JuneBillie

This is the one I have, and I love it. It may not be metal, but I have a metal one my mother gave me and it's sitting needing something done. It's my back up though. It is a good idea though with the light ones using also to carry around with you.

sewbeadit

Both of those machines look to be a good bang for the buck, wow.

sewbeadit

All of this talk makes me want to go buy another machine! Like I need another one.lol

patski

what do you think is cheap? There are many machines in the $200 to $300 range both Janome &a Bernina that is under $200

quiltedsunshine

I second the vintage Kenmore. Get one with an oscillating hook system instead of the drop-in bobbin. Very dependable machine. You can probably get one for $75 or less.

lswan

I researched machines and bought it on reliable consumer advice. It was terrible, could not hold tension- over $2200! So I became a vintage sewing machine person. Learned how to maintain them, clean them (mostly online forum help) and have never looked back. I do not believe any current machine can do a straight stitch for piecing as a vintage one for mechanical reasons like the main shaft being in bore holes and metal gears. They do not jump around and are forgiving of lint and thread. I have Singers 15, 201, 301, 401 (zigzag), and 99 (3/4 size). When I needed a portable one for demos and workshops, I bought a Kenmore 1040- 3/4 size, does zig zags. It is all metal, strong motor and will run for the rest of your life. Comes in a cute white plastic clamshell case. I bought it for a little over $100. Any cheap new machine is a disposable and electrically finicky (circuit boards). I can do without needle down, self threading (had that part replaced 3 times in one year on the expensive P machine), so long as I have a powerful motor and flawless straight stitch. Just keep it oiled and clean. Really.

lynnie

I've looked at a few machines so far this weekend.
my friend has amazon prime and i'll talk to her.
the machine is for her house, when I go to bee.
I can have it delivered to her house. I'll look there too.
thanks everyone.

Girlfriend

Let us know what you end up with. My vote is for a Brother!! Good Luck!

kathdavis

You can't go wrong with a Brother from Walmart. If you don't like it, they will take it back. It is worth trying.

AngeliaNR

I have a Brother CS6000i. If you aren't planning to quilt anything big on it, it is a great machine.