cherdt1083

I am planning on buying a brand new sewing machine. Primarily, I quilt and make assorted craft items like burp cloths, bags/diaper bags, etc. Lots of assorted crafts but not much sewing of clothing items so far but I would like to start making simple clothing items like tank tops, skirts, re-purposed clothes, etc.

I have been sewing for 32 years on a $99 JC Penney sewing machine my Mom bought for me for my 25th birthday. It has been a good and faithful machine and I have made hundreds of quilts on this machine that range in size from baby crib to king sized. I hate to admit that I am a bit emotional over the reality that this machine has probably sewn its' last quilt.

I also have a Janome Decor Excel II 5024 sewing machine that I purchased two years ago from our local schools' surplus auction. It was the teachers' model. Honestly, I have not been able to figure out how to use this machine properly but it seems clunky and awkward so far. Maybe some one can tell me why or how to figure out what I'm doing wrong with this machine.

I have a price range of $800 to $1,200 to spend on a new machine and would greatly appreciate input as to which brands and models quilters here who have much more experience with various machine would be willing to share. I believe I would prefer electronic over mechanical and would really like a larger variety of stitches but beyond that, I'm fairly clueless as to what I should look for.

My requests comes from searching for reviews on a Singer 8500Q that is on sale at Joann's. My heart says to buy a Bernina and lots of reviews say Brother makes great machines. It's all mind-boggling for sure but I need to make a decision and purchase very soon.

Thanks to all of you in advance for any and all input.
Cindy