About 3 years ago I bought one of the $199.00 Singers - made for school with home ec programs. They have a truck sale with these macines several times a year at my local JoAnne's. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this machine!! It is all gear driven, no electronics at all, and it sews like a dream. I do wish that it have a larger throat, as it is difficult to actually quilt a larger piece on it, but as far as sewing and piecing my quilts - I don't think I will EVER switch to another machine for that. Good luck