I have been wondering where all the other lovers of a brand of sewing machines have been on this question.
What sewing machine is best for me?
As quilters, I think we go through stages, upgrading as we go don't you? I have a Pfaff 7570 and old 1211 metal, I have two featherweights and two Baby Lock machines that I love to pieces.
I started with a used BabyLock Esante 2, which is electronic and did embroidery as well. I now use a quilters choice to take to classes and quilt group and an Elegante that stays at home, all bought used at a dealer and serviced be4 purchase.
6 of the gals in our quilt group had Janomes and all are now converts to BabyLock. They just seem to be much more user friendly.
I think the MOST IMPORTANT ISSUE OF ALL IS WHERE YOU CAN HAVE YOUR MACHINE WORKED ON. We have no dealers that will work on Singers or Kenmore which means those gals must ship their machines for tune ups or repair, warrenty or not.
My quilting friends all have an old favorite with which they will never part and they use those favs when good machine is in shop.
I think Bernina makes a lovely machine and Viking/Huskvarna?
used to be a good machine but I don't know about now. Singer doesn't make Singer and last I heard. I haven't heard anything about Elna since they sold to an investment group years ago when Eleanor Burns stopped using them.
I don't think you have to buy new, I never have. If one can afford it, terrific, if not, there are plenty of great machines available. I live 40 miles from town (not city mind you) and
I drove and drove and tried machines from each dealer before
I made a decision. And went back again and again to make sure of my choice (240) miles round trip everytime.
I think an all metal machine in the house or a very good old
reliable is a must. You can pick them up with a little knowledge
checking out websites on care and what to look for and don't want.
After 20 years of machine quilting, I am still sewing on a $10.00
table, garage sale, and my other machine table is plywood with four pretty legs that I put together. The p wood has finished side up, then bought molding for sides.
I guess I am trying to say is make a start, go to some classes as many will furnish machines. See what you like or if you will stay with it before making a major purchase.