Dolphyngyrl-
I have taken the whole machine apart, as I thought the issue might have been lint too. I also switched to a polyester thread, instead of the cotton one I was using, and I was able to get it to sew again. I'm still looking into a new machine though, since I enjoy FMQing and this machine just can't handle it.

I just bought a Sapphire 835 by Viking for $995. I really like it and it has the longer throat and many other features. There is also the Tribute 140 that was $1295. It had more fancy stitches, but I never seem to use those. You need to shop around bargains are out there. Personally Viking is my machine of choice. I have had 3 and never had problems with them. I dumped a Brother and a Bernina because of thread problems.

I've tried a lot of different sewing machines and thought I was no good at FMQ. And I finally got *the* right machine. Nothing wrong with the sewing machines I was using... they are perfectly fine for sewing, but not quilting!

I just purchased a Juki F600 and it sews beautifully. I haven't tried FMQing on it yet but it does have a large harp and also has 250 decorative stitches. So far I love it and it was $899 at Ed Raichert in Arizona. I also have the TL2010 but it's a straight stitch only machine. It does beautiful FMQing and was also $899. It depends what you want to use it for. I've never had a Juki but would recommend it highly. I purchased the F600 because I really like incorporating some decorative stitches on bags and some of my quilts. Good luck in your search!

All I can say is I bought a Bernina 440 because of the stitch regulator. I thought it would be wonderful. I was very dissapointed. Once you practice FMQ and get a little experience, the stitch regulator gets in the way. In fact, I don't even use my Bernina anymore. I purchased a Brother - Laura Ashley Edition a few years ago and thorougly enjoy using this machine. However, you have to find out what works best for yourself. Look around and test as many models as you can!

Happy hunting.

I just got my first "big girl" sewing machine, a Janome 6600 and I am seriously in love with this machine. I am finishing years old UFO's left and right! I dream about it! It cost me a bit more than your budget but if you can find one "gently used" or certified used from a local dealer I totally recommend it. The Acufeed system is just marvelous, I'm suddenly a MUCH better quilter! And the larger harp or throat space is a huge benefit too.

I just bought a Janome 6600 and it should fit in your budget. Mine was $1300 ~ I did get a 5% discount for not using a credit/debit card. Loving this machine .... coming from a 43 yr. old Bernina Record 730 (which I also loved for as many years as I had it ~ and I still have it). But the features on the 6600 are awesome.
Hope you get to *test drive* this one :)

jody