I used a 3160 Janome that provided for a class. Loved the machine!! It certainly is just a piecing machine because it has a small throat. This machine just purred and has a small table that is included. It's also very light 14 lbs so it's great for classes. I have a lightweight Brother for classes now, but next year I'm taking a cruise and I can buy the 3160 machine after at a discount because it is the machine that is used as a loner for the cruise. My little Brother is great but I"m sure it will be worn out by next year as it was only a $200 machine. I don't think you will be disappointed in the 3160.