Best sewing machine for a beginner

[Likeaheadlesschicken]

Evening all. I am in the nesting phase whilst pregnant with my second child, this nesting has however nothing to do with cleaning and everything to do with craft projects!!! I had a very old new home machine that met it's maker last week and was wondering if anyone could recommend a replacement machine. I can't spend too much as money is tight but just need something this is reliable and offers the best value for money. If it came from John Lewis that would be even better as I have some vouchers for there!! Thanks!

Bumping for any sewing machine buff's out there!!

Janome is the best. And JL sell them. Spend around £200. Very pleased with mine as you can either use a foot press or finger control for control.

Take into account you will be using it for the children in years to come. I make the occassional curtains, fancy dress and plenty of mending.

I wouldnt spend less than £150 as the machine will be limited. I tried to avoid anything with too much fancy embrodiery as even though it looks fab and the real world it doesnt get used!!!

What do you think?

I would recommend that If you can you should pop into John Leiws and have a chat to them but off the top of my head I would say:
John Lewis do This one.
When I was at uni a lot of the other girls used them as good basic machine. They wont do heavy fabric but they sew nicely and not to expensive.
They also do a Mini machine which is ok to but has a lot less functions. Though at least 3 of my fashion student friends swear by them for doing little projects and alterations, as they sew well and are far more portable then most machines.