This is a good thread to revive. Now that lots of people have bought machines to make masks, the price of some machines has gone up. My fancier stitch Brother CX155LA was great until a bearing froze and it no longer can turn the needle. I know because I can see it. I took my machine apart because our service repairman has been inundated with repair jobs and won't take any new jobs until August (maybe). My machine had been put to good use making lots of quilts for kids, pillow covers, etc. Sadly, it seized up after only 2 years. Watching repair videos on YouTube helped me see what's wrong. I don't think it would be worth paying for the service call plus parts, since my machine cost less than $200. Disposable machines make me sad too because I really loved sewing on this model.
Fortunately, I have two mechanical machines that still work. My Janome jw5622 has been working since 2016. My Fashion Mate 237 Singer (bought new in 1969) still runs like a champ and has all metal gears. It weighs 32 pounds and was built in Italy. I'm dithering about getting another electronic machine because I so loved the needle down, speed control, and serpentine stitch.
Right now, the only machines available locally are Berninas which I consider too expensive for my budget. My Baby Lock dealer has sold out all machines which cost less than $2,500. They say September they might get more machines in. Online is the option left or wait until the fall.
Last edited by RavenBlack; 07-04-2020 at 11:25 AM.