Sorry if this is a dumb question, but is there a combination sewing/embroidery machine that doesn't cost an arm and a leg? I love my current Kenmore but would like a machine that would do nice embroidery as well.

I think I am going to be watching this topic, as I am in the same boat.... love my kenmore.... looked into some vikings low end one is 1500.00 +.... they did have a singer onsale for 599.00 just don;t know what to do..
would rather have one from a dealer so I can have lessons, and if I have any issues I have someplace to go.....

I have a singer futura CE 200 or 250, cant remember #. It was not expensive compared to embroidery machines. I like this one as I can download patterns from the internet to the machine using usb cable rather than having to buy design cards.

If you like your Kenmore, then why don't you look at embroidery only machines. They usually are a bit less expensive and you can be embroidering on one while sewing on the other. As mentioned, I would look for one with a USB port rather than specific emb. cards.

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss...oidery+machine

I bought mine from here look for one with a usb port I love my little Brother SE350 but it does not have a computer port had to get PED Basic

I have a Brother Disney SE2700 and I have been doing embroidery and quilting on it.

updated - it is very limited on the embroidery area, sometimes wish it was larger.

I have a singer futura 150 paid $599 for it. The embroydery is off the computer, but except for the arm it quilted wonderfully, love that the goes down. I have used it more for sewing and quilting and less for embroidery but I am hoping that will change.

Sorry, feed dogs go down. Must have stood behind the door when they were giving out brains.....thought they said trains.... LOL

Buy another machine, that way you can sew and embroider at the same time!!

Baby Lock and Brother both have some reasonably priced machines. There are dealers that sell used machines that come with warranties.

I would suggest buying one that hooks up directly to your computer. Other wise the money you save on the machine, can be upped by the additional equipment needed for the designs.

Singers around the $600 amount hook up to the computer, but they don't have hoops as large as some of the other more expensive machines.

If you are wanting very large hoop sizes, then you may want to look into gently used machines.
Get in writing from the dealer though that the machine will still be under warranty. Not all warranties may be transferable. :D:D:D

Thank you for all the advice/information! And for not thinking it was a dumb question :) This info will really help me in deciding which way to go and what machines to look at. Thanks again everyone.