Pros: The Janome 2212 sewing machine is a good, basic machine. It features 12 built-in stitches, a buttonholer and adjustable length and tension. While a basic machine, buyers have said it will go through several layers of material easily, and Janome offers a 2

Cons: Some users have said the bobbin thread jams or snaps. It also does not have a "soft start," which may mean users have to get the sewing started with the handwheel, and then let the machine go.

Summary: The Janome 2212 is good for sewing projects and some quilting. The 25-year warranty makes it an attractive purchase, since Janome is known for good customer service.

Pros: The Michley LSS-505 sewing machine is good for beginners and very basic sewing tasks. Its simple design and construction are suitable for tweens and teens learning to sew. It has a drop in bobbin cartridge and threads easily. It's also lighweight.

Cons: The machine only takes small spools of thread, rather than full size. Users have reported issues with thread snapping and needles breaking, either due to poor needle quality, or needles were misaligned on the machine and struck the faceplate.

Summary: With the known flaws, buyers will want to consider whether they want to try this machine at a low price, or bump up to a higher quality machine. What the Michley does, it does well, as long as it works correctly.

Pros: The Singer 4423 Heavy Duty Extra-High Sewing Speed sewing machine has a sewing speed of 1,100 stitches per minute, and 23 different stitches. It features a drop in bobbin cartridge and an automatic threader. The metal case is sturdy without being too heav

Cons: Bobbin problems have been reported, as have thread jamming and thread breaking. Some users say the machine lasted for a few hours, then gave out. Singer has not always been responsive to repair issues, even under warranty, according to some users.

Summary: Overall, this is a good machine for beginners or for experienced sewers who just need a machine to do some basic tasks. It will sew through thick or heavy material, and is a good buy for the features offered at the price.

Pros: The Brother CS6000i sewing machine is a good machine for a beginner. It features 60 stitches, a buttonholer, automatic needle threading and bobbin winding. It also comes with a nice accessories package, including five presser feet attachments.

Cons: Users have reported issues with the tension and bobbin loading (and resulting bobbin thread lopping). The bobbin loading problem may be correctable by the user, but the tension issues may be a manufacturing problem.

Summary: The Brother machine is simple and even beginning sewers should be able to use it easily. It's not a professional grade machine, but works well for smaller projects and clothing.