Agree the 2212 is a solid machine. At the $200 price-point, there's also the Janome Jem Gold which is 3/4 sized and lots of people like that one...There are several mechanical Elnas that are similar to the Janomes but do have adjustable presser foot pressure. Lots of people like the Brother machine Dolphyngirl mentioned (SQ9050) and the Brothers tend to have more stitches than Elna/Janome. At around $400, Viking makes HQ100 and Janome has the Platinum 720 or 760 at $500. I like Janome brand..have and use 2 of them so I bought the My Style 100 for compatibility's sake. It's basic but does have drop-feed, adjustable width on ZZ and adjustable length w/ top handle. Has good power and slightly bigger than the Jem types. Really any machine you like that you are comfortable carrying works for classes. I see ppl w/ very high-end machines, some with very old vintage of all types, a few FW's, newish Singers and lots of mid-line Janomes. Things to consider: if your must-haves include variable needle position..many at $300 and under don't have that..as well many don't have adjustable pressure, adjustable width/length, no auto thread-cutters or needle up/down or a blanket stitch.. so if those things are important, you will probably spend more. I just wanted a small, light, simple, durable and reasonably quiet machine w/ a handle and a drop-in bobbin bc i have features on other machines i technically could take out but prefer not to.

My budget will allow up to $300 but would like to stay $200 or less. That is what me thinks I can get more features on a used machine than a new one. I have Baby Lock machines and would love to have a Baby Lock or Brother.

Thanks for the post. I have been looking too for a lightweight DSM. Both of my are older Bernina and they are too heavy for me to lift and transport to the church sewing group.

You sound like me. I wanted to spend $200 or less but thought I would go up to $300. I ended up getting a Janome Magnolia. I have only taken it with me 2 times, but so far so good

I love my Janome Jem Platiinum. Never gives me problem. Weighs about 11#. God luck on your search

I just purchased a Brother at Costco - for $134.99, to take on a retreat. I went to Office Max and found a roller bag it fit in. Carried it nicely on the airplane. Only weights 9.2 pounds. It sewed like a charm. Check it out - I think they are only on sale until the end of November. Good luck and let us know what you end up with.

I have the Brother SQ9000. Probably weighs the same as Dolphyngyrl's. It is a wonderful machine, and mine was only $199 at Walmart.

The little Brothers from WalMart is a nice lightweight machine and not expensive. If you have the money, I love my little Featherweight for classes. Janome also has a small lightweight machine. Good luck.

I'm with Leaha
Or one of those WalMart smaller machine?

If your budget allows, the Pfaff Passport 2.0. It includes the IBT (built-in-walking foot).