great choice for quilters who want a reliable, feature-packed machine for their projects.
This model is now discontinued. We recommend trying out alternatives that we have added to this post.
This machine is a sleek molded white plastic with a shocking splash of hot pink accenting a control panel on the front.
The sheer appearance of this state-of-the art sewing machine and quilter, from its smooth construction to its colorful face panel, is an eye catching addition to any sewing room.
What are the features on Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0?
The contemporary German craftsmanship of the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0 is equipped with two lights to illuminate your sewing project. One is above the needle; the other above the workspace.
It also features an illuminated LCD screen that not only shows users the exact size of selected stitches before they begin sewing, but also gives clear step-by-step information on how to achieve that particular stitch.
The LCD screen can also be used to program up to 40 stitches as well as to perform multiple steps in sequence, so that it will do precisely what you want it to do and when you want to do it.
The Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0 comes with:
- A built-in carrying handle that disappears when it is not in use
- A large space to the right of the needle, which makes it possible for the user to work with some of the largest of sewing projects and oversized embroidery hoops
- Automatic tension adjustment on both the bobbin and the upper thread
- Automatic thread knotting on both ends of seams
- Two different free motion modes and an external feed dog drop make darning and freeform quilting a breeze
With the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0, home sewers have access to:
- More than 200 stitch options, including overlock and overcast stitches
- Elastic stitches
- Honeycomb, bridging and crosshem stitches
- 11 different buttonhole choices
- Eyelet and bartack stitches
- More than 100 quilting, needlecraft and decorative stitches
The mirror image option makes it possible for the home sewer to create even more stitch possibilities by programming the machine to flip and rotate stitches.
It is also capable of rendering the alphabet in either upper or lower case.
When working on this machine, the home sewer has the freedom of using up to 37 different needle positions.
It can be set to stop with the needle in either the up or down position and has an extra wide stitch plate to avoid needle breakage.
When the needle is set to stop in the down position, the automatic presser foot lift raises the presser foot to make pivoting easier.
The automatic presser foot lift is also activated when threads are cut at the end of a seam with the automatic thread snipping option.
When not using the automatic presser foot, the user has two options for raising and lowering the presser foot: the traditional presser foot lever located on the back of the needle housing, and a knee lift conveniently located on the front of the machine.
With this feature, home sewers have the ability to raise the presser foot without having to take their hands away from their work.
Working on the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0
Threading the Quilt Expression 4.0 is a breeze with its integrated needle threader and top-loaded bobbin winder.
The built-in sensor that lets you know when the bobbin thread is getting low is a great add-on.
With this in place, the possibility of the bobbin thread running out in the middle of a long seam or while executing an intricate design pattern is almost non-existent.
Even when the bobbin does require rewinding, it is not necessary to re-thread the entire machine because it is possible to safely re-wind the bobbin without even unthreading the needle.
The 37 needle positions and extra large stitch plate make it easy to execute the many available stitches without worrying about breaking needles.
In addition, the oversized stitch plate is etched with a seam allowance gage, making it possible to get a precisely measured seam each and every time.
The built in stitch restart feature makes it easy to resume a sewing job when it is necessary to stop sewing to change thread. whenever sewing is stopped before a sequence is finished.
The Pfaff QE 4.0 is capable of rendering overlock, overcast, and hemming stitches in addition to an array of decorative, embroidery, quilting, and functional straight, blind hem, and buttonhole stitches.
For this review, we chose to concentrate on the monogram and quilting functions. For the quilting task, we selected a stitch that mimicked hand stitching.
By loading monofilament in the upper thread position and color thread in the bobbin, the illusion of hand stitched quilting was excellent.
The stitches were so precise and dainty that even the most experienced of hand quilters would have had difficulty identifying them as stitches made on a machine rather than the old fashioned way.
When monogramming, the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0 is easy to program.
After choosing our fabric and backing it with stabilizer, all you have to do is select the thread colors, the font, the letters, and the desired size of the letters. The machine does all of the work for you.
