I forgot to suggest not getting a machine at WalMart. They have new return policies, and they will not repair anything that goes wrong with the machine. Then you are stuck with the shipping costs back to Brother, Singer etc.
Also many of the Brothers do not have a metal base and do not stand up to quilting. I too, would only purchase a feather weight Singer. But since you will be piecing and may like the thread cutter and start button, up down feature, then check out the Janome 3160. Many dealers will put you on a wait list for a used 3160. Brubakerssewing.com does this. Also dealers discount their machines that they take to shows..