Tom, I have 2 Kenmore machines and a Phaff. The Sears machines are made by Janome and all of the parts are interchangable. I use my Kenmore every day and have had very good luck with them. Sears also have a service department if you need repair. Have your wife take pieces of fabric whe will be sewing on with her to test. At any shop they will only show you fabric that sews very easy on the machines. Many shops and fabric stores offer classes in quilting. Just have her test,test, test any machine before she gets it. Good Luck, and happy hunting. QuiltNama