http://www.generations-quilt-pattern...e-reviews.html This has some reviews on it that may help.

I bought, 7 years ago, an Elna 7200 for £900/$1400 and although it has been, and still is a fabulous machine, I would never buy a modern one again. I prefer the stability, durability and dependability of the older machines. Although your wife's first quilt was made from Jeans/Denim I doubt that she will be making heaps more so what you need to do is to go for a good all-rounder machine for quilting.

All makes of machines up to the late 70's were manufactured to a very high standard, were made from metal with a minimum of plastic bits n pieces.

I did a quick search for you and found this company "Allbrands.com" and spotted what looks like a fantastic buy, this Refurbished commercial grade Singer http://www.allbrands.com/categories/...rade-freearm-s for only $299!!!!!!!!!!! When you read the spec. it looks as tho' it would sew through anything especially with that extra powered motor.

This is another link for the same machine, which gives you more information and $10 less: http://www.sewingmachinesplus.com/singer-590fs.php

Do let us know what you decide on.

lso, the Janome machines are excellent. You could always get her a gift card to a sewing machine store.
Dena

As much as you would like to surprise your wife, this is a BIG decision and it would be best if you took her to some quilting shops to see what is available. A gently used machine might be the answer but you won't know until you do some searching. Also, don't look only for a heavy duty machine just for one quilt made from jeans - her future quilts may be made from quilting cotton.

I have a Juki , the cost is about $800. It's on a Grace Quilting frame but you don't have to have a frame to use it. My sister has an older model and she uses it for regular straight stitching and quilting small things, she also has a long arm but I like to quilt on my Grace frame with my Juki better than on hers. It only straight stitches. You are a good husband !

The Janome 6300 is a stripped-down version of the 6500/6600 that so many quilters love. It has fewer stitches but still offers the same metal housing, automatic thread-cutter, extra high lift, variable needle positions, speed control, free-motions easily and has a 9" harp. The Juki 600 has more stitches but there are fewer dealers to service them. Both are $1000.

This would be my choice too. I love my 6600. If she gets into free motion quilting it is great for that also. It does so many things she may what in the future.

I have a Babylock and a Juki. I agree, my Juki has sewn anything I placed under it.

You are a kind and thoughtful hubby!! I agree with all the info given. Will your wife do sewing besides quilting? That can make a big difference in which machine works best for her. I have seen some great high end machines with only a few hours on them for a very good price. Good luck on your quest!!

Best to buy a machine with 9"-11" throat, with a walking foot or IDT, a quarter inch foot and a quilting foot for free machine quilting. The best I have found in your price range is the Brother Nouvelle 1500s. It is made by Juki and is called PQS 1500 and a number of other names. It is completely manual and strong and fast. Here is some info:
http://www.brother-usa.com/homesewin...S#.UCt_Az1mSD8

I have the Juki TL-98Q which is the model before the TL 2010. I love this machine!!!!!! Straight stitch only but sews through anything I have tried. I bought mine through Allbrands. I have quilted a queen size quilt on it.