I have my 30 year old Kenmore yet...still going strong and I have a FW that I take to classes too...Love machines

I got a great find at a yard sale, it ended up costing me $45.
to get cleaned up and the electic cord, and stuff replaced,
It only sews straight stitch, and it is great for just taking
for classes, I know it is hardy and I don't have to worry
about my good one getting banged around transporting.
I also have a $7.00 iron that I haul around for classes,
it's great, I like it better than my good one. Don't worry,
Quilter's aren't sewing machine snobs.

This probably won't help you much, but I tend to like the older, non-computerized machines. I still have my over 30-year-old Kenmore. I got a wonderful treadle last summer, which sews beautifully. My sister bought me a new Brother last year, too. I just bought a vintage mid-arm machine. When I see what they can make, I feel like a queen.

If you're happy with your machine, that's all that counts. I have a Brother SQ 9000. I got it for taking to classes. It only weighs 10 lbs. I have a bad back. Have a Bernina 930 at home but it's not easily portable - too heavy among other things. Don't let those other quilters intimidate you. You'll have beautiful quilts without putting out nearly the money.

I feel if you are happy that is what matters. Your's is paid for and maybe those others in the class aren't...
Nothing wrong with a machine that meets your needs. Don't be embarassed, you have a nice machine.

I have a one and only machine and it is an Elna. I like it because it is light to carry or move. I had a Necchi I bought for $500 in 1957 and had it for 45 years, but it was so heavy you needed a fork lift to move it. I like my Elna and does everything that I am interested in plus a few extras that if I get up the nerve I will try.
Rita

I totally agree!

Well seeings how my "newest" machine is a Singer 403a that my Mom bought new in the 50's or 60's and my other machine is a Singer Featherweight...I guess you could say I don't really care too much for the newer ones do I? lol Might be fun to play on someone elses just to see what one is like, but as long as mine keep working I don't see myself buying one of the new fandangled ones.

My fancy Viking stays home when I go to a class. I slip a small antique Feather Weight into a tote bag and grab my supplies while the other ladies fight with huge wheeled suitcases - lol

My mother sew on a Brothers for years and they are a great machine...if it does what you want(mostly) good for you....you have more money left over to buy fabric.