Good Morning
 

New quilter and member from Michigan. I am taking a beginning course in quilting and have loved being a busy crafter. I would imagine my house is as full as anyone's here with projects of all sorts. Glass torching,scrapbooking,jewelry ,yarn hobbies to name a few. Forums are a great way to learn and I am excited to find this one. I know from past forums that questions and comments can be sticky …but I do have one question on machines. Is there a thread on here that supplies any positive information on the purchasing of a new machine? I know a test drive is a must, needs, budget, buy local, warranty and repair and space etc. Any other good tips will be appreciated.
Thanks for reading and I look forward to learning! Anne

Welcome to the board by way of the Gulf of Mexico, Corpus Christi, Tx. It's pretty much anyone's opinion as to what make and model to buy. We suggest local but some good deals are found on line. Shipping can be pretty pricey. All depends on what you need your machine to do. If you don't mind used, you may want to check out some of the estate sales in your area. I got a nice Singer 401a at an estate sale for $150.00 with attachments included. You always want to have access to the manual for any machine. Often you can download them online for free or very little. It all depends. I also have a Singer 2662 about 10 years ago at our local sewing center. My machine are not quilting machines but I can still use them for quilting. Many members will give you an overwhelming about of information. Almost too much information (seems like). Too much is better than not enough though. Check the different threads for sewing space (Mission Organization) etc. Photos are always fun to view. Have fun!

Welcome from Oxford, Michigan!:)

Waving hello, and welcome! Lots of fun and info here. There have been many threads on topic of machines. Do you have a list of features you'd like in a machine?
I'm another to suggest you look into older machines. I have a Featherweight, and a Singer 301A Both do lovely stitching! I also have a Pfaff that's 17 years old.
Have fun! :)

Hello and welcome to the board, from New Hampshire.

:) welcome from se TX

Thanks all. Oxford..I am in Rochester. My current machine is a Kenmore form 1977! Whoa, oldie! But I won it in a sales contest so my return value has been great. I am trying to keep on a budget and I realize that many machines are not sold at MSRP. I went to a store yesterday and looked at a Janome and Brother.Both have button hole capabilities and 50 to 80 stitches. Around $499. store price. Also a BabyLock but I am not really interested in a serger concept right now. So I guess I am just confused as to which way to go. ha, I am the same way with fabric so I just overbuy to be safe.:)

Welcome from Arizona

Hello Anne and welcome. I'm a new member also ........ from Canada