did you contact Sear's and ask them where to find needles or if a universal needle will work. I think it is rare that a machine will not use a universal needle. However if you are thinking about buying a new machine- I just bought a Brothers straight stitch. It does not do any fancy stitches but for quilting you usually do not need any. I love it! It stitches 1500 stitches /min and is classified as a light industrial. It has a larger throat making FMQ easier. I got it at Amazon for $600 with free shipping and no tax. amazon is a authorized dealer so the warranty if honored. Others on this board give it a good review and I did try it out at a shop.