Opinions needed on which machine would be best for me
 

Hi,
I am looking for another sewing machine. I am looking for something inexpensive, and so far I am thinking on the Janome Magnolia 7318 and Janome HD3000. I was hoping to get some opinions on which one might be better. I mostly quilt smaller items, do paper piecing, or craft items, not a lot of garment sewing. Thank you.

I don't really know anything about the machines but whenever I want to look for something I try to find it first on www.amazon.com because I get to read the reviews on them before I decide the purchase.
Hope that helps

Another good place to check out reviews of specific models is http://www.patternreview.com . To read the older posts, you need to register (but registration is free). Basically you can look up a brand name and then, in the list of reviews, look for the specific model you are interested in.

I haven't used the HD3000, but have used one of its predecessors (4618??). I have a 7318, which is fine for what it is. Both are going to be good solid mechanical machines with no frills (like needle up/down). The HD3000 has a needle threader and compartments to store the feet. The 7318 only has a slide out tray. I think the HD3000 comes with a few more feet too. For me, the HD3000 would slightly edge out the 7318, but I think the 7318 is prettier (whatever that's worth <g>).

Have you considered a vintage machine? There are some great ones out there that will do what you are looking for. For instance a Singer model 15-91 or a model 301.

A friend has a Magnolia, and I'd never touched one before. She said it was having trouble, so I took it home with me and I cleaned and oiled it. I was surprised at how "cheap" it was. I like Janomes. I have a Janome. But I wouldn't waste my time with a Magnolia. It was very lightweight and bounced when I sewed with it. I think I'd save my money and get a new $80 Brother or Singer instead.
I got my Janome at a pawn shop. I recommend if you're looking for a sewing machine to start at a pawn shop. I have gotten my last two clones at pawn shops for $15 each. Someone beat me to it, but I saw a Singer One going into layaway a few months ago! There are a lot of the "beginner" machines for $20-30 too.

if you can it is a good idea to visit dealers/shops & test drive machines---we are all different- and what one person may love you may hate...try out as many as you can then decide what features/machines YOU like

We are all different in our opinions and experiences. What do you consider to be " inexpensive"??? My range s $200-$500. Anything cheaper is probably not going last very long. I prefer computerized models vs mechanical. $500 is what i paid for my Janome 350. I am a huge Janome fan!

I am not interested in " vintage". I Have a 1953 Singer that i have never used. It belonged to my late aunt. It is a decoration for me. I love my Janome 9700 tho. I should probably use that Singer sometime.

Pattern review is great!
Sandy

I really think that the most important thing in choicing a machine is to choice a dealer that you can work with. You will want to have owners classes, a dealer that stands by what they sell. Some shops will offer a free first year cleaning/tune up. I work in a quilt store and see too many frustrated sewers who have bought their machine and never learn to use it, or buy a cheap machine that is worthless and takes away all they fun they should be having.
That said, I don't own a Husqvarna Viking, but the shop I work in sells them and after seeing them and how the company stands by them I have one on my wish list. Have fun shopping!

Thank you everyone for your helpful replies. I appreciate them all!

I agree. If you like paper piecing you will love a vintage machine.
The Singer 15-91 and 301 came to my mind too. These are straight stich though a 401 or rocketeer with cams will give you more options.

I agree with you. You couldn't pay me to sew on a vintage machine! I had a 1958 Montgomery Wards machine and you couldn't sew a straight quarter inch seam on that machine to save your life. Of course it didn't have such nice things as needle up/down and programable stitches either. I love my modern machines.