If you are not absolutely certain about the settings, the machine will help you through the process with recommended setting suggestions that are displayed on the LCD screen.
The end result is sharp and crisp, and looks every bit like the work of a seasoned professional.
Finally, off means off. When the power switch is in the off position, the Pfaff QE 4.0 is totally inoperable.
When some electronic machines are turned ‘off,’ it is still possible to raise and/or lower the presser foot or turn the balance wheel. Not so with this machine.
When the machine is turned off, the needle and presser foot automatically go to the down or resting position and remain there until the power is turned back on.
What are some alternatives for Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0?
We have noted in this review that the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0 is a discontinued model. Here are some alternatives we recommend instead.
Juki’s TL-2000Qi is a workhorse with an intimidating stitching speed, but it will not quite intimidate you because it is fairly easy to work with. If weight is an issue for you, it is a true industrial machine that weighs a lot. to counter that is extremely substantial. The device responds super quickly and gives you a rather smooth experience at the worktable. To save you time and tension while threading the needle, there is an automated threader. It's true that it takes a few attempts before you feel confident threading the needle. When working on large sewing or quilting tasks, the machine's working surface, which measures around 23 inches, is ideal. With the machine purchase, a flat-bed extension table is supplied to expand your workspace.
In order to hang on to the fabric and concentrate on the project you're working on, there is a knee lever that enables you to elevate or lower your presser foot without using your hands. For skilled and experienced sewers, this is useful. Since it is industrial in character and heavy-duty, this machine is ideal for professional sewers. It should last you for many years.
The Brother PQ1500SL Straight Stitch Sewing and Quilting Machine is a versatile and powerful machine designed to meet the needs of sewing enthusiasts and quilters alike. Whether you're working on intricate quilting projects or tackling heavy-duty sewing tasks, this machine is engineered to deliver exceptional performance and precision.
Featuring a straight stitch-only functionality, the PQ1500SL is perfect for achieving professional-grade stitching on various fabrics. With its high-speed sewing capability of up to 1500 stitches per minute, you can complete your projects quickly and efficiently. The machine's advanced features and robust construction make it suitable for both home use and professional settings.
One of the standout features of the PQ1500SL is its generous workspace. The extended 12x18-inch wide table provides ample room for maneuvering larger quilts and fabrics, giving you the freedom to create larger designs with ease. The table also features a convenient storage compartment for keeping your essential tools and accessories within reach.
Precision and control are paramount in quilting and sewing, and the PQ1500SL delivers on both fronts. The automatic thread trimmer allows you to neatly cut threads at the end of each seam, saving you time and effort. The built-in knee lifter enables hands-free raising and lowering of the presser foot, allowing you to pivot and manipulate fabric effortlessly.
Equipped with a durable feed dog system, the PQ1500SL ensures smooth and consistent fabric feeding, preventing fabric shifting or bunching during stitching. The adjustable pin feed mechanism adds to its versatility, allowing for precise fabric management, particularly when working with heavyweight materials or multiple layers.
The machine offers an array of adjustable settings, including stitch length and thread tension, allowing you to fine-tune your stitches according to your specific requirements. The intuitive control panel and LCD display make it easy to navigate through the different options and settings.
Brother has incorporated several user-friendly features into the PQ1500SL. The needle threader simplifies the threading process, saving you time and reducing eye strain. The included accessory kit provides a range of helpful tools such as a walking foot, free-motion quilting foot, and multiple specialty feet, expanding your creative possibilities.
In summary, the Brother PQ1500SL Straight Stitch Sewing and Quilting Machine is a reliable and versatile companion for sewing and quilting enthusiasts. Its high-speed stitching, ample workspace, and advanced features make it an excellent choice for those seeking precision and efficiency in their projects. Whether you're a hobbyist or a professional, this machine is built to meet the demands of your creative endeavors.
- The Brother PQ1500SL is known for its impressive sewing speed of up to 1500 stitches per minute.
