Make sure you like the staff at the sewing machine shop. If you don't, find another shop. The staff will be your lifeline for machine questions/problems.

I love my Janome, but I would try every one they have. Consider a reconditioned machine, you may get more for your money. Needle up/down, walking foot, feed dogs that lower, and ending stitch (lock stitch?) are some things I would consider too. A helpful and knowledgeable staff will be very important, too.

I have a Janome 6500 and I love it. Works really well except on knits, but this is an old model.

Depending on what fabrics you are sewing, bring in your own fabric samples, quilt sandwiches, etc to try on each machine. Thoroughly test all functions you like to use when sewing. I used to sew clothes but now that I wear only knits, my machine doesn't sew them too well. It is an amazing machine for quilting.

If you're quilting, look for a wider sewing bed, easy free motion quilting (with matching foot). Test out fancy stitches and hem stitches on your own fabrics.

I agree, a used machine (from someone who is upgrading to a new machine) will get you a better machine for the money. Also agree that there should be a reputable service dealer for your brand nearby.

There are Janome Yahoo groups you can join to find out all kinds of info from thousands of users.

Have fun with it!

Guys, I have gift certificates for a particular shop so buying used is not an option. Can anyone suggest models in my price range?

I have two Janomes and I love them. I don't know what particular model is in your price range. Often shops will take machines in on trade for a newer, bigger model. If your shop does this, they may have a used machine of higher quality or with more bells and whistles that might be in your price range. I have the Janome 6600, but it retailed for $1,500. A used one might be in your range. I also have a Janome Jem Platinum, which is a great little machine, but I think it's too small to be your only machine.

The first question to ask yourself is "How will I use this machine?" Since your thread is posted on the Quilting Forum I imagine you are a quilter. If that is the case, consider a Singer Featherweight. It weighs about 11 pounds and is strictly a straight-stitch machine. It makes a perfect stitch and can be maintained easily at home, avoiding the costly trips for cleaning and adjustment at a shop. Depending on your luck at garage sales, flea markets and on-line auctions, it will set you back from $50 - $500. Even the ugliest Featherweight can be made to sew beautifully. Price is dependent upon cosmetic condition. Parts are readily available even though production ended in the 1960s. I take mine to a workshop eery week. It's over 80 years old and sews like a champ.

P.S. to my comment above. Stores usually take older machines in trade for new so if you're interested in a Featherweight ask the store to contact you when one comes in.

See my initial post. They carry Janome and Elna machines.

Jennifer, te store may carry only certain brands NEW but will likely sell anything they receive in trade.