nuttyhurricane

Like I said earlier. My brother 3500 was the only machine I used for 4 years. Yes, I purchased it a Walmart. I made many quilts, hemmed how many pairs of jeans, costumes, all sorts of things. Then it started braking needles left and right. Was bearly able to finish a small double wedding ring quilt for grandparents 70th anniversary. That is when I took it in for repairs and told too broken to even try and no parts for fixing it available. :-( I truely enjoyed using that machine it had everything I needed. I just don't want to replace my sewing machine every couple of years.K

madamekelly

Important info if you buy a used machine...You can now get most of the manuals for used machines free or at low cost online. I lost mine in a move, and the new one was free, I just had to print it. Never buy a machine for use, that you don't get to see run. Do your research. Some things are NOT fixable. Good Lock!

Nona

I have only bought 2 new machines in 60 years. The first was a Kenmore zig zag when I was a sophmore in college.
The second was a Pfaff 2040 ten years ago. It is the only electronic machine I have. Right now the part that covers the end of the machine won't stay attached. Of course, it is plastic. I haven't even tried to find a replacement part yet. Duct tape is curently holding it in place. I have seven other machines all purchased used. I agree with those who offered suggestions of gong to a sewing machine/vac dealer (NOT A QUILT SHOP) and look for a good used machine. The cost will be much better for the money. Unfortunately many of the newer machines have a lot of plastic in them. Ask the repair technetian which one he sees the most often..Then don't buy that model. My oldest machine that I use regularly is a 1936 model Pfaff. My mother sews on her 1953 model Pfaff that has all the fancy stiches you would ever need. It has only been in the shop one since 1953.

FQ Stash Queen

I know it's difficult to find. Not sure exactly what type of upgrade you are looking for, but in my book Janome is the bomb. I agree with the advice to check out the Kenmore made by Janome. They make a lot of brands that people are not even aware of.

morforles

Cost Co has the same machine, with the case and quilting table for $149.99! I use my Brother, same one that you are looking at, to take back and forth to quilting class. So far, it's been great!

FQ Stash Queen

Your location is in hiding? Costco is not available in many parts of the country, especially the south

G'ma Kay

Overstock.com has reconditioned machines at a fraction of the price. I bought my serger there and have had no problems, couldn't tell it wasn't brand new.

Sanhope

I bought the Brothers sewing/quilting machine last year at Walmart. Checked price everyday until it got to $99.00 from around 150.00. It has been a good machine and I love the quilt table attachment that give you more flat work space. It has several quilting feet attachments included. I did have to buy the one I use the most (1/4 inch quilting foot) It was reasonable priced at Walmart so I got it easily. I wanted something I could transport to camper or classes. Shop around and wait for a sale to get what you want. Watch especially ONLINE ONLY sales at Walmart with free ship to store.

Good tip I read last week is the smaller machines are not made to sew continuely so give them and you breaks.
Good shopping many sales will be available with holidays approaching.

anima57

I had a Brother ps 1200 for close to 20 years and used it like a work horse. only reason I do not have it now is that the mover broke it. just last month bought a basic brother with 25 stitches online at Joann's fabrics. was regular 99 bucks, on sale for 69 with coupon and free delivery. like it immeasureably better than the 500 dollar pfaff that I am going to get serviced and sell like a hot potato!

Georgia Peach

I bought a 51 stitch Brothers at Walmart about four or five years back and I use it everyday since 2008 for sewing quilt tops. I go to retreats with it too. The only problem I have had is that the bobbin winder doesn't wind tight enough, so I bought a small bobbin winder unit for around $19 and I have everything that I need.