- Its high-powered motor allows it to effortlessly handle thick fabrics and multiple layers.
- Comes with a large workspace and extension table.
- The machine lacks the versatility of other sewing machines that offer a wide range of stitches and decorative options.
- Due to its powerful motor and high sewing speed, the Brother PQ1500SL can be quite loud during operation.
If you have just stepped into sewing or are at an intermediate stage, then Brother XR3774 Sewing Machine is your call. The resource can spread sheer joy by offering 37 built-in stitches, a wide table for quilting, and an automatic needle threader. One of the best parts is that the machine is very light and its intuitive pattern makes it perfect for anyone, who does sewing as a hobby and wants a reliable machine to serve the purpose.
- User-friendly controls and a drop-in bobbin system to prevent jams.
- Affordable even with the important features.
- Lightweight and small in size, ideal for resuming sewing on the go or in limited space.
- Built-in with 37 stitches, may hinder professional users.
- The speed slider cannot be adjusted, making it a hindrance to achieving precision in complicated projects.
Which fabrics work on the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0?
| 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 | Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber Leather/suede |
What are the accessories that come with Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0?
Accessories that come with the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0 include ten different snap on presser feet with Pfaff IDT Integrated Dual feed technology: standard stitch, fancy stitch, blind hem, rolled hem, zipper, two buttonhole feet – one sensormatic and one manual, free motion embroidery, and quilting.
Accessories also include vinyl cover to protect it from dust and dirt when not in use, a user’s manual, a lint brush and an accessory catalog, detailing all of the other optional accessories available to enhance the sewing experience on the Quilt Expression 4.0.
How to maintain the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0?
| 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 |
Summary: Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0 Review
All in all and after careful reviewing, the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0 is an ideal choice if you are in the market for a machine that literally does it all.
The fact that the Pfaff QE 4.0 actually has two lights is a major plus. These two bright lights not only eliminate shadows, and make nighttime sewing as comfortable as sewing in daylight.
They make it possible for users to sew as long as they want to with less chance of being plagued by the annoying eye strain that comes with spending many hours hovering over a sewing machine.
The automatic needle threading feature is a huge timesaver – especially when working with intricate embroidery designs that use multiple thread colors.
We were particularly impressed with the fact that this machine knots the thread for you at the beginning and end of each seam, and then automatically cuts the thread for you when you are done.
The extra large work space is great for working with large projects, especially when quilting.
With this machine, you can do just about everything. It is practically impossible for the typical home sewer to use all of the stitch options that are available on this machine.
The ability to taper stitches not only enhances the options available with this machine, it gives a whole new dimension to decorative sewing.
With this feature, alone, the home sewer’s options are multiplied almost infinitely.
The many different presser feet that come with the machine can be mind boggling, but they are extremely useful when performing different sewing functions.
They simply snap on and off with ease and are easily interchangeable when working on an intricate project that may call for different feet to achieve a desired result.
The knee lift presser foot is a great feature, especially when working with an intricate project that requires lots of pivoting and turning to get a desired effect.
With the built in stitch options and step-by-step LCD programming features, embroidering and monogramming with the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0 is as easy as it could possibly be. We liked the drop in bobbin and clear bobbin cover.
Even without the built in signal that automatically tells the user when the bobbin is running low, the clear bobbin cover makes it easy to see exactly how much thread is on the bobbin with the naked eye.
The low bobbin signal and the ability to re-wind the bobbin without having un-thread the entire machine are features that every sewing machine should have from now on.
Although we have reviewed other machines with the IDT dual feed feature, this one seems to work even better than, feeding several layers of fabric through smoother and more evenly.
To sum it all up, the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0 is definitely a machine that is ideal for the home sewer who does everything – quilt, overcast, overlock, embroider and quilt.
However, with all the stitch options and bells and whistles, this machine is capable of doing so much that it could easily intimidate a new sewer or someone who is unaccustomed to doing more than basic clothing construction.
