Originally Posted by memere9
I have always had a foot pedal and don't mind that. I don't care to embroider just want more stitches and I do like the small machine because I camp and move around a lot
thanks for your help about searching other blogs
Cathy - The other questions you next need to answer are size and price (you already answered the Embroidery question). If you travel a lot, you may want to stay with a smaller lighter machine. You could also keep the new machine at home and travel with your Jem??
As to specific machines. - here is my 2 cents worth. All the major manufacturers produce good machines. Each brand has it's own thing going for it. Each brand has machines that span the sewing levels. Also, every sewer has their favorite machine. The machine needs to work for you.
I had a Babylock Ellagio that I loved and sold to purchase a used Pfaff 2170 (Embroidery). I Also had an OLD Viking 6370 which I gave to DD and bought a used Pfaff 2054. I currently love my Pfaffs because of the IDT which is an even feed system which eliminates the need for a walking foot. All of these machines are large and heavy.
I just purchased a Brother cs600i for classes/travel. Not a bad little machine - works just fine and is only 12 lbs. Would not want to depend on it to do all my piecing (it has only 2 needle positions) and the throat is much too small for Stitch in the Ditch on anything larger than a placemat (in my opinion :) )
I sold Vikings for a while - also excellent machines - some I thought were better than others but for the most part nice machines.
I would suggest you choose a price and a weight and go play with new ones in your area - then look at used as well. Good Luck