bernette 59 vs PFAFF creative icon 3: compare the hoop workflow

Compare the embroidery setup, not just the biggest number

The bernette 59 page identifies a standard 120 × 180 mm hoop area and an included Multi-Position Hoop extending the layout up to 120 × 300 mm across positions. That is useful for names, borders and long motifs, but the 300 mm length is not one uninterrupted single-frame stitch field. The PFAFF creative icon 3 page states a maximum of 450 × 450 mm only with the optional Grand Turnable Hoop. Its U.S. standard-package list instead includes Superior 465 × 260, Deluxe II 360 × 200, Master II 240 × 150 and 120 Square II 120 × 120 mm hoops; those are named hoop dimensions, not a shared stated stitchable area. Do not buy the PFAFF on the assumption that its largest optional hoop is already in the box.

For a design that fits an included bernette hoop, the b59 has a clear package advantage: its longer 300 mm layout is documented as included. The PFAFF is relevant if you expect to use its optional Grand Turnable Hoop and its larger stated layout. In either case, confirm the seller's exact package and ask how the hoop handles a particular motif's repositioning and alignment.

Sewing space and physical setup are different scales

The PFAFF lists 310 mm of sewing space to the right of the needle, compared with 170 mm on the b59. Its 10.1-inch screen, 9 mm maximum stitch width and over-870-stitch claim also exceed the b59's 7 mm maximum width and 500 listed sewing stitches. These may matter for wide decorative work or large panels, but the maximum does not mean every stitch or needle combination can use the full width. Both are computerized combinations with separate sewing and embroidery arrangements, not sergers or dedicated longarm systems.

Physical mobility is the counterweight. The b59 manual lists a 7.01 kg sewing machine and 3.2 kg embroidery module; the PFAFF guide lists about 16 kg for the machine and 8 kg for its embroidery unit. The PFAFF is better approached as a stable, mostly stationary workspace. The b59 remains a substantial household machine, but its listed body and module are lighter.

Buttonholes, feeding and connected design tools

The b59 uses a drop-in bobbin and adjustable presser pressure, with its own buttonhole-count conflict between the U.S. FAQ and manual; compare the assessment's exact caveat rather than relying on a count. The PFAFF guide clearly distinguishes automatic Sensormatic buttonholes with the 5A foot from manual buttonholes with the 5M foot. It has integrated PFAFF IDT feeding, while the b59 assessment leaves its integrated-feed status unconfirmed and does not treat an optional walking foot as included.

The design paths are also not interchangeable. The b59's reviewed manual documents StitchDirect transfer and 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi; PFAFF describes wireless CREATIVATE communication, catalog access and app Design Placement for the creative icon 3. Neither finding promises universal compatibility with every outside design file. Check how your existing library reaches the machine, whether an account or service is needed, and what hoops fit your projects.

Which one matches the work?

Choose the bernette 59 if its included 120 × 300 mm multi-position layout suits your embroidery, you want its separate sewing/embroidery workflow, and the lighter listed machine/module pair matters. Choose the PFAFF creative icon 3 if the 310 mm sewing space, 9 mm stitch width and PFAFF-specific connected tools are useful, and you are prepared to verify or add the optional Grand Turnable Hoop for the 450 × 450 mm stated maximum. If you mostly sew plain seams and rarely embroider, compare sewing-only machines instead; either combination adds a module, hoops and setup tasks you may not need.