Good Starter Machine?
 

I am looking for a good starter machine for a college student.

Any suggestion?????

Look for a used machine that may have a bit more than the basic models you can buy.
I love my Janome.

Depending on what type of sewing the student wants to do, I'd probably look at a used higher end machine from a service/repair shop that can be had for the right price - whatever that may be for you/them. Or check on Craigslist if you feel confident enough to check out a machine on your own. This way you're not investing lots of $$ on something that may not be used too much.

I just bought a cheap Brother 2600 lightweight machine for classes. It was $80 and it does alot for the price.
Being in Collage I would consider a light weight machine.
Of course my Viking computer machine is my favorite but is heavy and not good for moving around.

Agree with the other two posters about a good used machine from a dealer. Folks bring in their machines usually because they are upgrading to a newer model. The dealer gives the machines a good going over, cleaning and any repairs that are necessary, and most will offer a limited warranty with the machine as well (usually just 30 - 90 days).

I agree with the others about going to dealers bc I traded up and I know who got my first Bernina did good. Good Luck. I took my singer stylist with me to college. good memories. Teresa

ditto to the above.

Consider whether this is a beginning sewer/quilter? or one who has sewn before, but never owned one.
What is a suitable "starter machine" for one, would not be appropriate for the other.

Don't let the price lure you ... a cheap new one, may not have the quality you could get in purchasing a used one from a dealer or elsewhere. For me, I'd deal with a dealer for a little more security in how I spend my money ... though I'm biased as I have an incredible dealer nearby and I know that is not the case for all.

I would buy a Janome Jem Platinum for a beginner sewer. It is a quality machine that will last to be her back up machine later on.

I have to give my support for a basic Brother. I sew on three of them, one at home, one at each of my sons' houses. They are not persnickety and make a nice stitch. I also have some older vintage machines which I like, but my Brother is my "go to" machine.

Any of the lower end brothers would be great. I got my start on the lower end brothers and still use mine and love them. I have a higher end babylock, but it took me quite a few years to be comfortable with machines before I got her, and she is heavy, not easy to cart around like the lower end brothers that go with me to classes, and you can do everthing on them.