an older sewing machine has more durable (metal) parts, and they sew very well. i purchased a treadle sewing machine a few months ago-cleaned it up and replaced the belt and it sews great-and with costs of everything going up and outta sight, i can still machine sew without electricity! i still use my serger, and i still love my computerized innov-is 1000, but i also like the idea of not spending any more money than i have to.