There are several good choices out there, First find a real dealership where she can get support, lessons, maintenince etc. when needed. ASk if they do repair at the place of purchase or do they send the machines out for serivce. Look at warrenty! good brands that come to mind are Viking, Babylock, Bernina, Janome and Phaff. Make sure to tell the dealer that she is a quilter and needs the proper feet to go with the machine ( walling foot, free motion and 1/4 inch foot )... do purchase extra bobbins .. a quilter can never have enough bobbins. Determine ahead of time if she wants a machine that embroiders as well as sews this will help to narrow your search.
If she has a favorite Local quilt shop , they may also sell machines and have some knowledge of what she might want or has had her eye on.
Last edited by Lori S; 11-23-2011 at 06:50 AM.