I have 'oldish' sewing machine and overlocker about 30 and 20 years old respectively.

They are a Novum and a New Home - both made by Janome. They have given long and trouble free service, but you do need to use the right needle for the job - there are quite a few different sorts and sizes and it does make a considerable difference to have the right one.

I must confess that I sew my kilts by hand, but that is not because the machine would not do the job - I do sometimes sew a hem on the machine if I am pushed for time, but will pull it out and redo it later.

This is only because I think the kilt is the pinnacle of garments and deserving of the extra time and dedication. Just about everything else is sewn on the machine.

Anne the Pleater