Sewing machine for a complete beginner?

[Glitterknickaz]

So.... I've decided that as I've got so into making things via knitting and stuff that I REALLY want to get a sewing machine for Christmas (yes I know it's early but DH can start saving!).

I've heard good things about the Brother LS2125... would that be good for the kind of things I want to do, ie. quilting, basic upholstery, cushions, curtains etc?
Are there any others that sewing people would recommend for a beginner that could cope with that? Hopefully not too horrifically expensive in case I don't 'take' to it?

I've found some local adult ed classes too that I can go to to learn all sorts...

Any ideas would really be very much appreciated.

Do you have a local sewing machine shop. There's nothing more useful than trying them out for yourself. Also the staff are usually very knowledgeable about what is good for your requirements.

I have a Janome and love the following features:

1. Speed limiter (a sliding thing on the machine so you can limit the maz speed then just press as hard as you like on the foot control)
2. Needle up/down button - this is really handy. I use it loads
3. Top loading bobbin - can see how much thread is left so you don't run out while sewing

Also look at the price of feet. If you want to do quilting you might want a walking foot, 1/4" foot and free motion embroidery foot. If you're planning on doing big quilting projects then the space to the right of the needle is also a factor (more space = easier quilting).

Also, if you're planning on curtains etc you need a special foot, can't remember the name, that gives you feed dogs on top, as well as underneath. It avoids the problem of pinning, tacking 8 foot lengths of material matching perfectly and then finding that after sewing they're half and inch apart at the end.

i would borrow one or check out freecycle - lots of folk buy sewing machines and then end up as expensive dust collectors.

i have a 1960's thing which does the job. the technology hasn't changed much adn if you really get into it you can treat yourself to a fancy dan one.