I sadly had to 'retire' my 1951 Singer which I had used occasionally since 1980. I had started a project and now found myself suddenly looking for a machine; where to start? This Singer impressed me immediately from the posted reviews, the variety of stitches, the consumer award and it's reasonable price. Plus, it's a Singer! I am so happy I selected it. I am constantly amazed how easy it is to operate and now, after about a month of hard use, I can honestly say: "I LOVE this machine!"