Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

First, let me say, that I am upgrading from a very cheap, big box purchased sewing machine, so perhaps my amazement with this machine is just relative to the pain I experienced with that cheap machine. I asked around to a few sewing friends to get recommendations of brands and many of the suggested machines were pretty far out of my price range (unless I purchased a very basic machine) until a friend suggested Janome. I did quite a bit of research before purchasing and found good reviews about this brand & the machine. The really great thing about this machine is that you are able to get a quality sewing machine with a good amount of features for under $300. If I had purchased some of the other brands mentioned, I'd be looking at at least $400 and it would have been a basic machine. I have used this machine so far for blind hemming, making ruffles with my ruffler foot, and plain stitch sewing. Every time it has been a breeze, incredibly easy. It was even very easy to hook up my ruffler foot and I had zero issues (my attempts with my last machine would always end in cussing as I could never get the thing to work right). Here's what I really love about the machine: 1. Needle up/down button: it is incredibly nice to have the machine put the needle in the down position every time I stop sewing, no more moving fabric! 2. Auto lock stitches on basic stitches: I love that I don't have to worry about back stitching...the machine auto sews a locking stitch at the beginning and I just have to hit a button for the end 3. Auto needle threader actually works! 4. Thread cutter on machine: this is such a simple feature, but I love it. My last machine did not have it. 5. Superior Feed system: so far, this machine has done a great job at pulling various weights of fabric through. I really have only had to guide and not push/pull like I did with my last machine 6. Drop in bobbin with clear cover: never will I own a machine again that you have the side placed bobbin. This is so easy to insert and I can see when I'm about to run out of thread. What else do I love....it's a solid machine but not too heavy to carry as I don't have a dedicated sewing area. It is incredibly quiet! It so far has made every sewing project a quick and easy endeavor. Let me add, I'm not a novice sewer, but by no means an expert. I feel like this has enough features for my sewing skill level and the types of clothing/home decor projects I do.