Sewing machines - which one would you choose?
 

My eyesight is not as good as it once was. With that in mind I have been looking at the new machines with the extra lighting. So far the Brother and Baby Lock machines seem to have adequate lighting on the DreamWeaver and Crescendo models. I have not looked too much at other brands. What are your thoughts on machines with the better lighting?

Currently I use two ott lights around my machine but they cast shadows.

I have a Brother Quattro, the lighting is amazing. The "runway" lighting is really bright and covers the entire sewing area. I do have a standing floor lamp next to the sewing table with a true color bulb (similar to the Ott light, not a fan of the "color" Ott light throws), but only use it for late-night sewing (last night, last minute hem for my niece). Brother does a fantastic job with their machines. So user friendly. I currently have 3 Brother embroidery machines and a Baby Lock. Have used Brother for over 20 years. Absolutely would recommend the brand.

As I have gotten older I struggle to see with the poor lighting on the machines. I really love my Pfaff and don't want a new machine. I purchased a Jansjo LED light ( just 9.99) from Ikea. It has a weighted base and a a goose neck so you can point it where you need the light. Love it and now several of the guild ladies have bought the same light!! One down side - you can not purchase it online - it is only in the store. I place mine behind my machine and position the led light so it illuminates the presser foot. The added benefit is that when I need to rip out stitched (OH - but we all have to do that sometimes - lol). it can be easily moved.

My BabyLock Elegante has a great light and I supplement it with a stick-on LED light I got from my LQS. Works well and I can use additional 'bases' for my other machines, so the extra light goes to whatever machine I'm working on.

If lighting is the *only* issue, you might want to install LED lights on your existing machine. I will link a Youtube video that shows an inexpensive DIY method, but you can also purchase specific LED lighting for sewing machines where you just plug and go.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QNRoI...664A7&index=12

I have a Baby Lock Crescendo the lighting is really good on the machine. I believe they call it stadium lighting, bought one of those overhead lamps with a magnifying glass at Harbor Freight I can bring it right over my machine.