Thinking of buying a new sewing machine
I've done several searches on this board and numerous other sites and am getting more and more confused about machines. What I want is a long harp sewing machine with decorative stitches. No interested in a sewing/embroidery combination. This will replace my trusty Janome HT2008.
A free arm would be nice but not absolutely necessary if it adds too much to the price, as I will be keeping my Brother 6000i. I don't do much in the way of garment sewing these days so the 6000i would suffice for hemming sleeves, slacks, etc.
I have the Brother PQ1500s that is great for free-motion quilting, a Singer 15-91 I use primarily with a walking foot for SID, since I'm too lazy to change the Brother back and forth. I would like a new machine that is also good at FMQ as one of these days I'll need to downsize to just two or three machines.
So, this new machine is for general all-purpose use and to embellish quilts with fancy designs, and possibly FMQ in the future.
I'll be going to a dealer that is only 180 miles away next Friday -- Austin Sew and Vac. They carry Pfaff, Brother, and Janome. When I called I was told they have several used and trade-ins for sale also.
The reason I'd like recommendations here is because of the distance, I only get to the Austin area three or four times a year. If they happen to have a trade in I like, it would be nice to know if folks on this Board knows how they work for various functions.
Price-wise I'd like to stay below $2000.00 but might be willing to go higher for an exceptional machine.