I have a featherweight that I take to classes. Only does a straight stitch, but most classes only need straight stitching.
My husband said,"If you can't carry your machine down the flight of stairs and put it in the car, you don't need to be going to classes. Not very supportive!

Elna has brought back the Lotus. I had one years ago, its no bigger than a toaster. Looks like its updated now, but still just as small and light. Perhaps that's the answer!

I have a 10# Brother that I take to classes. Got it from Wal*Mart. Soon, I'll have to be taking my Bernina 820 in. My husband will put it in the car for me; and the women at the shop help me get it out. After it's out, I can wheel it in.

Buy a light weight machine for classes. My only machine a little Brother RunWay model and it sews like a dream and is lightweight and easy to carry and lift on and off tables. It also doesn't take up a lot of room.

I had this problem years ago when I gave lessons in a church fellowship hall. There was no one around and we helped each other but I recommended to buy a janome which is smaller and light to carry and also to get the carrier that they use to use on airplane carry ons. Everyone does not have the money to go taxi or hire some one to help carry your machine. I had 22 in my class and we never had any problems. quilt for fun Grandma G

I also have trouble lifting heavy items and have a Gem for classes and sew ins. Sometimes I put it into a cloth tote and have another tote filled with scissors, threads, etc.

I bought a machine at a garage sale and leave it where I take classes and our quilting group meet.

If you can wrestle a board, weight it would need to be to not buckle you don't need it anyway.

http://www.professionalcarts.com/catalog.asp?id=6 I googled collapsible gurneys and came up with a bunch. Look through and let us know what they cost. This sounds like a perfect way for someone that needs a helping hand but can't find one or feels like they are imposing (you are not) doesn't have a hubby,or just wants to do themselves.

That's exactly why I bought one as well! My Janome 6600 was just to heavy for me to lift. I had major surgery 4 months ago and for the first couple of months I could even lift the 3160, I was limited to no more than 5 lbs. My quilting buddies were wonderful helping me! They even came to the house to pick me up so I could go to friendship group meetings!