Machine recommendations
 

I have a friend that wants a sewing machine. She wants a very simple portable machine. I told her to buy the Janome Jem, since I have another friend that has one and loves it.
Does anyone else have another recommendation? She has looked at the machines at Wal-Mart, but I am trying to talk her out of that since I believe they are not made very well and might break on her or be difficult to sew on for a beginner.
Thanks for any suggestions, Gina

Is there a dealer - any brand - near to you/her that she might go look at their used machines? Usually a much better deal than a new cheapie machine. Or perhaps a vintage Singer from CL?

I suggest she visit a Bernina dealer and look at their lower end machines. Often they have trade ins that make them much more affordable. I have a 230 that cost less than $1000. Since there is a lot more plastic in it the weight is much less than my Artista 185. The only drawback to the smaller machines is that the harp space is also smaller which makes it hard to machine quilt anything larger than crib size. As a handquilter that isn't a problem for me. I do machine quilt at least 10 Linus size quilts a month and it would work for that. Purchasing a sewing machine from a dealer usually means that they also service and stand behind their machines.

The machines at WalMart are made by the manufacturer as those sold in the other stores. All depends on how you take care/maintain. They all have warranties. I've been out all morning and stopped at a pawn shop. Had a Singer 1507 for $30. But had no power cord or other accessories.:(

Brothers from Walmart seem to be very popular on this board with relatively few complaints. I have three different ones and they are easy to use and not fussy about thread

Walmart near me has a Brother for $49, that might be a good start. It looked pretty good though I just glanced at it on an endcap because I am not in the market for a machine.

I have a plain little Kenmore that sews well & there are lots of accessories & feet available for it. Sears probably has them on sale right now.

A cheaper machine would be my choice until she learns and figures out if she wants to sew or not. She can always upgrade later.

I have one of my machine picture's and details at a LQS listed 'for sale.' Of course, this store doesn't sell machines. One of my machines did sell this way.

A friend sold hers by word of mouth through one of my quilting groups.

Craig's List is another option.