Since you have no way of trying out a machine and only 1 dealer in the area, I think your best bet is to online with several manufacturers (i.e. Brother, Janome, Pfaff, etc.). They can provide all the statistics, prices, sizes, models, and what they can do. Any brand you want can be shipped directly to you at the manufacturers cost. They also offer helpful internet assistance. Your local man is the one and only service you have and will probably jack the price up considerably if you order through him. One drawback is that if you need it serviced your local guy may not be too happy to assist you and you may need to send machine out for repairs.
Last edited by Marilyn Philips; 06-07-2012 at 02:08 PM.
Reason: I forgot to include the quote