Even the home sewer with decades of experience could possibly be put off by a machine that is capable of doing this much.
To conclude my review, the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0 is a good choice for the person who is ready to stretch their skills to match their imaginations or for someone who wants to go that extra mile to add a personal touch by embellishing the clothes and home accessory items that they make.
In short, this machine is excellent for the intermediate and advanced home quilter or embroiderer, but could turn out to be far too much machine for the new or ‘average’ home sewer.
Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0 Review
Summary
The Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0 is a computerized sewing machine that is designed for intermediate and experienced quilters. It has 200 built-in stitches, 10 one-step buttonholes, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin, speed control slider, LED light, backlit LCD screen, free arm, built-in extension table, 7-segment display, AcuFeed Flex Feed System, quilting capabilities, automatic thread tension, needle up/down button, thread cutter, and 13 sewing feet. It is easy to use and can handle a variety of fabrics and projects, especially quilts. It is a great value for the price, but it is not as portable as some other machines.
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Happy Stitching.
I have had the Pfaff 7570 and was heart broken when the mother board died. Since I have a commercial embroidery machine, I did not need the embroidery function and decided on the Quilt Expression 4.0 for my sewing needs. What a fabulous machine. I am so pleased!
I purchased a new Quilt Expression 4.0 on e-bay. BUYERS BEWARE. THE AUTHORIZED PFAFF SERVICE CENTER will not recognize your purchase as an authorized sale and will not warranty any work. The Sensormatic and Free Motion features did not work on my mchine from the day I purchased it. I’m dissappointed in the machine but angry at the Pfaff Service Center for not standing behind work they did on my machine.
This is the same for most brands of sewing machine. The website will reccommend authorised dealers only. Many people don’t know this though. Places like ebay or some shop stores and other websites are not authorised and so this voids your warranty.
I had lots of problems with free motion quilting on my QE4. I took it back to my Pfaff serveman. He explained to me that this machine’s tension is more difficult to fix than most machines. There are more than one areas that need to be checked AND they need to be checked in the proper order. He added that in his Pfaff training, they did not cover this fact and he learned it by trail and error. Unfortunately for me, his newer serviceman didn’t know this and that was why my QE4’s tension for FMQ was off. Once he fixed it, it works great for FMQ.
Hello, MB –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
Unfortunately, you just learned the main reason for purchasing machines from sources other than authorized dealers. Many sewing machine manufacturers, especially those that produce upscale sewing machines and sergers, stipulate that they will not service any machine acquired from a source other than an authorized dealer.
They do this for several reasons. Some of the primary reasons are that machines not sold through authorized sources might or might not have been:
1) shipped properly;
2) stored at excessively high or low temperatures which damage sensitive components;
3) serviced or maintained according to factory specifications;
4) exposed to moisture;
5) damaged and repackaged;
6) used improperly.
There are other reasons for upscale sewing machine manufacturers to take this position as well. You might want ask the manager of your local Pfaff Service Center or visit the Pfaff website for complete details.
I suggest you take your Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0 to a different sewing machine repair provider, one that is not an authorized Pfaff Service Center. I know this is not the news you expected to receive. However, while not authorized by Pfaff, you might discover that they will be able to do a good job and keep your machine up and running for many years to come.
Happy stitching.
I have a Pfaff 4.0 Expressions that needs a new mother board. My repair man (whom I trust) tells me its about $500.00 to replace and would be worth it on a machine like this one. I want another opinion as to whether this is worth doing. It’s been misbehaving for awhile but I thought it was the way I was using it. Thanks for any input. karen mccall
Am I the only one who thinks the fact that the machine comes to a full stop when it detects a low bobbin is a HORRIBLE idea?! This machine should excel at free-motion quilting (FMQ) given that the name “quilt” is in the title of the machine. Instead, the machine stops and my hands are still moving and that creates a LARGE stitch in my quilt. This means I have to rip out every single time and then tie a knot and bury it in the quilt. Additionally, there’s still 10 yards of thread left on the bobbin!! Better to have the bobbin run out if I’m going to have to rip stitches out of the quilt and tie a knot. Better yet, have the machine beep but keep going so I could finish my FMQ cleanly. Also I can’t believe that you have to make a manual adjustment for pivot height no matter the thickness of what I’m FMQ’ing. Very disappointing in a “quilting” machine.
