You're right that it isn't the same Singer. They closed and someone bought the name. I think they're made in China now. But, lots are and we still get some good ones. I have two old classics and still love my Janome.

It's more likely she'll get support from a local quilt store with classes than she will at JoAnn's even if she buys the machine there. Some of the "super" stores offer some classes but not a lot. Check out the JoAnn's closest to her or find her nearest quilt store and call them and ask. LQS are great resources.

You can also buy "refurbished" machines on the internet that come in looking new. I got a great Janome for half the price and it's just a straight mechanical machine with all the needed stitches.

Linda

If you can get to a Sear's store, check out the Kenmore machines. I seem to remember someone saying that this brand is made by Janome. I think I would look at the Brother machines at Joann's in preference to the Singers.

If Joann's doesn't offer sewing classes, I would contact your local community college or library to see if anyone around you offers sewing classes. Check out any vacuum cleaner store also as they frequently offer sewing machine repair. If all else fails, post a note at her local library, YMCA or community center for someone to give your DIL sewing lessons. She'll have more success and enjoy her sewing more with some lessons. A good general sewing reference book will help also.

Hi Bonnie Â

I sent you an email with the machine I just purchased for my DD. I wasnÂt sure if posting the exact machine on GW was against the rules. Lucky DIL by the way. How nice of you.

Nina

Thanks for the replies. I have continued my online search and finally found a quilt shop about 10 miles from my DIL. They only carry Bernina, though, and I have a feeling there won't be any models in my price range. My other choices, if I don't deal with her local JoAnn Superstore, would be a Janome from my own LQS or locating something online. Thanks for the link you sent, Nina. That machine is definitely interesting. I know that many members of this forum have ordered machines online. I bought my GracePro frame from an online dealer, but I worry about service on a machine. I bought my Janome 1600P at my LQS a year ago and haven't had any reason to take it in, so that may not be a real concern. Have any of you had experiences with having to return a machine purchased online?

DIL has made no-sew fleece blankets for gifts, and I'm sure she'll want to try sewing some when she has a machine. I'm excited about helping her get started sewing and hope she becomes interested in quilting. I guess I should do some test-driving over the next few weeks and take a piece of fleece along.

Any other suggestions would be most welcome. Recommendations from this forum carry much more weight than any I can find online.

Bonnie

Bonnie,
I would recommend going to Walmart and purchasing a Brother sewing machine. Try not to get the least expensive. You should be able to get a nice one for around 150 bucks. This will leave some money for you to order her quilting feet.

My husband bought me a brother in 2003, before I decided I wanted to do lot of quilting. I have made clothes on it and quilted. It is easy to use- it even has numbers on it to thread the upper part. My bobbin is vertical as opposed to horizontal and I think it is easier to thread than my mother's horizontal (she has a brother also.

I have also taken classes at my LQS with this machine. I do FMQ and use a walking foot on it with success. Mine is an older machine and has lots of room in the throat area.

Just my two cents. And I have to say what a lucky DIL!