Replies

1. 
   Sewista | Aug 01, 2009 05:36am | #1

   http://www.patternreview.com

2. 
   cafms | Aug 01, 2009 05:44am | #2

   Threads magazine has a review of several different machines here https://www.threadsmagazine.com/tools-and-supplies/page/2

   Go down the page a bit and you should see entries about Pfaff, Singer, Brother, Janome, etc.  Maybe this will help you.  It is also good to go to each machines website. 

3. 
   sewfar | Aug 02, 2009 07:36am | #3

   I for one consider any sewing machine not set into a table a portable. Of course some machines are a lot heavier than others so consider that when you deem a machine portable. I also feel more secure toting my old mechanical machine around than my newer more delicate (?) computerized sewing machine.

1. 
   starzoe | Aug 02, 2009 08:25am | #4

   I agree with you that a portable is any machine not set permanently in a case/table. In fact when this question came up the first thought in my mind was the only really portable machine I know of is the small, aged Singer that is much wanted by quilters. And you are right, I wouldn't want carry my Husqvarna (though aged) around, it's much too heavy but not as sensitive to damage as the newer computer ones.

4. 
   irmacarol | Aug 07, 2009 06:00am | #5

   Hi There,

   I recently bought a Janome Gem 760 and have not used it much yet.  It was purchased to use in various classes - both quilting and fashion.  So far I really like this little machine - which is very light.  And light weight was the hot ticket for me.

   You can get a lucite extension table for it (or try and get your dealer to work with you on the table).

    

   Good Luck

    

   IrmaCarol

5. 
   sewslow67 | Aug 22, 2009 10:22pm | #6

   I agree with everyone regarding weight, as it's a big deal for some of us.  DH bought me a Jem Platinum 760 for my birthday and is has been a joy to take to classes etc.  It is 3/4 size of a "regular" machine and is only 12-pounds.  However, it does everything that most full size (and heavy) machines to, including several styles of one-step button holes. 

   My other machine is the top of the line Pfaff that does everything but cut out the fabric, but I must say, if I didn't have the Pfaff, I'd be more than happy with the small Janome.  I does everything with perfection and I love sewing on it.  It is truly a "Jem".

   Good luck with your search, and let us all know what you ended up purchasing.  Whatever you do, enjoy!

6. 
   MaryinColorado | Aug 22, 2009 11:49pm | #7

   I agree with checking http://www.patternreview.com they have machine reviews by their owners. 

   The main concern with the lightweight machines is vibration.

   You might also look into sewing machine trolleys online, I'm very happy with one I bought for my serger by Canvas Collectibles.

   I also have one by Viking.  Both are high quality and work very well for transporting the machines to and from classes and on trips.  Mary

   Edited 8/22/2009 4:59 pm by MaryinColorado