Welcome from Texas. Good luck in your search for a new machine. I have a Janome Magnolia 7330 which I bought in 2009 for $329. At the time I was just beginning to quilt & didn't know what I wanted but DH was insistent that I get a new machine for my new hobby. I like the machine a lot but sure wish the throat was larger (it's about 6 1/2"). Also, it's hard to get my hands in to thread the needle. Now, it does have a needle threader which makes that function easier. Even though I don't use a lot of fancy stitches, I wish it had more to select from. It does have a needle up/down feature which I Love & a slide that allows to change the speed of the machine. I have heard a lot of great things about the Ever Sewn Sparrow machine but I don't know anything about them other than what I've read online.
Have fun with your new hobby. This board is full of encouragement & help. We also love to see pictures...hint, hint, hint.
