I need to buy a sewing machine. Any advise out there as to which brand is the best? My mother had a pfaff and I wish I had kept it. I am not sure where to start. Thanks

I am shocked no one has has an opinion on this yet! Mine is this -- get an older machine. As old as a machine that offers all the features you absolutely must have. The cool stuff breaks down, isn't easily repaired, and is expensive to repair. Look for a machine that has no plastic parts -- inside or out.

If you buy a new machine, get one from a dealer, not a department or a chain store. They often will discount their prices if you hem and haw, and will be there for you when things go wrong. Can you call a fabric store or a department store and ask them a question about a bobbin problem? Bah! Often dealers have repaired used machines for sale as well.

Also, try out the machine you want to buy. Even if you are buying it in the ads.