suggestions on a used machine that does decorative stitches?

Hiya Everyone,
I have an older mechanical singer which is my true work horse. however, it only has purely utilitarian stitches and i would like to try some decorative stitching for edges and other finishing. can you suggest an older machine that would suit? of course, funds are limited and my digital machine savvy, as well, so simpler is probably better!

thanks

jennifer

www.mamaslittlehelper.typepad.com

If you like the Singers,go for a 401 or 500, both all metal machines. There are plenty of enthusiasts out there who give advice, whether you want it or not, and sell parts, if you ever need them. Both of these machines have integrated cams with stitch selectors and additional plastic/bakelite cams for even more decorative stitches. These machines are slant shank machines.

I have a Singer 401 and it is a smooth running machine. I totally recommend it.

Good luck with your choice.

Some of the Kenmores use cams that extend the decorative stitch possibliities, and some even have "reverse" type stitches so that your can even sew little duckes, greek key, etc..  I have one such machine in my personal set of "keeper" machines. They aren't as "collectable" as the Singers, so they tend to sell for less.

I have a slew of sewing machine reveiws on my blog, you might fnd them helpful.  If you are interested in learning more about the Singer slant-o-matics as mentioned by ksrunt, be sure to check out the review I have on those specifically. Slant-o-matic review

Enjoy your "hunt"!