lotsafabric

I already have an embroidery sewing machine. However, I need a back up sewing machine for when my embroidery machine is in use. Only thing is, I would like to know if any of you out there could give me some feedback on a machine that would be under $300. I just need a basic stitch machine. Any ideas? Thanks.

QuiltnNan

i have this one
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Brother-Co...S6000I/4764726
you can't really get a quilt under arm, though

AliKat

Would you consider a used machine, one with more features but less cost? If so, check your LQS's and quilting guilds.
I have also seen some really nice machines at estate sales.

Personally, I'd take my FW over anything else if I had a fancier machine. and ... it didn't cost that much. I consider it an investment.

ali

Candace

A vintage machine would be your best choice. A Singer 301, 401,501, FW etc. ALL can be purchased for under what you're looking to spend. Any other new machine in your price range will not compare in quality. :>

jcrow

I went to a 2nd hand store and bought a Kenmore sewing machine for $5. It came with instructions and a box of extra feet and parts. It worked great but a month later the 2nd hand store called and said a lady was there looking for an inexpensive sewing machine to use to make uniforms for her son's school. So, I sold it to her for $5. I already have 2 sewing machines and knew this was the right thing to do. But check out 2nd hand stores.

Ann L

I have a singer 99K as my back up. Does the trick and sews just a nice as my Pfaff.

Grambi

I use my Featherweight or Singer 301 and love sewing on both. I do have an inexpensive Singer in a box somewhere but haven't taken it out of the box since buying my Pfaff.

JUNEC

You might want to check your Yellow Pages - check for Sewing Repair Shops - we have one about 2 miles from where I live - the man is honest - has great prices & lots of machines to look at & try - I find they have better prices than your local LQS

Lori S

There are really great used machines. Do some shopping at the dealers, repair shops, craigs list, good will etc.

mom-6

My favorite is my featherweight! It sews a wonderful straight stitch and does well on multiple layers of even heavier fabrics like denim.

I also like the inexpensive Brother machine from Walmart. I passed mine on to a friend who did not have a machine. I had used it for over 3 years with no problems (other than broken needles from sewing over pins-my bad! or broken thread from letting it get wrapped around the spool pin when going too fast near the bottom of the spool).

Either of these would fit nicely into your budget. The Brother has several built in stitches including zigzag while the featherweight will only do a straight stitch unless you have the zigzag attachment.