Yes my QE4.0 does stop sewing when it says the bobbin is low. I just take my foot off the foot control and then start sewing again. It will keep sewing until the bobbin is empty – and more!
Hello, Karen –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight. I agree that the issue of the bobbin stopping when you still have ‘ten yards’ of thread is an issue that you should not have to contend with.
I suggest you consult your local Pfaff dealer to determine if this feature could be adjusted somehow. You might also want to raise the question about manual pivoting as well.
When I reviewed this machine, I didn’t sew until the bobbin thread ran down and the little pivoting I did worked fine during the review. I didn’t attempt any freehand quilting, but from all indications, the Pfaff Quilt Expression 4.0 appeared to be able to perform all of the functions claimed by the manufacturer.
Happy Stitching.
Thanks for your comment, Vernelle. I did talk to the dealer and there’s no way to override the low bobbin machine stop. However, this is not just Pfaff. A friend with a Bernina says it does the same thing.
As to the pivot height, it’s a setting on the machine that needs to be changed in order to free motion quilt properly. I just believe the machine shouldn’t need an adjustment like that to quilt since it’s supposed to be a quilting machine. If I didn’t free motion quilt, this would be the perfect machine but since I do, I’m looking at upgrading to a Performance 5.0.
I have since upgraded to a Performance 5.0 and I love it! If you love to Free Motion Quilt, the 5.0 is a MUCH better machine. There’s a button for FMQ that automatically lowers the feed dogs and there is no need to adjust the pivot height because the machine’s normal settings work great. It’s still annoying that there are 10 yards of thread on the bobbin when the sensor goes off but I have learned (in one of my Pfaff Yahoo groups) how to load just a bit of thread onto the sensor portion of the bobbin first so now it stops with only about 12 inches of bobbin thread left. Also, I have learned that if you turn off the needle down setting, when the machine comes to a “low bobbin” stop, the needle will be up so I don’t take a giant stitch if I am FMQ’ing.
Where did you learn this technique of loading just a small amt.,of thread on the sensor?
Wasting a lot of bobbin thread is something that annoys me also.
one way around this is to use pre-wound bobbins. the ones I use are from superior (l style) – they are very thin cardboard, so the reader can’t tell when the bobbin thread is low. the caveat is that you need to pay attention – i have stitched many miles without bobbin thread over the years!
I recently purchased the Pfaff 4.0 used from the dealer. I do a lot of free motion artistic type quilting with various thread weights. Since the first day of bringing it home, the machine has had a problem. It is now at the shop for the third time. Thread and needle breaking are the two most frequent problems. I have a Pfaff 2056 and have loved the machine but wanted the larger throat opening. I’m very disappointed in the machine for my needs.
Not too thrilled with my Pfaff 4.0. I have difficulty with thread breaking when quilting, sewing metallic thread even using metallic needles, and any specialty stitch pattern. I also don’t like the zipper foot. I do like it for piecing.
Love my phaff 4.0 expressions machine. I’ve been quilting for six years and have owned the phaff 4.0 for 3.5 years.
I have had a few problems with automatic needle threader, and thread cutter. Disappointed with machine. I have arthritis in my hands and these two options are very important to me. Has been repeatedly looked at and still not 100%. I have a pfaff 2048 and the automatic needle threader works perfectly ever time. I have been in touch with Pfaff Australia who have put me in touch with a Pfaff dealer/technician they highly recommend. We will see how we go. Have found your website very helpful. Thank you
The ” clear jam in the bobbin case” comes on. I take it apart and clear the jam, put it back together and the threads won’t connect. It’s the little metal piece under the plate that catches and won’t release Anyone else having that problem. I’ll need to take it in to the dealer.
