Husqvarna Emerald 116 Sewing Machine Review

On the hunt for a great mechanical machine without the extravagance of computerised stitches and screens?

We’d love to point you in the direction of the Husqvarna Emerald 116 Sewing Machine. It’s a sturdy little machine with a good amount of stitches and options that you’ll be able to sew anything you fancy, but it isn’t overly complicated or have unnecessary features like many computerised sewing machines might be.

This machine in particular is great for anyone who is either just starting to sew, sew as a hobby and you don’t need too many bells and whistles, or you just prefer a machine that’s simple to use and navigate. Mechanical machines are pretty straightforward to use, just needing to turn a dial to select a stitch or change the width. The reverse lever is both easily accessible on the front of the machine but tucked out of the way on an angle so that it’s not easily bumped.

Husqvarna machines have been made since the late 19th century. The Swedish company has had plenty of time to perfect their craft. They’re known to put out durable and sturdy sewing machines of many different varieties. From mechanical to computerised sewing machines, and machines with only utility stitches to luxury machines with all the bells and whistles, they make a bit of everything for any kind or level of sewist. Quilters and dressmakers alike sing the praises of Husqvarna machines.

The Husqvarna Emerald 116 is a mechanical machine that has 16 stitches built in. One of those stitches is a 1-step automatic buttonhole for the dressmakers out there. It has all of the utility stitches that you need for any kind of project and sews them well and smoothly. You can customise them, too! You can get a maximum stitch width of 5mm. You’ll be able to customise any stitch to sew exactly how you need it for your project.

This machine has a top loading bobbin, too. A top loading bobbin is easier to thread into the machine. It’s also easier to clean and troubleshoot if you have to. By simply removing the needle plate, you can see the whole bobbin working system, see how it moves, and can remove any little lint bunnies that are hanging around in your machine. By cleaning you machine regularly, you’re ensuring that the life of your machine is extended as long as possible.

You’ll have plenty of space to work on the Emerald 116, even for a smaller machine. It has 6 inches of workspace to the right of the needle. That’s enough space to sew any garment or roll up a throw-sized blanket to quilt!

The needle threader that this sewing machine comes with is very easy to use. It glides smoothly as you work to thread the machine, and never misses the eye of the needle. It makes threading a lot easier for anyone who might have minor issues with their fingers working deftly.

The Husqvarna Emerald is a compact machine. It has a small footprint so it can fit into any sewing space and be easily stored. It can fit into any closet when not in use but is also small enough that leaving it out on the table won’t take up too much space!

We know you’ll love the stitch guide found on the bottom of the machine. It can help you to know what foot to use for which stitch and to know the starting width and length of each one. From there you’ll know which way to customise them if you need to.

The Emerald 116 comes with a hard cover case. The hard case adds a bit of protection against any bumps or bangs while traveling or when it’s stored away. It also protects against dust and dirt. Dust is one of your machine’s worst enemies, so having a good case or cover really extends the life of your sewing machine.

If the Husqvarna Emerald 116 sounds like the perfect machine for you, let’s get you sewing on it! Not yet ready to make the commitment or need us to answer a few questions about it or comparable machines? Give the Sewing Studio a call! We can help you to pick out the perfect sewing machine for you, your skillset, and your projects’ needs. We’ll get you sewing on the machine of your dreams!