which machine?

Wow...tough question. It all depends on how much you plan on spending, what you plan on sewing and what features you think you need. You can spend anywhere from $100 for a basic good used machine all the way up to $10,000 for a new top of the line, all singing, all dancing, embroidery/sewing machine.

That being said, I would recommend the following features that I love...

- Automatic needle up/down feature

- Side loading bobbin if you plan on machine quilting. (That way you don't have to take the quilt out of the machine to change the bobbin)

- Pressure foot knee lift bar (I don't know how I ever managed without that great feature).

- Weight. Will you be taking it to classes often or will it be mostly staying at home. They can range from 10-35 lbs.

Most machines come with free arm capabilities (for sewing around sleeve cuffs) and button hole (sometimes automatic, sometimes semi-automatic).

I would go to many different sewing machine stores and ask many questions and test drive many machines. That way you will get a feel for the machines and see which ones feel right to you.

There are many good brands, but I would lean towards whichever dealer is local, offers free classes or help on the machine and overall the friendliest and most helpful. Oh, and also a store which does its own in-house servicing.

But if your budget is limited...don't be afraid of a good used machine. If you buy from a dealer, you will get the most bang for your buck. Many will offer an in-house limited warranty, i.e. 6 months.

Sorry that I didn't recommend a particular machine, but I think it is more important for a beginner to do a lot of looking around to see what is out there. Buying a sewing machine is a lot like purchasing a car. Many different brands, wide price range, new or used, standard or automatic, Hyundai or Rolls Royce (Price Range), Chevy or Ford (brand loyalty)...you get the picture.

So have a good look around and then come back with questions and advice about the 2-3 machines you get it narrowed down to .

Good Luck Cheri

Hi, Someone once said buy as much machine as you can afford. Another must is the auto needle threader for aging eyes, a good light (my Bernina has an ott type one). Feed dog drop, adjustable needle postition, presser foot pressure adjustment, and a few more I will think of after I send this. :-)

-- Sugar & Spice Quilts by Linda E

If you also want to do embroidery but also have all the other stitches etc consider a 2nd hand Janome 9000 they are user friendly , touch screen and pretty reliable also should be plenty around that are reasonable