Hello Jane! I purchased the Emore machine by Baby Lock and I think they are down to around $599... It is embroidery only, which is what I wanted as I love my Husqvarna Sapphire that I have had for a few years and didn't want to RE-Learn anything! It is Very simple and easy to operate. Can leave for few months and come back and use with out having to re-read manual on how to operate!
I down load free designs from internet and use what colors I have...I don't run out and purchase new colors all the time...for example I use the "cornflower" blue that I have instead of the "ocean" blue the pattern asks for. No one but you has to know the Exact color!!! Purchased clearance embroidery thread from JoAnn's when I first got machine, and have found close colors every design I have done. When ever someone has a clearanced color, I pick up.
Stabalizers I only use on really thin materials...
Good Luck!