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I am looking at getting a new machine, last before I retire and get paid for. I want something with large throat area and yet a workhorse for FMQ and also SID so ay suggestions would be great and I will start my research. No long arm info please as that is forever out of our low income budget.
Thanks

What is your budget? That is the first step in narrowing down the choices.

I would reccommend a Juki I have one(98p) it is a dream to use and a real work horse, it is not computerised so less togp wrong with it

I have been looking at juki industrial machines. They have a long throat space, great straight stitch, on some models even a zig zag, and usually come with the sturdy table for less than $1000. I know a professional art quilter that uses one in her studio for free motion quilting and piecing.

Prism99, I would like to keep it under $1500

This right aways came to my mind.

My Janome 6600P has been fantastic. Nine inch throat space and many nice features. I paid $1,500.

I would first start a list of what option you want on this new machine. Then if possible, go to a larger quilt show where many dealers will be there and try as many DSM on for size. They are a lot like a car, you got to get out and test drive them. Have FUN while doing it!!

What about a Bailey sit down 15 inch or 17 inch throat, you can look up Bailey on the web... I was thinking of getting one as I have no room for a LAQ.. they run around 2000.oo I think..there is a forum on yahoo groups that have a lot of info on this machine..

For plain and simple, look at the Brother 1500. It is a straight stitch only machine that will be much less than your budget. It does piecing, FMQ and SID well. If it works for you, you would have left over money for fabric. :D