Originally Posted by
sewbizgirl
You can't beat the old, all-metal Singers. They are simple, stitch beautifully, and are usually pretty cheap to pick up. I found two Singer 301s in nice cabinets (and a bench seat!) at estate sales. $50 for one, and the second one I didn't need but couldn't leave it for $25. I keep a featherweight at my daughter's house, but those are more pricey.
I 100% echo Sewbiz. Check your local Craig's list, want ad digest and thrift stores (like Salvation Army store), heck even some antique shops have vintage all metal machines in good working order for less than $100. The only thing is consider other makes besides Singer. There are many good vintage brands out there.