The thrift stores around here sell sewing machines for about $20-50, and one of the shops in particular is really good about testing the machines. Their machines come with a sample of the stitches sewn on that machine and have tags on the side listing any problems, missing parts, etc. I wish I had a TON more space because I love the looks of all those old machines but really can't find an excuse to buy one! (I still have my own "vintage" backup/portable machine I bought when I first moved out of the house!)