New sewing machine
 

I'm thinking about buying a new sewing machine and looking for suggestions. I don't want to pay the price of a used car, so $2,000 would probably be my top price. I have 2 kenmores that I love, but the newest one is 12 years old and I'm interested in any new features that are now available. I know I can't get a better kenmore, mine was top of the line 12 years ago, but I want to be able to learn how to use it, is there one that is similar? Also, I don't need embroidery, my Brother machine is only 2 years old.

I think Janome is like the Kenmore. Janome, Brother, and the new Eversewn have very nice mid priced machines.

i have this one and just love it! it has a lot of features for quilting http://www.sewvacdirect.com/juki-exc...RoCPo0QAvD_BwE

Before you buy, you should know what you want. A bigger throat? Built-in alphabet fonts? Make a list and match that to machines. Then test drive them. If you want to know who really made your Kenmore, look here:

https://www.quiltingboard.com/vintag...n-t259833.html

I wanted a built-in walking food (IDT on my Pfaff), as well as a larger harp space. I looked seriously at the Bernina but due to price, I purchased the Pfaff Quilt Expressions 4.2. I don't think it's really the quality of the Bernina, but has many features that fit me, and the price was right. Good luck with your purchase!

I just looked at mine and they're 385 models by Janome, good to know, I'll look at those first! :)

You already have an embroidery machine you are happy with. Does that 12 year old Kenmore have the needle up or down when you stop feature?. If it does, sounds to me like you already have what is ideal. If quilting is your focus, perhaps spend that money on one of the special cutters, like accuquilt. Does your current machine have enough harp space for large projects? Have you taken a drive with any of the Baby Lock machines?

My first suggestion - as others have mentioned - make a list of your needs vs wants. I am the spreadsheet queen so when I was machine shopping years ago, did this and made room for the various machines/models so I could just do x or check marks for those features. I ended up with Viking Husquarvana and am extremely happy. Absolutely love the auto-tension feature. Never have to fiddle with that setting regardless of what I am sewing!

There were certain things I wanted when I went machine shopping: needle up/down, thread cutter, auto needle threader and a larger throat. I should have also gone for an even feed foot.
Be sure the machine has the ability to FMQ and take a ruler foot, if you are interested in that.
An extension table is a must if you aren't planning to have a built in table made for it.
I have the Singer S18 (built by Janome, 6500) and love it. My Mom has a Janome 8900 and I love that one, too.
Test drive a bunch a your dealers and be sure you are comfortable with the dealer and know you are going to get great service from them in the event you need help.

Watson

Getting a new machine is exciting but it can be similar to purchasing a car...decisions, decisions. There has been a lot of good advice...good luck.