There are so many choices it can be confussing. And when we get into the showroom and don't know what we want, we can fall for the sales pitch. So first, define exactly what she wants. And what features she wants. Then look them up on the internet to see which models will fill those "wants".

I'm in the market for a machine and definitely want the button hole stitch. Finally had to ask the dealer for the specifics between 2 models, that made the difference.

So first define her needs. Then decide the priority of those needs and how much each is worth: $25 or $250 or $2500 to get a specific function.

A competent local rep is very important. I'm talking training, trouble shooting and service, not salesman persuasive.

I teach classes at a local Bernina dealer. I don't pretend to be able to trouble shoot (my function is to teach quilting). The store has employees who step in whenever someone is having trouble with their machine. The student gets hands on help with their individual machine (even non-Bernina if they can) and is more equiped to trouble shoot for themselves.

Besides a Bernina, I also have a Brother se1500 I bought in Sacramento,that has been great for about 15 yrs. Years went by with several dealers opening and closing. Took it in for service and got a promise of 1 wk, which he denied saying he never promises (that's a hint of his reliability). Two months later it came back with an advertising 4x4" sticker on the back-how pretensious. No way was I advertising for that store. Had to really work to get that sticker off. That dealer folded-wonder why? Anyway, check out the dealer.

Ask local quilters what they have and why. This takes time, not like buying a pair of pants. You get 1 machine but you buy several pants each year. Even going on a retreat with local quilters and check out their machines, it's very enlightening.

Good luck and have fun.

I just did a demo on the Janome 9900, nice mid range machine that does both. I ended up buying the 8200 as a replacement for my 6600. My friend traded her 11000 and her 6600 for a 12000. Not that she regrets having the dream machine 12000 but she can only do one thing at a time.

If I did embroidery, which I do not, I personally would buy two separate machines.

First figure out her budget, then take her to see every brand and sew on them. Every machine is different and each person likes different features. I always start with my "favorite" brand but then try the others. Then I know my
$ is being well spent.

Brother is the most user friendly love mine, my first was a TOL but easy to use outside the box

I think it is essential to NOT get one that only has a 4" hoop. I also think I would forego getting a machine altogether unless I could get larger hoops. Will be frustrating in no time. I have the Elissimo Plus. I originally bought thevEllure Plus and quickly upgraded.

I have a Janome and I just love it.

I love the Brother ones. I have three of them

Brothers is my brand. I have the Quattro and love it! Wouldn't trade it got anything. I work it hard and never have a problem. I do everything on it. So easy to use. You can't go wrong with a Brothers.

I have a Excellence 740 Elna, made by Janome for sewingf and quilting and I have a Designer Diamond for my embroidery, it sews too but only use it for embroidery. It was a high end machine and also the Janome 11000 or 12000 is a great combo machine. I would also make sure to buy it from a local shop that gives free lessons. Both of mine has free hands on lession for the life of my machines.

My viking diamond excels at everything she does! I love this machine!