HHere's a link to a helpful PDF file from Threads Magazine. They compare the features of a number of basic sewing machines. Very handy reference.

The basics to look for: adjustable stitch length and width, straight stitch, zig zag, adjustable needle position (left, middle, center of stitch width area), 3-stitch zig zag, hemming stitch, button hole feature. Maybe a few decorative or specialty stitches, but they aren't necessary for basic sewing.

A step up from that basic list would include knit stitches. These are formed by sewing forward a few stitches, then backwards to create a flexible stitch line that won't break when it's stretched. Generally, if a machine has knit stitches there are at least 5 or 6 of them: straight stitch, a couple of overlock stitches (allows you to sew a 1/4 inch overlocked seam on knits) and a hem stitch.

There are all kinds of wonderful features you can get these days, but with this basic list (straight stitches and knit stitches, plus a button hole), you can sew just about anything.

I'd stick with the big name brands: Pfaff (my personal favorite), Bernina, Viking, Janome, Baby Lock, Elna (and some others that I can't think of at the moment). One brand isn't necessarily better than another, but I'd avoid the "made just for walmart" type machines. You WILL need to have your machine serviced eventually, and walmart won't provide that.

If possible, visit as many authorized dealers as you can. Sit down at the machines and try them. Bring some samples of the types of fabric or projects you think you'll be sewing.

Check out their used machines, the ones they take as trade-ins. Often you'll be able to buy an older model that has features several "grades" above a new machine that you can afford, for the same price.

I've purchased sewing machines from my favorite dealer on layaway (I paid no interest, but got to pay for the machine a bit at a time). He's offered me great trade-in options -- trade in your machine on a nicer model within a year and get credit for the full price of the traded in machine. All depends on the dealer. They want your repeat business, and they can and do offer helpful services, like free training classes for your new machine, that internet sellers and other vendors will not (or cannot).

CMC

Here is a link that might be useful: 31 basic sewing machines comparison

Have you had any experience sewing before or is the whole thing going to be new for you? If you are new to it I'd suggest getting a rather inexpensive one at Walmart or Sears and starting out that way. They have very nice ones with lots of features and that way if you find you don't like to sew you are not out the hundreds maybe thousands that a machine with all the horns and whistles on it would cost. There might be a sewing class in your school system too.

Thank you very much for your help. ALl of that information is very helpful.

I have wanted a sewing machine for the last couple of years, but I somethign always came up and had to spend the money on something else. I currently crochet all the time and I have made shirts, skirts, shorts, scarfs, hats, blankets with Names in them and it was all done with just an idea in my head. That is what I plan on doing when I get a sewing machine. I want to come up with cool ideas for clothes that either my boyfriends kids will wear or that I will wear. I am pretty confident that I will like to sew considering I made 6 pillows that I sewed by hand -that took awhile :) I am not in school so I do not have that option.

You should borrow a few good sewing texts from the public libary for reference and then decide which books you like the best to use for reference. Pattern directions can get confusing at times for a beginner, sewing texts give you broader directions and techniques to use.

What no one has mentioned is doing on-line research for machines you like within your budget and then go and try them out at the dealers. This way you get the machine you feel most comfortable using.

Sewing lessons and proper machine operation is highly recommended if you have never used a sewing machine. Self-taught sewers develop bad sewing habits because they don't know the difference between good or bad sewing habits or anything about maintaining a machine. Many communities, schools, and fabric stores have adult sewing classes.

Excellent advice about lessons. In my area, I've noted that the sewing machine dealers offer basic sewing lessons, too. My local adult education department offers a class or two on basic sewing.

In my latest quilt magazine, Janome has a two-page spread with the latest sales and deals for the holidays. Sewing machines are a popular Xmas or holiday gift. With the approaching holidays, all the big brands will be offering special deals.

There's a model in the ad called the Sew Precise, a computerized machine with a total of 32 stitches, including a one-step button hole (easier than a 3- or 4-step button hole) and 16 knit stitches. Adjustable stitch width and length, speed control, top drop-in bobbin, free arm, and snap-on feet. $299. Hard to go wrong with that.

Just find the closest Janome dealer. On the Janome web site, you can just enter your zip code, and they'll give you a list.

With a new sewer, there's a fine line between not spending too much on your first machine and not spending enough to get a machine you will enjoy using. If your machine is persnickety and hard to use, you won't enjoy it, and sewing won't be much fun. A quality tool is a joy to use.

When I finally abandoned my old, used sewing machine (2 stitches only - straight stitch and zig zag) that required constant adjustment and bought one of the new-generation machines, I thought I'd died and gone to heaven.

CMC

Here is a link that might be useful: Janome dealer locator

I am partial to Brother. I still have my first one from when I first got married 37 years ago and it still is going strong. I have a newer Brother now with all the thrills and glitz. I use it for the detailing, but I use ol' faithful for my everyday sewing. I just can't quit sewing on it. So, I like Brother the best.

Another idea for lessons is if there's somebody in church, job, etc. that would show you the basics. As usual my vote on machine is for an old one from the thrift store. I too have a brother will all the bells and whistles and hefty price tag that serves it's purpose, embroidery, and I sew everyday on my 1964 Singer.
Thanks,
Susan

Thank you all of that information is very helpful. Now I have an idea of which direction to go.