I too really like the Jem Gold for classes/travel. If you use the clearview 1/4" foot with that machine, you will find it covers the dogs well and you will get an easy, perfect 1/4" seam. The straight stitches are as arrow straight as those of the featherweight. That foot makes a world of difference and I have it for each of my Janomes. The Jem Gold is well-made inside and out and actually has a 1 amp motor. I liked mine so much I bought the HD 3000 for a bit more versatility and it is now my go-to machine. The FW is also great and I do have one of those too. I don't use it as much as the others. All are really great. I do also concur with the merits of the 301.. offers a little more room too and not much heavier than the FW. For just piecing, Brother offers some nice little machines with more stitch offerings than the Jem Gold and those are popular too for a couple hundred (could be more now).