I had read all the messages about featherweights and the older machines and couldn't quite get why people liked them so much. Well, I went to an auction and picked up an old HEAVY machine in a carrying case for 27.50. I took it to the repair shop and paid 85.00 to have the cords replaced (bare wires!!!) new belt, oiled, etc. It turned out to be a 1920 White Family Rotary machine that was converted to electric. WOW! I started sewing with it and could not believe how cool it was! Nice even stitches, never missing, smooth as silk, heavy and solid so it doesn't move around. Now I get it! I felt like I could relate to my grandmothers. Can't wait to start a project.