What is the best sewing machine to use/buy?

Everybody has reasons for liking one kind over another. Take samples of the fabrics you sew on to the store to see how the machines will perform for you instead of using the stores 'demo fabric' . A walking foot is a necessity for a lot of uses but you can't use it for zippers or piping on home dec, etc. only for regular stitching. The Pfaff dual feed system can be used with most feet and a variety of stitches for easier sewing. Regardless of what you decide make sure that you have free cles on using the machine and plenty of support at the store.