Another machine question: Featherweight or light modern Jem or Passport?

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Originally Posted by Claire Hallman

Karen is right about the featherweight case. It is made of oak and is quite heavy. The machine is not very heavy but it is limited to straight stitching. That said, I love to take mine to classes/retreats. I do have to plan what I am doing in advance and usually just do piecing when I travel with it.

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So that's why it's so heavy! I knew it was wood under the fabric but had no idea it was oak... I guess that's why it's lasted so long. Haha
Still like my featherweight for traveling, at least until I'm too old & weak to carry it. Then I'll get a case with wheels.
Anyway, I can't afford to get a new machine that's lighter.

Thanks for all the feedback, esp explaining about the Featherweight case. I knew the machine was billed as under 12.

I went to Janome dealer today...Janome is no longer making the Jem Gold. They are making a Platinum with more features and a higher price as well as a few other machines that aren't real heavy, but have a much higher price. Oh well....
There are some Golds still on the web but I'd really like to sew on them. I'll go to Pfaff dealer soon.

I recommend a Featherweight as it will last forever if you do keep it clean of lint and oil it and lube the motor and gears. You can service it yourself. No need to take it in for service. It is all so easy. I have several and never take them to a shop. My 2 cents. Ruth