Older Juki and Singer machines can be bought for $200-$500 sometimes even
less, these are referred to as Industrial Machines used for upholstery an
leather sewing. These are machines from the 30's but most are as good as
new, they are from the era when things were built to last. Missouri Sewing
Machine Company in Kansas City has some on hand.

They can also be found on ebay. A complete machine includes the machine
itself, a heavy duty table and a constant running motor with a clutch
attached to the treadle. The machine is designed to either be in motion or
not. Slipping the clutch to slow down the machine is not very practical. A
DC Servo motor has recently been introduced that allows variable speed
These motors are excellent for beginners but cost about $350. These
machines generally do not have reverse, but later models do.

Hope this answers some of your questions.

Don Dando


"Kevin Brooker" wrote in message
...
WHat are your requirements and restraints? Knowing this might help
make suggestions.

On 8 Jan 2006 07:17:52 -0800, "keysgirl"
wrote:

Ok, after $600 in sail repairs I have decided to buy my own machine. I
have looked at the Sailrite machine, very expensive $800 plus plus.
Does anyone have any other recommendations?
thanks