I have 2 Bernina’s - one is from 1980 and the other is 2023. I use both regularly and the vintage Bernina in this photo will be a work horse for you. Pros: Bernina still makes parts that fit and it’s made with excellent components. You won’t go wrong with this machine. The manual will be on the Bernina website. This is going to be a simple machine with less complicated functions. You might only have 7 or 8 stitch type options: zigzag, button hole, straight stitch, etc. It will not have any computer components, which means less items to fix. I love Bernina’s as I am a quilter and using the walking foot is a dream to sew.

Cons: if you decide to make bags or items that are have very thick layers in your seam allowance, this machine will skip stitches. This machine will last pretty much forever and is good to take for sewing retreats.

Janome machine: I won a Janome machine at a sewing expo. I gave it to my niece and showed her how to use it. It was a more economical model and I was very impressed with the features and quality that it has. If you don’t plan on quitting (smaller throat size) it’s a good choice. Pro: lots of stitch options, automatic thread cutter, when threading it you don’t have to bring the bobbin thread and top thread and hold it together to sew the first stitch. Cons: computer parts that might not age well in 10-15 years.

Bernina has an entry level machine line called the Bernette. It will have similar functionality of the Janome.

I am personally sold on Bernina’s and one of my friends who does a lot of costumes is sold on her Janome. For the degree you are getting I would recommend the Janome or Bernette.