sewing machines, not for quilting

I would stick with a dealer as they usually do better on things like
maintenance (in house that is)
but then we don't have a Joanne's here so I can't comment on them.

I personally have a Janome 419S a non computerised machine with all the
stitches you need for mending as well as a semi automatic buttonhole and a
blind hem stitch. the other day I managed to sew through: 8 layers of
fabric, 2 layers of batting *and* 4 layers of extra strong interfacing and
ended up with a nice bag :-D and 2 years ago it survived falling off the
table onto the floor with just a cracked case and the back stitch lever lost
a thingy that was easily fixed

NAYY (wish I was though.. I'd love one of the bigger machines for quilting
BEG)
--
Jessamy
Queen of Chocolate Squishies (and Occasional Liquorice Ones)
In The Netherlands
Take out: _I love the colour_ to reply.
www.geocities.com/jessamy_thompson
http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/jes...pson/my_photos
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A friend of mine is thinking of buying a sewing machine for "occasional
household sewing" plus making comforter covers. She is looking to spend
a maximum of several hundred dollars.

Nearby dealers include Janome, White, Husqvarna, Viking.

Any thoughts on brands? Or Joann's vs other dealers?

She has tried a couple of models of each of the above, and does have
some she likes better than others. But I offered to check with you
folks, since I only know one brand, and you all have wide experience.

TIA!

Martha