I have a Singer 503a that I find great for everyday use. It is a slant needle that can do zig zag. It's from the early 60's, but all needles and feet can be currently purchased at stores. You can find the decorative stitch cams commonly on eBay. It's easy to use, doesn't need any "rocket science" to maintain. I got it for $35.00 and lubed and oiled it and have used it for over a year making denim rag quilts. It has a strong motor and would be good for a beginner to use.

There are other Singers in the 500 series that are similar and the 301a is perfect if you just want straight stitch. I've seen the 301a for under $100.00. Of course, the ultimate straight stitch is the Singer 221 (featherweight), but those are hard to come by and can be pricey.

Good luck,
Elaine

I agree with the other poster, you need a zigzag to finish seams and do other things like satin stitch...the older machines have a stretch stitch for knits, a blind hem stitch that saves a lot of time, and one-step buttonholer.

You might also want to look into Kenmores that were made by Janome.

Should you find a machine, let your friend try the machine out first to make sure she is comfortable using that machine...not all machines are created equal and everyone has a different way of working and comfort level.

I have a Pfaff 1222E that is all metal. It is quite old, but right now using it to make wall to wall linen drapes. You couldn't ask for a better machine.

My altering and regular sewing is a 20 year old Pfaff, and the beauty in the basement, used for charity quilts, is a wonderful 30 year old Bernina.

I still use my Viking 6460 even though I have a Designer 1. The older Viking has a low gear feature that I love when sewing heavy fabrics (denim, upholstery). I've seen this model go for arough 250 on ebay. My machine is over 25 years old and still going strong.

A lady on the Kitchen Table...recently got a Pfaff on freecycle...Now that was a really good deal...

I'm alway too late...lol

patti

I have an old Elna su - it is supposed to have the "nicest straight stitch ever made". This is according to an Opinion guide.

There is a new craft/sewing tv show in my area. When I was watching yesterday I noticed that was was using a very old Singer - so old it had the motor mounted on the back. She sewed lace, a wool jacket and satin, so it most sew great.

Monica

Until I bought my brandy-new Juki my "work horse" was a 1929 Singer 31-15, lockstitch (no reverse). My first machine was a White Rotary in a Martha Washington cabinet (still have it) with ALL the attachments (scroll hemmers, rufflers, tuckers, folders, fellers, binders, etc.) I also have a Willcox&Gibbs (rotary take up) I love. I used the folder or the binder the clean finish raw edges). I made bound buttonholes or worked them by hand.

Zig-zag is good to have if you only have one machine because with it you usually have a buttonhole option, too. You can clean finish edges, well... SORT of. Wonderful machinery is available for pennies on the dollar at junk shops, yard sales... . I'd be looking for old Kenmores, Phaffs, Whites, Singers. Always ask about the manuals, too, and the attchments (older machines 40-50 yrs. came with a full complement of them!). At yard sales, if it's complete you can reasonably bet only a cleaning will be required. And those things are often the first things to be resold when a dealer reconditions a machine! Any one who's bought a ruffler or a tucker or specialty feet knows what I'm talking about.