I will second the Brother suggestion. Be careful with the new inexpensive Singers out there, most aren't much good, even the ones that claim 'heavy duty'. (I unfortunately learnt this from experience!) I have had three Brothers now, one I had to leave in New Zealand when I moved, one I gave to my sister a few years ago when she showed an interest in quilting, and then the one I have now, which is a cheaper end one from Costco. It is computerized though.
I enjoy piecing too, but once I discovered fusible appliqué, I am now enjoying it too.