Good, but not too exxy, sewing machine and overlocker

I used to LOVE sewing - creating things for myself and friends - have made some pretty decent things (helped make a wedding dress and bridesmaids dresses), as well as some basic stuff for me. but i moved away from mum, and the friend i used to work with - so i no longer have access to a sewing machine. i have to get my own!! i want something that works well for a beginner/intermediate, but not too expensive. it will be bought with tax return money, and i have a couple of other things i wouldn't mind grabbing while i'm at it, seeing we have zero spare for luxuries at the moment lol

so, what do you suggest? or what would you avoid? i've got months to think on it so i am happy to get as much info as you can give me!

DH bought me a Brother LS 2150 from target. Its been good for the few things I have made.

I have a very good basic Janome that I bought with some money an aunt gave me from a lottery win years ago. I think it was around the $400 mark and has a variety of stitches, self threader, etc. I've not had any issues with it and have sewn all my curtains, blinds, cushions, etc for my house with it as well as quilting,etc. I will have a look at the model no....Decor excel 5018.

I have a machine similar to Ausgirl. The Janomes are good workhorse machines. Also have a Janome Overlocker (644D I think) and that is going strong as well. You might be able to find some good traded in models, otherwise the lead up to Mothers Day is the time when there seem to be a lot of specials.

wont have money til after tax time. as much as i'd love to find a bargain earlier (i have some material i got for dresses for flowergirls in our wedding, then family breakdown meant they weren't in the wedding - i really want to use it!) - i just can't justify it til i know what we've got and want to pay cash kwim?

I have Janomes too, the 644D is a great overlocker (my pro-dressmaker friend also has one) you have to spend a LOT more to get any better its really well priced. Mothers Day and Christmas are the 2 best times to get deals, but Gumtree is also worth watching.

I got a basic Janome sewing machine when my machine broke for under $200, and it is has been tptally fine. i got it from harris scarfe, but spotlight had the same deal a couple of weeks after i bought it.

i was going to suggest mother s day sales too.

I've got the same machine as Feeb, the brother LS 2150, I use it all the time and it's great :)

I just got a brother DS-140 for $200 at Spotlight, can't wait to try it out!!