This machine is listed as reg. $499.99 on sale for $199.99. Do any of you know if this is a good machine for regular piecing and quilting? My other option is the Kenmore model 19110 or 16231. My DSIL works at Sears and can get it with her discount and she lives in a tax free state. Here are the stats on the Singer: Singer® Athena 2009 Electronic Sewing Machine
Style No. 2009 $199.99 each
Compare at $499.99
The Singer® Athena 2009 takes the work out of sewing. Athena 2009 was specially designed to make threading the needle and bobbin a breeze with the SwiftSmart threading system. It combines digital threading with one-touch needle threader. Also, features a drop and sew bobbin system, Singer-exclusive buttonhole underplate, 30 stitch patterns, and extension tab. Making the tedious tasks you have to do every time you sew--simple. Now you can enjoy the part you love most--creativity.

I bought the Kenmore 19110 recently, and love it. It is the exact same machine as the Janome DC 2010, just different outside case.

Does it come with 1/4" foot & walking foot. If not, can you use ones you already have on this machine.

I don't know if you've got a Tuesday Morning in your area, but I received their flyer today and they're selling that exact machine for the same $199.00 price. I'm not trying to lean you in any direction, but if you're focusing on this machine because of your SIL and the price, well...you can get it locally, for the same price and is it really a big steal if others are offering it for the same amount? I dunno, something to ponder...

I don't have the 1/4" nor walking foot so I'm not losing anything. LOL

I wouldn't buy a new Singer. Sadly the company is no longer the original and I've heard many unhappy owners. I'd go with the Kenmore.

The new Singers are not up to par IMHO. I used to sell them and couldn't believe how noisy they are. My antique Singers on the other hand are wonderful.

I had a Kenmore sewing machine for 25 years, and it worked great. I never had to do anything to it. Don'/t know about the new models, but the old ones were great. I gave it to a young mother, and she is still using it, by now it is at least 40 years old!!

Without even looking at the individual machines, I would buy a new Kenmore instead of a new Singer.

I'm on my second Kenmore since 1977 (this one is maybe 8-10 years old)and I do like them.
Just started quilting, so I bought a walking foot, a 1/4 inch foot, and a FMQ foot.
I machine quilted the 66x80 quilt I am working on now, and used several of the decorative stitches-- it was a breeze. (Especially after I found a you-tube video about installing the walking foot! Mine had NO instructions!)

Part of me would like a "real" quilting machine (whatever that is!) but this Kenmore seems to be doing the job well right now...