cj wrote:

Thanks for the replies so far!

Those FAQs are useful and I read one like them before sending the first
post. The problem is that it is still kind of hard for me or my wife, as
first time buyers, to evaluate different machines. I would also like to get
some 3rd party opinion, not just what the sales people say. Especially when
it comes to comparing old machines with new.

Following are some specific examples of machines and prices I have come
across (in Aussie $). If anyone has any 1st hand experience with any of
these (especially the old ones), it would be helpful to hear your comments
(and I understand that everyone will have different experiences and
preferences, but sometimes I'm sure there are also machines that are
commonly recognised as either classics or lemons, and it would be good to be
aware of them!)

New:
Janome 2319 @ $339
Janome 2028 @ $399
Janome 5024 @ $499
Bernina Bernette @ $295

Old:
Elna TSP @ $329
Toyota SL34000 @ $220
Bernina 730 @ $250
Janome Overlocker JL-603A @ $195
Janome Quilters Companion 4618QC @ $400
Janome SW-2018 @ $200

Any comments will be well received :-)


Craig, as you have narrowed down the choice to these machines, the very
best thing you can do is get your wife to try them: buying a machine is
like buying shoes or a bra! TRY BEFORE YOU BUY, new or old! Then buy
the one that is most comfortable for her to use - and you! Be sure YOU
are also happy to use it!

Just a personal bit of input he I have hated every Janome I have
tried, over several years. Other folk love them, I just had bad
experiences. I like Berninas, and feel it's hard to go wrong with them,
both ordinary machines and sergers/overlockers

I had a long term loan of an old Toyota sewing machine (straight and
zigzag, no auto buttonholes, not even 4 step!), and it was the fastest
domestic machine ever! I loved it, and wish I could have kept it! I
also owned an old 3 thread Toyota serger/overlocker. It was great too.
I've always found their machines reliable and well built and good value
for money.

I've never owned an Elna, but they have felt good when trying them in
other peoples houses and in shops.

At present I own Husqvarnas (a Lily 550/555 and a Huskylock 910
serger/overlocker), and ancient Singers (a late 30's treadle and a 1923
hand crank). You can see them all at work on my web site.

--
Kate XXXXXX
Lady Catherine, Wardrobe Mistress of the Chocolate Buttons
http://www.diceyhome.free-online.co.uk
Click on Kate's Pages and explore!