By the way -- the name is Linda.

Hi, Linda. Can you give us an idea of your budget for the purchase?

Hey, Linda! First, make a list of the things you KNOW you want in a machine. The ability to get service and repair for your machine is important to me. A couple of features on machines newer than mine would be the 'scissor man' where the threads can get snipped from underneath, and also the automatic needle threader (as my eyes are not as good as they used to be!). so many great choices out there now! Good luck finding that new friend!

Good advice from both ladies! I have a sewing/embroidery machine I got from a dealer far from my home, and while I love the machine, I've felt the lack of dealer support quite a few times. Not that they didn't offer support, just that I would have to make a 3 hour trip to get it!

My current main machine was a trade-in; I've been pretty happy with it.

Like Beth said, decide what you really want/need (or what you really don't want or need LOL) and visit retailers in your area to test drive different machines.

As far as features, my main machine is a quilters' model and a few things I really love about it are a separate bobbin winding motor, a straight stitch needle plate, a big extension table, and the ability to change whether the needle stops up or down. It will also automatically lift the presser foot.

My least expensive machine (a Brother for around $200) has a needle threader and about 100 different stitches, so you can get a lot of nice options even on less expensive machines.

Donna

I like that I can see the bobbin....loads from the top, the needle can be moved, I've always wanted the thread cutter, I don't have a knee lift, so not sure if I (k)need one and definitely make sure it has a needle threader. Be aware of how large the throat is and if parts are still being made for repairs. Yes, you want a nice staff to work with and I think you might get a better deal with a trade-in or floor model. If they won't come down on the price, ask them to throw in a carrier on wheels for free and/or a few extra feet. I have a Baby Lock (Grace) and a Quilter's Dream made by Elna. Both have lots of stitches/features/feet and I like them both. Have fun.......there are so many out there and they don't all have the same features. Write down the options you really really want, and go from there.

Welcome Linda, great advice so far. Local service is important, that said, love my Janome.

You need to decide what you want in a machine - home decorating sewing, garment sewing, quilting, machine embroidery, all the above, some of the above? Sewing machines that also do machine embroidery can run in the $$$$$, a good quality sewing machine for everything else much less. For quilting, the needle-up and needle-down feature is really helpful to have for chain piecing, machine applique and other uses where you need to pivot or turn the work under the needle. Also, the ability to drop the feed teeth - also know as "feed dogs" is vital when doing free-motion quilting. Some decorative stitches on the machine are nice to have if you want to make children's clothes, curtains, placemats, napkins, kitchen towels, etc.

Getting a new machine from a dealer near you is helpful to get help with lessons on the machine use, troubleshooting, parts, and tune-ups. A machine used heavily needs a tune-up about every year. Brands that I usually recommend are Pfaff, Bernina, Viking, Baby Lock, Elna, Brother, Janome to name a few.

Lucky you - a new machine!

Teresa

Wow! So many great tips and things to ponder. Heading out this afternoon to do some looking and trying. I've done a lot of checking online for features, service, warranty, and all the stuff that goes with making an investment. So many projects on the table in a holding pattern right now so would like to find something without feeling pressured to make a decision. Thanks to everyone!

Before you decide, do you machine quilt? I love my old Pfaff and still use it the most, but I bought Babyloc Jane for to get a larger opening in the "harp" for machine quilting.

The deed is done and I'm so excited to be the proud owner of a Pfaff Expressions 3.5. Now - as soon as I figure out all the bells and whistles - we'll be back in sewing mode. Thanks for all your great suggestions that truly helped narrow down my wants and needs. My DH spoils me and I'll take it when I can get it.

Welcome to the Pfaff club. I think there are a few of us here. I have two machines myself. One is about 25 years old and still works like a charm. But about two years ago, I decided to treat myself and bought the Expressions 4.

Love it. And you will love yours.

Theresa

Congrats, Linda! Enjoy the new toy - er, machine. :)

My hubby spoils me, too. His favorite thing to say is, "Well, if you think we can afford it..." LOL

Donna

I was reading this thread yesterday--Everything I would've suggested was covered! Have fun with your new machine. I have an old Pfaff from the 70's and it still runs great! You'll have to let us know what your first project sewn on it is.

Good JOB, Linda!! I think you will love your new machine!! May you have many, many long and wonderful hours together!!

Welcome, Linda! Congratulations on your new baby--I'm sure you will love it. While I love my Janome 6600, I would definitely consider a Pfaff for my next sewing machine. I have a Pfaff long-arm, and it is wonderful.

SCORE! YAY for you, Linda! Tell your DH we think he is tops! Have fun!

How exciting! Can't wait to see your new masterpieces and how you like the new toy!

I'm so glad you were able to afford a better machine. If you sew much the extra features are well worth it. I was in your situation with my old singer. I made the mistake of getting another singer, it wasn't the lowest priced, but I was very unhappy with it, the sewing delayed between the needle moving and pressing the power pedle, the needle always stopped up and I hated that too as it didn't have an option of needle down. My next machine was, is, a Husqvarna Sapphire and I just love sewing with it. I only wish it had the built in walking foot and freemotion stitch regulator like the Bernia!, but that ones out of my price range. tish