Hi – I’m also having this problem. The machine now jams every time I use it. I have taken the little piece out and it seems to work OK, but it must be there for a reason, and I’m concerned in case I’m doing any damage without it. Did you manage to rectify the problem?
Just dealt with that…it’s the cutter….turn off, turn on,hit cutter button, it will correct its self.
I bought this to new replace a used Janome 1650 that was nothing but trouble from the day I bought it after my old Elna finally wore out after 35 years. I needed a wide throat to do quilting but I also do various other sewing, including hemming an occasional pair of jeans. I should have known I was in trouble within the first month when I went to hem a standard pair of jeans and it wouldn’t go through all the layers even with me helping it feed. I ended up putting it through my old Featherweight and pushing the needle through the material manually. Have it in for repair for the 3rd time in under 2 years. It does fine if you don’t hit a pin, run anything other than cotton, batting or knits through it or don’t expect much. However, for what I paid it should do much more without having to go to the shop for a $100 adjustment. If I had just started sewing yesterday it would be one thing but I have been sewing for over 50 years.
Hi Phyllis,
I have had my Pfaff 4.0 since 2010 and have been disappointed. I have been getting help from a Pfaff dealer/technician but again automatic needle not working. Yep hitting a pin upsets it, whereas other machines I have used over the years seem to “soldier on”. My other pfaff 2048 is one of them. I have been doing some free motion quilting and I have to say that the machine handles this well. Good Luck
Where can I find instructions for making (filled, not just outline) monograms with my Quilt Expression 4.0?
Purchased my Pfaff QE 4.0 in 2011. I am very frustrated with it’s inability to do free motion quilting. Cannot get the tensions correct so the bottom thread is always very evident on the top of the quilt. During regular straight stitch sewing on the quilt I get the message about a thread jam under the plate. There is no jam but even after checking it still says thread jam. Today I tried again, rethreading the machine a number of times, cleaning the bobbin area, new needle, etc. it still won’t sew. It was just serviced and the Pfaff dealer was satisfied with the quilt stitch on very light weight fabric and batting. I will try one more time to get it to work and if I have no luck I will consider buying a different machine. Not a Pfaff.
Sounds alot like the one I have. I have a Brother that I really like. I had bought the QE 4.0 for the long arm for machine quilting but found that it was wrecking my quilts. No happy with it at all.
Very usefull comments guys. I was doubting between a Juki F600 and a Pfaff, ambition or expression. I tend to Pfaff, i thought this is THE MACHINE. But hier a read more negatives points over de pfaff than positives one. Hmm may be the Juki wound’t such a bad choice.
Can you please give some advices Vernelle. Still have to make a choice.
Where to start! I bought the Quilt Expression 4.0 18 months ago, and for about 1 year, all was OK. But then I repeatedly got ‘messages’ saying the ‘sensormatic buttonhole foot was on – please change’. It wasn’t. Then it would be, ‘set up for FMQ’ – it wasn’t. Then a ‘jam’ – no jam. A broken needle threader from the very beginning. The thread cutter now only cuts the top thread. Oh, so many more -altogether, a list of 12 faults or more. The dealer has had the machine for the last 11 weeks, saying there was nothing wrong, although he reluctantly replaced the needle threader. I still can’t get it to work though. But within 5 minutes of my trying the machine again, I was getting the same messages, and the machine simply won’t work sometimes. I did 4 short 9″ seams and the ‘buttonhole foot’ message came up 3 times. I asked for a new replacement model, but I had had it ‘too long’. They’ve offered me an ex-demonstration model but I’m not sure I want it. What would anyone advise?!!
I bought a used Pfaff Expression 4.0 a few days ago. The selling woman told me that it was not good at Free Motion Quilting, but that didn’t bother me, I have a longarm.
I tried it at her house, it was perfect for sewing decorative stitches, loved the features and bought it. She showed me the extra foot she had to buy for Free Motion Quilting, a darning foot.
