I have the Singer Futura Quintet, which is a sewing, quilting and embroidery machine. I love it, it does a good job. But, it is out of your price range. Just saying, not all Singers are "plastic junk". I would recommend that you start with a machine that is not an embroidery machine. The Brothers are good machines at a price that is more affordable. I also have a Juki 2010Q that is a work horse. But, it is more expensive. Brothers are probably going to be your best bet. I agree with checking what your machine really does, sometimes we already have what we need, just have to learn all it will do. Good luck and happy quilting.