sarahrachel

So I'm already looking for a Christmas present for me from my parents (the only thing I'm gonna ask for!) and I want to do my research. What would be the best sewing machine I could get for $200 or less (the lower the more likely I'll get it). I'm currently using my mom's machine, an old Bernina 830 and I know nothing will compare.

I've read that Singers are great and that they are horrible, the same with Brothers.

I don't use many decorative stitches, mostly the running stitch and the wavy stitch, but I can do without the wavy stitch. It can be electronic or not, I don't really care, I just want one of my own that will last a little while

Prism99

I wouldn't get a Singer in that price range. A lot of people like Brother in that price range. Also, check at Sears as the machines they sell under the Kenmore brand are supposed to be Janome. Janome has a good reputation, and you can get more bang for your buck with the Kenmore branding.

Cyn

Keep looking around and try them if you can to see how they fit you :)

Rose L

In that price range I would visit a dealer and look for a good used machine. The older machines were made better than the new ones and a good, older, used machine will serve you much longer and more efficiently than any of the new lower price point machines. JMHO.

scowlkat

Definitely check with a dealer and I would go for a Janome in that price range. If there is not a dealer close to you, www.kenssewingcenter.com is a great dealer and have excellent support.

bodie358

I agree with the Kenmores made by Janome. I got one, it's at my summer house so I can't give you the model number. I paid about $179 on sale and the comparable Janome was over $100 more!

digitalartquilts

Check craigslist if you can't find a good used machine dealer.
I buy machines for my classes on craigslist all the time.

Julia

wanda lou

good luck.

Yarn or Fabric

sarahrachel let me just start off by saying hi and I used to live in Lehigh Valley, in S. Bethlehem. I miss that area. I haven't been back in a few years but man it was exploding when I was there!

I'm going to have to agree with some others here and say try to hit a few of the sewing machine shops and see what they have available. Also make sure you tell them that you want a walking foot as well if you are planning on doing a bit of quilting.. and a 1/4" piecing foot...

My local dealer usually has some inexpensive machines, under $250 or so. It is worth looking at them. Also, Walmart sells a Brother for under $200 that is really nice. It has the extension table, walking foot, etc. It's really a great set up for a beginning machine and you can't go wrong with it at all.

Also... you've got some great second hand stores in town too. You might be able to score a workhorse that way - and you've got a freecycle group (freecycle.org) You might be able to get a free one and save some money for supplies or to set aside for your dream machine :)

OCQuilts

That's a tough one. Bernina does make a good cheap machine. Its the Bernette 46. We usually sell it at 175 and sometimes as low as 150. Its pretty hardy for that price. Good luck!