I learned to sew on a featherweight my mother purchased new in 1936 for $125. I let my neices have it after my mother died as she had taught them to sew on it. It was about wornout as it had been used on a very regular basis since 1936. I was lucky enough to find one in mint condition at a local yard sale. It still had that new smell so I don't think the lady ever used it. I take it on retreat if I am just doing piecing. I also own three Berninas as well as a serger and embroidery machine.