I don't have the cash to sink into a "real" sewing machine...does anyone use one of these?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=330034545273&ssPageName=MERC_VIC_RSCC_Pr4_PcY_BID_Stores_IT&refitem=330033429187&itemcount=4&refwidgetloc=closed_view_item&usedrule1=StoreCatToStoreCat&refwidgettype=cross_promot_widget

I just want to make some stuff sacks and maybe some mitts, but that is it. Thanks for any input.

Personally, I wouldn't go near that. Before I did, I'd do web searches and see if I can find some reviews.

You might be able to pick up a used machine at some garage sale or thrift shop.

You could go to one of the sewing newsgroups, like alt.sewing, and state your needs. Sometimes the answer you get will be "get the one that works for you", but someone might be able to at least steer you away from the bad ones.

Go to a Wal-Mart, or Hancocks, or whatever, and write down the models they have. Then go home and do a web search, looking for something like "Singer XXX review", and you might get something. You'll also get a bunch of links back where the review pertains to the seller rather than the machine, but you'll just have to sort through that.

machine review on Amazon

Here's one for $80 or so.

I'd at least get one from a place where you can return it if it breaks. Not eBay.

for the link and info. Cheers.

Just so you know, I've never used the machine in question. It just seemed to have good reviews. I did a whole bunch of research before I got mine, asking people, using one in a store, etc. I got a higher end machine though.

I have the Brother LS2125. Got it from walmart for $80. It works great! It doesn't do many fancy stitches but it does straight, zig-zag, elastic and botton holes. I just use it for straight stitches but it works dependably every time. You can vary the spacing on the stitches.