schoolteacher

I am in need of a new machine. My Viking of 40 years has bit the dust. I need a machine without all the bells and whistles, minimal array of stitches, drop feed, easy to use, about $300 or less. I have looked online and am leaning toward a Janome or Brother. Any suggestions?

DogHouseMom

By "minimal array of stitches" do you mean you need ONLY straight stitch, straight stitch AND zig-zag, or both of those along with a few other decorative stitches??

If you only need SS and ZZ then I highly recommend one of the many vintage machines and $300 will get you a good working machine WITH a cabinet.

SS & ZZ only - there is a wide array of Singer's that make a beautiful stitch, are easy to operate, and easy to clean and repair by yourself. These machines have been going since they were manufactured and will KEEP going for decades yet to come if you take care of it.

The next era of vintage machines have Cams that can make a limited number of decorative stitches, button holes - etc. You have to be a little more careful choosing one of these machines to make sure you are getting a good one with metal gears as opposed to plastic gears.

Visit the Vintage section here on QB.

http://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage...thusiasts-f22/

Dolphyngyrl

Brother PC -420 if you can afford is nice, I think you can get it but is over the 300, I have seen them for about 360 at the cheapest to 400 but it is very nice machine. I think the PC-210 might be in your range, but I can't remember what features it is missing as compared to the 420 because they are very similar. The 420 is one of the most popular brother models that gets great ratings. It has a larger harp then some of the low end brothers, and also has the all metal frame as opposed to plastic.

patchsamkim

I think you will have trouble finding a GOOD machine for less than 300 unless you can find a used machine, maybe a trade-in. If you had a Viking, you have had a good machine, and you might struggle with a machine that isn't made well. Go and try out the machines you mentioned, but also look for a used machine that may fit in your budget. Good luck!

Jennie and Me

I have the Viking Quilt Designer and I love it...however, if it ever goes to sewing machine heaven I will stick with vintage machines. I rarely use any of the fancy stitches on my Viking. I've bought several vintage machines off of E-Bay with good luck. If you only want basic stitches I would definitely go vintage. They are made so much better than the new machines and you can do most of the maintenance yourself. JMHO

Boscobd

I just purchased a Viking Emerald 118 last weekend and absolutely love it. I am using it as an all purpose workhorse machine for piecing and general sewing (like tote-bags made out of canvas - goes thru several layers like butter!). It was priced at $379 at a local sewing shop - a bit over what you are looking to spend, but It is well worth the little extra $.

Silver Needle

I agree with Sue. But we need to know what features you really need to give better advice.

KwiltyKahy

If you have dealer in your area check out the trade ins. You get more bang for the buck and if they are a good dealer the tech has gone through them and made sure they are working well.

Nanny's dollface

I have a Viking Emerald 118 and absolutely love it! Although, I also have a Janome Horizon 12000' I love love my Viking as like Boscobd, the Viking is my workhorse for all my piecing and sewing. WWould not trade it for anything.

Onebyone

I don't know of any new machine under $300 that will last long term.