I started out with a machine that could make quilts at home , and at classes. It's at about 20lbs. I also want some switches for quilting built in . Also a thread the needle function. What was nice is the dealer gave me lifetime of classes to learn the machine and basic sewing. I had never had done any sewing before. I wanted make a quilt for my daughter who was taking chemo. People on chemo get so cold while getting the stuff administered to them. It has worked out so different than I ever would have thought. It's been seven years and I still making quilts for people with medical problems. I do all the piecing and quilting , ( can't afford the price of a long arm). So pick a machine for your needs now, and maybe what you could do some day in the future.