Try and find an older sewing machine off Craig's list. Like other's mentioned the older ones are better. Look for a singer 15-91, singer 301, Singer 99. Some will be straight stitch only and no reverse but you can definitely quilt on them. I would look for a singer 15-91 if I were you. (has decent throat opening, reverse and zig zag but it is a heavy machine)
Originally Posted by Mona Lisa 2011
I need some one to commiserate with me. My sewing machine just died! I took it to the repair shop for a free estimate, but you know what that means.
I sew on my machine everyday and now that last simple pleasure is taken away.
I must say it has been a good friend to me since 1984. It is a Singer and was one of the first electronic ones on the market.
I have looked at "new" machines, but the ones that compare to mine are so expensive.
It looks like I will be hanging up my quilting. Getting old is not for the faint at heart!