First of all, welcome quilterdgt! So glad to have you here. :) I think it's wonderful that you want to honor your mother by putting her things to good (and beautiful) use. :) I think your 401 might just be perfect for what you want to do as long as it's been maintained well. I have a Featherweight 221 and a Singer 301 and I use them all the time to piece my quilts. I take turns with them as well as my mom's 50+ Necchi and my new Juki. No one gets left out at my house. LOL Give it a try, and I hope it all works well for you! :)