Which Machine to choose (grad prezzie)??
 

I have a daughter who wants to start sewing and has asked for a sewing machine as a present for her graduation (Bachelor's degree, she's 23).

I am thinking something dependable and versatile around $1000 or less. I am a fan of Bernina's but there are no older used ones in my area just now. I have an Artista 170 and love it!

I am thinking a Janome?
https://www.amazon.ca/Janome-3160QDC...st_sto_dp&th=1


Advice, opinions, user reviews welcomed.

Love my Janome 6600 Professional

I got a new Bernina under $1000 but it was on sale. It was a little "red machine" (215) I think is the number. It is a basic machine that has needle up/down two speeds, 11 stitches and the ability to adjust the stitches. I actually got it because it is smaller machine and light enough to take to classes. I think it would make a good beginner machine and also be sturdy enough to last for quite a while and later serve as a travel machine. Check it out. It is not a bernette....it is a real Bernina. It also came the little table that attaches to the free arm
oh...and the sales person told me it had a better motor than the Janome's they also sell in that price range.

I would recommend looking at what brands are available where she will be living so she can get service. Then maybe visiting the shops there so she can try them herself.

Sewing machines are very personal. Just like cars and brands of jeans. Some you hit it off with, others are frustrating, and everyone is different. Let her try several and see which "feel" more intuitive to operate. The more approachable/intuitive one's first machine is, the more likely you are to stick with the hobby.

The Bernina 335 is right at $1000 and is a great little machine. I wish you could find a used Bernina.

After I posted about the 215, I went to the website for Bernina and saw the 335, It does look like a neat machine that does a bit more than the 215. It looks interesting.

JANOME IS A GREAT CHOICE. I have a "family" of them. I bought the 3160 for class Machine. Great machine for the money.
If your daughter is just learning, you may want to arrange for basic sewing classes...if you are not close by. The 3160 is easy to transport and travel with. If you are thinking about buying from Amazon, contact a dealer Close to your daughter and see if they will match the Amazon price for you. That way she would have a place to go and get free instruction on her machine.. Best regards.

Thankyou all for the insights. I do not think there is a single dealer in her area, of any brand, but I have a great machine tech where I live so in a pinch we can have any servicing done here (he sometimes has good used machines in but not right now). There is a nice quilt shop near her that offers sewing classes (on Berninas!), so she plans to connect with them and take a few of their courses.

Still ruminating!

You might also check out the Eversewn line.

I have no personal experience with them, but I've heard good things and they are comparatively inexpensive.

My "newest" machine was purchased in 1984 or 1985 - and I'm it's second owner, so I have little information about new models of machines.

I am also considering the Janome HD1000, if anyone can give a personal review on life with that model!