Question of the day: How can I find the right embroidery machine. I have a very old Escante that hasn't been working for many months. I want something new, but don't have alot of money. Can you help me?

I love the Janome machines. I have both the MC10000 upgraded and the 350E. The 350 is embroidery only. Check all your dealers in your area. I sgree with what has been said, service is extremely important. Buy from a reputable dealer that will provide you with service if you should need it. Good luck in finding the right machine for you. Hugs, Mary

Personally, I'd find a good dealer. My Janome dealer always has used machines that have been taken on trade for newer ones, and they're quite a bit less expensive than new. They service them & make sure they're in tip top shape before they go out the door. What's the "right" machine for you depends on what you want to do with it. Mine is a Janome 300E, embroidery only. I have other sewing machines, so I can embroider and quilt piece or something at the same time. Suggestion: make sure you get one with at least a 5x7 sewing field. So many get machines with just the 4x4, and quickly find out they want the bigger one. And whatever you get, make sure where you can get it serviced locally, at a reputable place. It's not a bargain if you get it off eBay and then have to drive 100 miles to the nearest place that will service it. Start with your local dealers, test drive their machines. Tell them how much you have to spend, and if they keep trying to sell you up to an expensive model you can't afford, leave. I have the great good fortune to have the world's best dealer 10 miles away--sure wish you all did, they make my life so easy when it comes to embroidery. Best of luck, Marji

I would go to every dealer I could find and try every one I could afford! Each manufacturer puts in their own custom controls. Some to me are good, others cause more problems than they are worth. Same models may have different versions - so if you are buying used and it has computer components - check the version number and # of stitches! Have fun! Welcome to Cute! Live Laugh Download Stitch!

I would go and check out the Brother machine store. Here in Amarillo Tx, the Brother is in with the Bernina store. When my expensive Viking went down AGAIN and had to go to the shop (6-10 wks)cause it was around Christmas, anyway I stopped to see a Bernina and found a slightly used Brother for 1/3 the cost of my Viking. It has so many wonderful things about it my Viking did not have. If you can, check it out. Hope this helps, Hugs, Judy