My Mom used Singers all the way...but we were never allowed to touch them (with rare exceptions) as they were a very important part of our household income. My first very own machine was a (gently) used black Featherweight, which I subsequently traded in for a newer model. I went through several of them but now have 15 or 16 different ones so I guess I'm done (for now...), including a new Janome 6600P and an almost new Husqvarna Platinum. Also have a treadled 128, and several other older ones. Did I mention I LOVE SEWING MACHINES????