Gosh, I sure hope that's not true. I just bought a brand new 350PE last year & was also considering the 215 & was told it was just the cases that were plastic by my dealer. The guy who cleans/services it also said it's all metal parts.

... looking for YouTube video of how to take apart my machine now to make sure it has all metal insides. *fingers crossed*

It's not true. I've seen too many Bernina guts.

Thanks, onebyone. I know the 210 is definitely all metal insides because I've seen that one taken apart (plus, that's the machine that Leah Day pieces with). I was momentarily a bit panicky because I specifically said I only wanted all metal parts like my vintage Singer & was worried my dealer maybe wasn't very knowledgeable. My 350 certainly does sew like an all-metal parts machine -- beautiful, perfect stitches every single time.

Well we did pretty good. She bought a used (3 months) Juki Tl 2000 Straight stitch machine. Costs about $600 but included lessons and 3 year warranty. Doesn't have fancy stitches but does have a large throat space for quilting. Added bonus she did her first quilt on my Brother 1500 which is a very similar machine. She knows how to work it.

Welcome from NE Ohio. I agree with the Brother machines being a good buy for that money.

Thumbelina
http://www.quiltingboard.com/images/...ser-online.pngWell it was the Juki not the Brother. I have the brother version and love it. The Juki is a bit more expensive usually and my repair guy tells me its better made. So I'm happy for my friend.

That's great! How exciting to be part of her new hobby. I'm sure she appreciates all your knowledge and expertise that she can trust.

I have two machines by Janome....it gets my vote,

Check out AllBrands.com for machines in that price range. They really stand behind their machines and last time I bought from there, I had it in hand in 3 days!! I bought a refurbished machine at a really good price & it's still going strong six yrs later! I use it for my spare as I saved up & bought an Innov'is 2000 so I could do bigger quilts. Both of mine are Brothers. Great machines!!

Hands down best machine for the money is the Janome....lots of "quilting friendly" machines to choose from. Brubakerssewing.com, Ken's sewing, Allbrands......get a price, then see if your local shop will match, less tax. I trust all of them...best customer service from Brubakers. Ask for Amy.
Diana in Tx