Quick Summary:
The Elna eXperience 560 is a fully equipped computerized sewing machine that hits the ultimate sweet spot between accessible portability and time-saving automation. By stepping up to this model, you gain access to premium features that dramatically speed up your workflow, most notably a programmable automatic thread cutter and an included extra-large extension table.
Whether you are a dedicated garment sewist working with tricky knits, a quilter needing extra space, or simply someone who wants a machine that takes the tedious, manual steps out of your creative process, the eXperience 560 delivers precise, high-quality results in a lightweight, class-ready 14.1 lb package.
Best for:
Sitting in our "Advanced" tier, the eXperience 560 is perfect for intermediate garment sewists, active quilters, and those upgrading from a mechanical starter machine. If you attend sewing classes or retreats and need a highly capable, feature-rich machine that isn't too heavy to carry, this is a fantastic choice.
Why we Love it:
We love the Elna 560 at Boho Fabrics because it represents one of the best out-of-the-box values in the computerized lineup. The jump from the 530 to the 560 is incredibly impactful for garment makers and quilters: you gain the automatic thread cutter, 70 additional stitches, the 1/4" seam foot, and the extension table. It provides high-end convenience without a high-end price tag.
Key Features:
- Time-Saving Automation: The automatic thread cutter is a game-changer. With the push of a button—or programmed to trigger automatically at the end of a seam—it snips both your top and bobbin threads, keeping your hands on your fabric and your sewing space tidy.
- Mastering Stretch & Knits: With the adjustable presser foot pressure dial, you can lighten the machine's grip on highly stretchable knits like cotton spandex or French terry, ensuring your hems and necklines lay perfectly flat without waving.
- Room for Larger Projects: It comes standard with an extra-large extension table right out of the box, giving you the expanded, flat surface area needed to maneuver heavy coats, bulky bags, or quilt sandwiches comfortably.
Specifications:
- Speed: Up to 820 Stitches Per Minute (SPM)
- Stitches: 100 built-in stitches and 7 one-step automatic buttonholes
- Max Stitch Width / Length: 7mm width / 5mm length
- Feed System: 7-Piece Feed Dog with drop feed capability
- Convenience: Automatic programmable thread cutter, backlit LCD screen, built-in one-hand needle threader, speed control slider, and adjustable foot pressure
- Included Feet: 7 standard feet (Standard, Overedge, Zipper, Satin Stitch, Blind Hem, 1/4" Seam, and Automatic Buttonhole with stabilizer plate) plus an extra-large extension table and hard cover
FAQ:
Does it have an automatic thread cutter? Yes! It features a built-in automatic thread cutter. You can press the button to snip your threads instantly, or program it into the machine's memory to cut automatically after a locking stitch.
Can I sew knits with it? Absolutely. The adjustable presser foot pressure dial is exactly what you need for sewing knits. Lighten the pressure, pop in a ballpoint or stretch needle, and use the built-in stretch stitches for flawless, wave-free knit seams.
Does it have a free arm? Yes! You can slide off the accessory storage box to reveal the free arm, which makes hemming pant legs, sewing cuffs, and working on small children's clothing incredibly easy.
Things to Know Before Buying:
This is a 7mm machine, which is standard for precision garment construction. However, if you are looking to do very large, bold decorative stitching, you might want to explore our 9mm machine lineup (like the eXcellence 680+ or Skyline S6). Additionally, while it handles heavy fabrics very well, at 14.1 lbs it does not have the massive, heavy-duty chassis of a machine like the HD3000 or the Skyline series, which are built to be stationary workhorses.
Closest Comparisons:
- Elna eXperience 560 vs. Elna eXperience 530: The 560 is the direct upgrade to the 530. By choosing the 560, you gain the automatic push-button thread cutter, an adjustable presser foot pressure dial (critical for knits!), an included extension table, and a jump from 30 to 100 built-in stitches.
- Elna eXperience 560 vs. Janome Skyline S3 AE: Both sit in our Advanced tier and feature 7mm widths and 820 SPM. The Elna 560 is highly portable (14.1 lbs), making it great for taking to classes. The Skyline S3 AE is much heavier (20.9 lbs) with a larger 8.3-inch throat space, making it a better choice if you want a heavy, stationary machine for a dedicated sewing desk.