Originally Posted by Dolphyngyrl
Some of the straight stitch machines are heavy duty and cheaper if you don't do applique they might be more suited to your needs like the brother PQ1500s or the janome 1600P I think it is. These are about 800-900 I believe, and are more heavy duty than cheaper models. J
I have both of these machines - the Janome 1600P and the Brother PQ1500. They have 9" harps and are both wonderful workhorses. I bought the Janome from a private seller for $400, and my DH bought the Brother with a New Joy frame from a private seller for $400. They're $800 brand new. I agree with other posters who advise you to buy gently used. Look around, check with your LQS's to see if they know someone who wants to sell or upgrade.