Brother machine rocks !! I have had 3 now and had no problems with them ! last one died, its beyond repair I am told (well I only paid 225.00 10 years ago and it had given its all !!LOL), the embroidery/sewing machine I have now (by Brother also) is wonderful !! It sews and does what I need and that is what I wanted ! Mass produced or hand made, as long as it sews and one is happy with it .. Buy what one can afford !