My first sewing machine was an old "White" that I bought at an auction, when Montgomery Wards sold the old clothing factory in Portland, OR. Number 2, was a free, cheap, singer that I won in a drawing. Number 3 was a low end model from Walmart. My new quilting machine was a gift to me, from me, with an inheritance. I do not sew for profit unless you consider smiles as a profit. LOL! I have never taken an actual class, so I never thought about, or heard about a 'featherweight' until I joined this board. I have seen a few ads lately that show brightly colored 'feather weights, and really love the Raspberry colored on I have seen in the ad, so I guess if I ever get another machine, that will probably be that one.