Originally Posted by
ann31039
look for the older kenmores. they are all metal and solid. they sew very well, you can get those with "fancy" stitches built in or one with cams. very quiet compared to my inexpensive brother. strong motor. Can often be found in thrift stores for around 40 dollars. My mothers was bought new in 1973 and is still sewing strong. You don't need a new computerized fancy machine to do great work. The older machines do great and since they are all metal and don't have a computer, they rarely truly "break".
YES YES YES - and older European machines and 50 year old Singers. If 95% of what you sew is straight stitch get an old black sewing machine - then use your modern machine for the fancy junk or just go hire it out on the rare occasion you need something.