We have had several over the years, the two that have hung around the longest are an ancient Singer slant needle 404? and a Husqvarna/Viking. We also had a Bernina(sp) that did pretty well. These machines were all used to sew for a family of 6 plus were used at the local community theater for costuming. I would look for a no frills name brand machine built anywhere but China/Taiwan. Maybe find a local repair shop and see what they have for sale and what they recommend as being dependable.
Aaron
