Which sewing machine?

[Callisto]

Hi all, wonder if I could ask some advice about buying a sewing machine?

I do a reasonable amount of sewing through the year and have made bunting and cushions plus linings for my marquees. It is all really straightforward stuff tbh, but I do like to have the option to use fancy stitches and sew buttonholes too.

I need a fairly robust sewing machine that can sew relatively thick bits of fabric without breaking needles every five minutes but that can also sew silk and fine cotton without ruining it. I don't want an industrial machine, and I don't really want to spend more than £100 if possible.

Look forward to hearing from you all.

John Lewis do a good own brand one for £99. Comes in funky colours.
Bought mine about a month ago, and am really pleased with it.

I second the funky coloured john lewis one! I've got the mini version £49. No opened it yet (bought it today) but the reviews are fantastic!

Big one [[//

For £100, I'd get a secondhand machine, not too new, not computerised. Not a really old vintage one, but from the 1990s onwards are good modern style machines.

Better to go to a shop that does reconditioned machines or buy from a seller that offers a guarantee. (try yellow pages, there might be one in your town).

For heavier fabrics and reliability you need a proper machine, not a mini or toy machine. £100 is pushing it a bit but you might get lucky on ebay.

to give you an idea

example

this looks good too