The Brother SQ-9000 (from Wal*Mart) weighs 10 pounds. I bought it to take on vacation and to classes. I looked at the Janome Gem but it weighed 12 lbs. My back is really bad so I opted for the Brother. I'm still playing around with it.

Tell me why everyone here is gaga about featherweights.

Featherweight is my choice - but then, I am biased, very biased. I have two of them :-)

Featherweight or 301 would be my choice.

I bought myself a Babylock Sofia2 a few months ago for just that purpose. It came with a wheeled tote, making it even more portable. It also has an embroidery arm, though it is restricted to 4" x 4" designs. I've never used the embroidery, except when I took the new owner classes. It is perfect for taking to class and it sews like a dream.
Carol in FL

Singer Featherweight is what I'd try to find. They are light and sew a wonderful straight seam. Perfect for piecing.

And they are cute too!! :lol:

i love m

i love my baby brother #cs8150. under $200 best machine ever sews nice i do free motion quilting with it

I'm another Janome Jem lover! Tried the Gold, didn't care much for it (limited stitches, including few stitch lengths as it is manual rather than computerized). Now I have the Platinum and couldn't be more thrilled - great stitches, excellent choice of stitches, computerized, etc., and only 12 lbs.!