Be sure to check your local craigslist or the local vac-sew shop. We have a couple around St. Louis that regularly list some nice older machines (ie Singers from FW to refurbished models from 60's & 70's) that will do what you need for quilting/piecing. Folks have picked up nice machines from garage sales as well. If you have a machine that works for now and can take the time to look, you can find a bargain out there.