I bought a Bernina off ebay a few years ago. I'd say go with the padded sewing machine tote if you're taking it to retreats. You'll go up curbs, stairs, rough sidewalks, etc. I went to the Mid-Atlantic quilt festival with mine and was in and out of hotels, on escalators, elevators, you name it. The machine can get a real beating if you're not careful.

I have a Joann's case for my small machines. I have used it for at least 5 years now. It was on clearance and they let me use a 40% off coupon so I think I paid $20.00 for it, but it still looks new and everything works. I had to get a much larger one for my Janome - believe it is the Tutto mentioned above. It will accommodate the larger machine, but I have to open the front and the top then reach thru the top and pull my machine in through the front. It fits so that is what matters but I was hoping to be able to just set it in, but unable to find a case. So be sure what you buy will fit your machine.

I bought this bag at Harbor Freight. It is a tool bag made of very heavy canvas. It isn't padded, but is big enough for me to put my Brother machine, with the hard cover on it, inside. I like the heavy handles on the top. So many rolling cases don't have handles to pick up without using the telescoping handle. I figure I'll have enough fabric, and equipment in the bag to pad the machine. The best part was the price. If I find something better I'm not out much.
http://www.harborfreight.com/20-inch...-bag-3264.html

I have the larger Blue Fig case like the first one and it is great. I take it out at least once a week for classes and group sewing and it has held up very well.

We have a couple of those around here. You can't beat it for the price. We hauled all of hubby's medical equipment around in one for slightly over 3 yrs. - talk about delicate stuff - never hurt the equipment in all those years.

Shari

Bluefigs are awesome, I can fit my espire in it and got one for 109 no shipping at allbrands.com

It really depends on how often you plan on using, where you will be going and how much you want to spewnd. I have the one from Jo-Ann's with coupon and it is fine. No problems with handle. I use it to take classes on a weekly basis driven in my car, no problems and it is big enough to carry all my supplies and my Featherweight.

I have purchased several but the one I prefer is the tutto. Worth the money.

I got mine at Joanns about 3 or 4 years ago and it has been great.