If you do look at buying a new machine in order to do machine applique using a blind-hem stitch, blanket stitch, or even a zigzag stitch -- make sure that the machine has adjustable stitch length and stitch width. You really want those features so you can adjust the stitch to your liking. Many of the less expensive new machines (in many of the major brands) have all "built-in" stitches, and no manual adjustments to their length and width, making them much less desirable for machine applique work.