Here! Here! CJ!
TQS is Bernina sponsored, other shows and sites are sponsored by other brands. They tend to much more brand specific that I have seen.
I think TQS does a good job of using the brands that they are comfortable with (both Alex and Ricky are Bernina owners from way back) and recognizing that not everyone has that machine. They do tell everyone to check their machine for specifics.
My original machines only had the straight stitch, all I ever felt was envy for those that had a machine that could do a zig zag.
Alex and Ricky, to my knowledge, have never appeared on TQS and tried to sell Bernina machines.

Jean in a slippery Windsor, ON

I'm just curious, why are you made to feel inferior? When I don't have something that is portrayed as the "best" it doesn't make me feel inferior.

Only you can make yourself feel that way. Enjoy your quilting and your machine, whatever it is! It's all about having fun and being creative. You can do that with a TOL Bernina or your fingers and a needle and thread.

Have you "Tinkled" today?

Bernina is an original sponsor. It would be silly to spend $$$$ on sponsorship and then not promote their product. Thanks to Bernina, TQS was able to get started! You don't have to own a Bernina but at least be thankful that their sponsorship helps to bring a great subscription to so many.

And be honest, the TQS shows, articles and challenges ARE all about quilting! The techniques, news and other info are applicable to ALL machine brands.

I would suggest concentrating on something else.

I understand how you feel, but when they are a sponsor for TQS it is expected. I make drapery and window treatments for a living and have been through 2 Berninas - the 1st lasted 10 years and then traded it in -- I didn't like the 2nd one as well, but it also lasted 10 years and then burned the motor out on it.

I also couldn't afford a new Bernina and looked at the Janome model 6500 and LOVE IT! Affordable and really like sewing on it. Have had it about 3 years.

Sharon in windy Colorado

First I want to state that I have the greatest respect for the Bernina brand sewing machines. However, with that said, I am truly tired of every single video quilting demonstration and instructional referrals talking about the wiz-bang function on their Berninas. What ever happened to JUST QUILTING? I have a wonderful Janome that has many functions and is a great machine, yet somehow in the quilting world I'm made to feel inferior because I do not own a Bernina. I personally cannot justify the price of a Bernina machine when my Janome can do just as much. I'm comfortable with my decision until I see every demonstration being done with a Bernina. Obviously Bernina is the 'big boy' on the block and they can afford to sponsor and promote their products. However, it would be greatly appreciated by many of us if our machines were represented or at least be considered when demonstrations are given so that general instructions can be discussed instead of specific functions pertaining to a specific brand of machine.