On coming home I read the users manual. The foot she has been using for FMQ is only for use on the Expression 2.0 and 3.0! The 4.0 uses foot #6A a small little thing, but I tried it just now and it is lovely! So easy to guide the fabric around. I have heard that many dealers have given the wrong information in regards to FMQ with the 4.0.
Purchased the Expressions 4.0 in 2013 and is the worst machine ever. My problem is the bobbin winder fails to work most of the time. It has been in the sewing machine repair shop X 3. I did not purchase any extended warranty, so I must pay each time. Cost me a lot of money for little satisfaction and major frustration. No more Pfaff!
Can anyone please share the link where I can find more information about oiling this maschine?
You are not supposed to oil this machine!
I bought the QE 4.2 almost 2 years ago and HATE it! It’s been to the shop 5 times for timing issues. It is the worst FMQ machine. The top thread is constantly breaking. I can’t seem to ever get the tension adjusted right. I get the jam messages. It won’t cut the threads at times and won’t thread the needle at times. I’m getting it serviced again and then selling the darn thing and getting a Janome!
I have had my pfaff 4.0 for 5 years and it is now giving me major problems with any stitch other than straight or zig zag. When I sent it for repair it took the technician 10 weeks to repair due to Pfaff service NOT returning his emails asking for help. I believe him as I have dealt with him for a long time. He finally got it fixed ,no thanks to head office, but now 2 months later it’s acting up again! Needless to say I am considering a different brand of machine!
I bought the QE 4.0 in April 2014. I have had lots of problems with it. The needle threader has never worked right. I bought it from an authorized dealer.the tension seems to go in and out on it all the time. I spend a lot of time ripping seams out with it. I am almost ready to put it to the electronic recycle bin except that the machine wasn’t cheap.
I bought the 4.2 last year and have not had any trouble. Sews beautifully with an amazing selection of stitches. Love the IDT too.
I bought the 4.2 in March 2016 and have not had any problems at all. I love it!
I had problems with FMQ ever since I bought my QE 4.0 in 20013. I got a LA a few months after I bought my QE 4.0, so I gave up on FMQ with my Pfaff. This year, I tried FMQ on my QE 4.0 and still problems. As it needed to go in for service, I mentioned the problem. My tech said the when the tension needs to be set, there is a particular order in which that needs to be checked. He said that at Pfaff’s service school, they don’t emphasize that enough. As he set my tent ion following the correct order, my FMQ with the machine is 100% improved (just my technique needs work). The tension is great and I don’t break threads!
Could you describe correct order for setting the tension for FMQ?
I’m looking for a conversion chart for my automatic sensormatic button hole. To set the length of a button hole you have a choice between 1 and 18. 18 what? I need a conversion chart to tell me what those settings would be in inches.
does this machine have a stitch regulator? It seems to want to skip stitches.
I just purchase an older secondhand Q.E. 4.0, it was such a bargain I decided to ignore all the warnings. So far so good, I’m loving it I would like to ask about the monogramming picture in the review. Could you tell me what setting were used. My machines fonts look nothing like that!?
I have had a QE4.0 since probably 2012, and have had problems with the take-up lever, which I had fixed and also with the FMQ functions. They work intermittently, then the thread shreds, or stitches skip, and it seems to get worse at higher speeds. It is very frustrating, as FMQ was the primary reason I bought this machine. It’s gratifying to learn that others have had similar problems. I fell in love with Pfaff when I bought a used 1222E years ago. I love the Pfaff IDT. This machine is just not the best example, I guess.
How much does the Pfaff Expression 4.0 weigh and how long is it and how high is it?
How do I get back to the home screen after I have gone into the info screen? I always have to turn my machine off to get back to the home screen.
Had machine seviced because feed dogs not moving, thread bird nesting, bobbin winder does not work properly
After $240. For “tuneup”. The machine does not work
Nearest service center is 45 miles away-i am a senior who can no longer drive