I just had the same thought about wanting a light weight sewing machine last week. so on my day off I went to the store where I had brought my Janome 9000. i asked if they had a second hand light weight sewing machine. I end up with janome gold 2 for $100.00. It works beautiful. only weights 12 lbs. It came with extra feet and a nice bag. I can also use the extra feet from my larger machine. I am very happy with this light weight machine. I also hope to teach my grand daughter on the machine in several years.

I had bought the Janome Jem, wow, it is nice to take on retreats and such! So light to carry, great! However, if I had to do it again I would consider buying an old 301. Actually, I am in the process of doing that too! Just asked yourself what is it you want from the machine besides being light weight. Do you need fancy stitches? I have a friend that has the Janome Magnolia, now that is a very nice machine too! Oh my!

I have Jem Gold - cost about $300 with carrying case and attachments; Ladyjanedoe paid $200 thru Amazon, I see.
My Jem Platinum was about $400
Both are great for workshops etc.
I also have a Kenmore bleu for $200

I have the original Janome gem and love it. The newer models have a few features that I would love on mine like the needle up/down feature, the needle threader. It weighs 13 lbs and will easily tuck into a suitcase when traveling! Try ebay there are dealers on there that sell brand new at very reasonable prices. Also, it is the same machine as the Hello Kitty machine which is only around $100 on ebay

The Janome Gems are super....I have the Platinum and love it.

Thank you for the responses. I will check ebay & some online dealers. I would like to support my local shop unless I find that their price is completely out of line. I have never heard of the Hello Kitty model.

I have the Janome that is one step up from the Gem and LOVE it. It is only a bit heavier but has the auto thread cutter, etc. so I went for it. I really like it. Good luck!