You can never have enough...

[JanW]

Good morning, and thank you all for your very helpful advice.  I need to have a big think now, particularly about whether I would actually use a machine enough to warrant not only the cost but the need to rearrange my studio to make space for one.  Also, of course, the cost of the accessories like good shears, thread and other haberdashery.  I think if I go ahead I will look for a reconditioned machine as I wouldn't be interested in fancy stitches apart from stretch stitches.

I really regret giving away my sewing gear - I gave it all to my troubled teenage step-daughter in the hope that her interest in clothes might spur her into learning to sew.  She didn't.

Olive just keep your eye out for second hand stuff - you could pick up a basic machine cheaply - estate sales are great as sadly all the sewing equipment is often more or less chucked out - it’s annoying when you give something away and it doesn’t get used but I am sure you will enjoy getting back into sewing especially if you can get a bargain to get you going .I gave my granddaughters a whole lot of kitchen stuff and they boxed it up and returned it when they shifted to Oz recently - not sure how long they expect me to store it for