I thought I needed to replace the needle shank and foot on my sewing machine and I'd be back in business. Long story short hubby let my daughters use the machine and they broke the foot and needle shank. Replaced those today and now it won't sew right and makes a really loud clanking sound. Fixing it will cost more than the machine is worth.

So, I'm in the market for a new to me sewing machine. My budget is really tight, under $150. I don't need any fancy stitches but would like to be able to FMQ but that's not a deal breaker. I'd like something that will be a workhorse so new, refurbished or previously loved works for me. What would you recommend?

Lisas, there are a TON of machines available on Craig's list... check there for a machine that will fit your budget and/or desires...I've seen some pretty sweet machines there for $50 or less. Not to mention the vintage machines that I love! :) Speaking of those vintage machines...a 201-2 Singer will drop the feed dogs for free motion, but it's a straight stitch only. Wonderful machine if you can find one! :)

I have looked on Craigslist but I don't know enough about sewing machines to know what is good/bad, features, etc. I looked up the 201-2 Singer and it looks like the one my Grandmother taught me to sew on. :)

In a low budget range I would buy a Brother. I have a simple one that is 12 years old. It only has 15 stitches but it has given me absolutely no problems. The only thing I have had to replace is the light bulb. There are more expensive Brother sewing machines. I bought a $400.00(80-stitch) Europro 2 years ago and have had nothing but problems, should've stuck with Brother. The simple one was in storage for the 2 years. When I got tired of fighting with the newer one,I got out my old Brother and oiled it. It worked perfectly,and that's why I would reccomend a Brother.

go to your local quilt shop that sells machines and they may have a used (reconditioned) one that some one traded in. You could get a better machine for a lower cost. Good Luck in finding one

I say brother too!

No matter what machine you decide on, you will have better luck going to a dealer. If you are looking for an inexpensive machine, find a dealer that takes trade ins and does reputable servicing of machines. He will more than likely have some sweet deals on a used machine that will fit your needs and your budget. The dealer where I teach classes, is very reputable and makes sure whatever machine he takes in on trade to put out for sale has been completely gone through, cleaned, oiled and adjusted so that it works as closely as it can to what it would have been out of the box. Happy hunting:D

I say Brother too. I've had my simple Brother machine for about three years, not a single problem! I have an LS 2125, which retails at about $80, you can't drop the feed dogs, BUT it comes with a little plate to put over them! :)

I have a Brothers machine that I keep for back up. I think I paid around $129 new for it. Only thing I have ever had to replace is the needle threader. Very nice machine. You can get them at Walmart.
If you would like a singer, check JoAnn's. They care singer and I believe you will find something in your price range.
I have to agree with some others. Keep an eye on Craig's list. They do have many older machines and sometimes they are the best machines.

The problem with buying on line is no warranty. Even if it looks like a great deal, machines are sold as is and you can end up with problems.The Brother dealer I used to work for would take trade ins , clean, oil, and make sure they were in good working order before he would let it out the door.
Best of luck to you, Gina in Swartz Creek, MI