I absolutely LOVE my Janome Jem 720 - There is a 760 -which has more stitches. Mine came with a little table, 1/4" foot and a walking foot. It has needle up /down button and a speed slider control button. You can also get a neat little trolley case for it. This machine, in my mind is great - a good little workhorse, and I would recommend it and several friends have been out and bought one - having had a sample run on mine !!

I have an elcheapo I bought a Big Lots. Works fine for piecing.

I have a basic mechanical Brother, very cheap, and it does everything, including FMQ. I also have a Featherweight which is so cute and has such a nice stitch.

I love my Janome Jem Platinum 720. It weighs 12 pounds and can be carried quite easily with the built in handle. It can do more than straight or zigzag stitches, has a needle up/down position,start/stop button, reverse button. Best of all, I don't have to use a foot pedal (helps prevent back problems since your foot isn't stretched away from your body).

Featherweight for sure, just got one from EBay, great price, after setting my limit and loosing several, got one within my price range, all the bells and whistles for $259 (includes shipping) so happy!

Has anyone have an Elna Grasshopper? They are real lightweight but the case is heavy as lead. Boy do they run quiet and smooth!

Has anyone tried the Elna Lotus or Stella. They are from the 70's and everything is contained in one neat package. They are going for higher and higher prices on Ebay. Not quite as heavy as a Featherweight and some have a zig-zag feature. { I also have several featherweights (221 and a 222).} The Lotus is cute, but more modern. lol

I have a cheap brother, love it, sews great

I love the janome jem also, however, depending on your budget I think maybe the vintage 301 Singer might be a person's best buy! I am buying two of them this week :)

Way to go! Would love to see the pictures