So I am getting a new sewing machine...but I know next to nothing about quilting machines! I would really like a machine that I can quilt as well as just sew everyday things on too (I'm a costumer and I love to make clothes).....does anyone have any suggestions? My budget isn't tiny but I can't afford anything ridiculous either....something quality but affordable!

Go for the best Janome you can afford!!

Go to your local dealers and test drive every brand you can find to test on! That's the only way you're going to know what you want of the available features on machines. Have a price range in mind when you go to tell the dealers so that they're not rushing to the most expensive machine in the store. ;)

I love my Janome...but I've seen a Viking or two that would LOVE to come live with me if I could afford to bail them out of the store!

Go to the dealerships and test drive them. I have a Janome 6600. About $1200.00. You have used that one and you know how it works. I don't think I would buy another one. Look at a Bernina. Most importantly, in my opinion is to decide where you will get the best support from the dealer. My Janome dealer sucks and that has been a problem for me since I bought my machine. What you need to look for with quilting machines is how it sews when doing free motion when you go backwards. Remember how I gave you the scrap and sat you down to play with mine? that is what you need to do with a test drive. Take the sandwich with you (top batting and bottom fabrics) and just stitch up a storm on the same model you are thinking about. This will also give you a good idea about the service you will get from the dealer after the sale. Babylock is a good one to look at too. Try them all. Then decide. Don't fall for any high pressure sales tactics. That sale will come back around.

I Like by new Brother Machine - the Laura Ashley 2000. It quilts and has about 400 stitches. Even 2 or 3 alphabets.

Janome Horizon 7700
http://content.janome.com/index.cfm/...Feature_Videos
I just love mine and it has an 11" space to maneuver in.

I second this suggestion!!

Babylock Espire, handsdown. Best machine I have ever had. One of my teachers has had all of the brands out there and she said the best by far are babylocks and berninas

Thanks Fez! There are a couple different dealerships in town so I'm just gonna have to price shop and see what I like I guess!! The LQS has a bunch as well and she'd let me sew on them all day if I wanted to! I'll keep you updated!!!

Husq Viking for me