Sewing Machine- what to look for?

I'm thinking of giving sewing a try and want to buy a machine. I used to use my mom's Singer, but it's been a long while.

What features should I look for in a machine? What should I stay away from? Specific brands/models you like? Any info to get me started would be helpful!

Re: Sewing Machine- what to look for?

What features depend on what you want to do with it. You could get a basic 7 stitch machine and be able to make just about everything - clothes, crafts, quilts or you could spend $13K and have embroidery modules, a machine that runs on windows, intelligent stitch regulators - you name it!

I do a lot of quilting and some clothing, and have a pretty basic machine, but it does everything I need. I think more importantly is who makes the machine.

I know people who swear by Singer, personally I don't like them (but maybe the one I had in college was just a bad machine) I have heard bad things about White, and mixed reviews on Brother.

I use a Bernina and LOVE it. I belong to a quilting guild with 230 members; the most prevalent machines in the guild are Bernina, Pfaff, Husqvarna, Janome and Singer.

Re: Sewing Machine- what to look for?

I'm not looking for anything fancy...I'm willing to spend around $150-200. I want to try making clothes, hemming pants, and maybe making a quilt. I told a friend of mine that I was looking at Brother and she told me to look at Bernina as well.