Suggestions for buying a used or older sewing machine
If one is not mechanically talented -
Make sure it works before you buy it.
Which can also be a challenge for a newbie that has no idea of how a machine is supposed to work.
some " surprises" ive had (because i did not know sny better)
There are left homing machines - I did not know that
a motherboard that is kaput will be renamed and not replaceable
Really old machines have spindle bobbins or use uncommon needles
I think i would rather buy a machine that Grandma used a lot and nay have worn spots than a machine that was hardly ever used.
Again - if possible, make sure it works before taking it home.
If an instruction manual is still available - Bonanza!!