Q.  I am in the market for a new sewing machine and I remembered you saying in class the kind we should have but I forgot what it was. Just want to make sure I get something that will be dependable and last a long time. Let me know what you recommend if you have time. Thanks!

A.  Much depends on your budget and what you want it to do.  Janome Magnolia 7330 is a good bet ($349.95).  They are solid machines with synchronized stitching, 30 stitches including 6 beautiful and completely automatic buttonholes.  For a few dollars more, you can get a Janome DC2010 (50 stitches with 3 automatic buttonholes, $399.95) or Babylock Grace 40A (40 stitches with 5 even more beautiful automatic buttonholes, also $399.95).  All these have proven very popular among my students.  And about dependability:  As I say about my Janomes, you can pound nails with them and they will still keep sewing.  And as I say about my Babylock sewing machines:  They make the best buttonholes in the business.

Why don’t you come to my Speed Dating with Sewing Machines class Saturday, May 1, 2-5 pm?  In 3 hours you’ll get to try out 8 different machines and see what you like best.  Then you’ll be better able to judge what you want to buy.