I have been using the Janome sewing machines. I have two. The one that I would recommend is the Janome Platinum. It runs around $450. It weighs 11#, is very portable to take to classes, etc; it is also a 'work horse'. I also have the 'top of the line' Janome for quilting, but if I need a good 'stand-by' I will use the Platinum. It has numerous stitches to choose from, can lower the feed dogs to 'free-motion' quilting.