Only had the binding and quilting the edges left to do... then my 21 year old White sewing machine made a few clunking noises and seized up with the needle stuck down in the fabric. It took some time and near panic to get it out. After taking the machine panels off, we found that one of the plastic gears (Plastic gears!) had too many teeth worn down and it could no longer engage the bobbin case.

It was only a $99 machine anyway and after years of sewing children's clothes, crafts, and even my daughter's prom gown, it owed me nothing.
The silver lining? DH told me to buy a new one, and to get a good one this time without plastic gears! Yahoo! So i've been reading all the topics here having to do with which features and machines are most appreciated. Got a lot of good advice from you all and I want to say thanks to all those who share such great stuff!

You have my deepest sympathies!

Do you feel like you've lost a trusted friend? I felt that way when my Viking gave up the ghost 6 years ago. I get along with my Bernina, but it doesn't stitch as nicely as that machine.

I hate it when a machine, car, dishwasher, whatever dies!!!!
Hope you have a backup.

You got that right! I feel sentimentally sad and am thinking of all the memories made together. I don't want to discard her even though she doesn't work anymore. No back up machine though... but luckily I know of a very good sewing machine dealer in our area.

I know that they have a life and what a wonderful life it shared. Mine was the first Christmas present from my new born son back 34 years ago. I had to let her go also. I feel your pain. Look forward to the next, there is so many new features, it is amazing!

Sorry about your machine :( , But look on the bright side NEW MACHINE :)

RIP dear departed. Well hello to your new friend!

So Sorry for your lose! But HAPPY SHOPPING for the new one!!!

A moment of silence for your faithful friend.