I have been looking for a lighter weight machine just for the same reason. For workshop or sew-in. Kenmore makes a light weight on I saw several of them at a sewing machine store. $129.00 to 139.00. There are several other kind that are light weight. Janome has a new one that is 12 lbs but its $500.00. So just look around until you can find the one you really want.In your price range. I have seen some everyday that I look on craig's list. They will be brothers or singer. Some truddle.Or Kenmore's Good luck on your search. If your interested in buy from a store out of town pm me and I will tell you the name of the store that had the small kemores