I have a Scandinavia Huskavarna. It's the low end that you can't program to embroider. I love it. It was one of the more expensive ones but is smooth and I never have any problems with it. But my $100 Singer still works well too. Generally, Singer still sells some very affordable basic machines. And since most fabric stores sell patterns at at least 40% off - I wouldn't ever recommend paying full price. I do remember when making clothes used to make them less expensive. Not so much anymore since the fabric is expensive too.