Quite honestly, for the price range you are stating, my recommendation is for a Brother machine. I have two models, one is an Innovis 2000 (my home machine with all the bells and whistles) the other is a Project Runway model (I forget the model #) This one was about $300.00. I got it from a machine shop so it has the back up of lessons and servicing. I have been very happy with both machines. The other, higher esteemed companies, may be a little bit better, but you pay so much for them. If you can afford it, great, if you can't, you can get almost as good a model from Brother. I have a Bernina 440 QE and never use it anymore since the Innovis does all it can and more.

I have been sewing professionally and for personal use for over 30 years now. What I have learned is while the sewing machine is a very important part of the designing/construction process, it is not the only thing needed. Other things are more so. Like your designing/sewing skills. I take mine very seriously. Plus I can, and have in the past, use all types of sewing machines when available. I use the domestic lock stitch sewing machine for home use. I prefer over the home one, and use whenever possible, the industrial lock stitch sewing machine. I also love using the overlock or serger sewing machine, both home and industrial versions.

But the sewing machines I prefer in either case is the simplest mechanical ones. With fewest stitches offered (generally only zig zag stitches)-more emphasis on stitch formation and proven durability/reliability rather than being "in" or overly coveted by others. My past and present sewing machines are the simple basic models of Kenmore, Janome, or the Juki industrial sewing machines.

Okay! Well today was an awesome day! While looking through a really messy and old sewing shop, I spotted a used Bernina Record 730 on top of a shelf! The dealer gave me $280 for it and I immediately took it. I hope it was a good deal! (I think it was) The Bernina was in pretty good shape and I also tested it and all of the stitches worked including the decorative ones! But when I got home, I wiped it down to get all the grime off and I think I messed with the dials because now the decorative stitches are only going straight. But this can be fixed by turning one of the dials but I just don't know which one!! I looked over the manual many times but can't find any hints. So does anyone own this model that can help me? Thanks!!

congrats on your machine! since you just bought it...why not just walk it back into the shop and ask for help. i'm willing to bet you get it!

can't help you at all though, i'm a viking girl myself (with a deep and abiding love for my 1916 singer treadle and my 1937 singer featherweight...)

Keep your eye out for a used machine...you may have to wait awhile, but you should be able to find one within your budget. I know someone that just got a used Bernina 1260 for $500.00.

Check ebay out. I bought my brand new Janome 3050 DC on ebay. It usually sells for 799.00 I got it for 400.00, shipped from the warehouse, no taxes and no shipping. I also have a Bernina, I think they are the best. They are expensive, but well worth it. A year before I knew I was going to retire, I bought mine. That was 3 1/2 years ago, and I am so glad I did. Best machine I ever had!!!

Yes, you got a great machine. I have my original Bernina Record 830 from the early 70s and it is wonderful. Click on this link for the Vintage Sewing Machine Shop and ask your question. Everyone on here owns vintage machines and several have the wonderful older Berninas, plus these people can guide you with all sorts of resources.

http://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage...43881-906.html

You know it working correctly when you purchased it, so you just need to learn how to fix it again. And, Congratulations. It was smart to buy used. Now you'll have $$ to get other things you will need in your sewing career. Bless you. :)

You can always upgrade to a Bernina. Start with something you can afford first. I don't know much about the different machines, but I believe in going to dealers and buying used machines. Think getting one that has lots of feet and all the extras. It is well worth it in the long run. You have lots of time to buy an expensive machine. I first used my mom's featherweight from when I was a teen until I was older. Then I started on a Viking which my daughter uses now. I used it for 14 years and it was the cheapest Viking they made at the time and I loved it. My daughter now loves it. I then went to a Viking Quilt Designer for 18 years before I bought a Bernina. So I had to go thru all the hoops to make it to a Bernina. And I loved all my machines along the way.

I have several Brothers and a Viking Sapphire. Love them all. No repairs on any of them so far.

Bernina is just to expensive for me and I dont understand why they cost so much.

Congratulations on your first Bernina.

mltquilt