I learned how to sew on a machine similar to the one pictured. How I loved my Nana's old Singer...years ago when I moved from my childhood home my mother insisted that I could not have it, I later found out she put it at the curb:(

I used my mother's sewing machine which was the best machine ever until we moved. It was in a cabinet that wouldn't fit in the truck. It also needed a new cord. (which the new owner replaced very inexpensively) The sewing machine found a good home and is still being used. I ended up getting a new sewing machine--and despite the modern "improvements" it certainly isn't the 1930s workhorse that belonged to my mother.

I have an old Westinghouse machine that I do all my sewing on. I had an issue with the pedal sticking, but the hubby fixed it with no problems. The thing is a workhorse, and I love the way it looks. I don't feel like I have to hide it away somewhere like other newer machines I've had in the past.