I think you should tell your husband to tell his coworker to make a nice home made coupon, good for one new sewing machine valued at X amount, wrap it up in a pretty box and give it to her. OR Just tell her to pick one out.

I would hate it if my husband didn't consult me on a new machine for me...that would be like me just picking out new running shoes for him...he is very particular about his running shoes and I have no idea about them. lol

That is so awesome. My DH can buy me a new one anytime! I have a Brother and a Janome memorcraft that i just love!

I would recommend if he wants to purchase the machine himself that he goes to an LQS that sells machines. I know that the closest one to me sells Janomes. They are also going to have some great Janome sales. I don't have one of these, but I know that they give the classs free with the machines, and you can go as often as you need to. Anyway, this way if it isn't what she wants exactly, she would be able to easily exchange it and receive help with the decision.

As much as he wants to surprise her a machine is so personal and what one person likes another may hate- can he get her a gift card ?

A nice card with a homemade gift certificate and then a trip to the LQS (where he stands around quietly while she makes her choice). :0)

I agree with all the above. He is going to be a hero, but he'll be a superhero if he gift wraps a photograph of a sewing machine, gives her the cash and a kiss. She knows which features are must haves and which ones she could do without. What a great DH!

I also have this machine. It does FMQ, however, it is not equipped for zig zag it is only a straight stitch machine. Good luck!

He should buy her a mini sewing machine or a toy one. This one is for 20 bucks on Amazon. Then she can open up the pretend sewing machine and still have a gift and it would be cute and fun. Then he can tell her that he would like to get her a newer nicer one and that he would take her shopping to get the one she wants :) I think a toy machine would be fun to have in her sewing room or something! And a cute gesture. More exciting than just cash.

http://www.amazon.com/Michley-LSS-20...774877&sr=8-11

I have to agree. A sewing machine is too personal for anyone but the user to pick out. $600 is a large enough amount that she probably won't be replacing it soon and should get one she really loves this time. But it is a sweet idea - a card and a check would be a good way to handle it.

Besides, think of the fun she will have trying out machines.

I agree.