That's pretty much what I thought of brothers machines...the fit and finish of the exterior don't really scream craftsmanship. I guess that if you get a good one it's gonna be great but the rest are barely adequate.

I wouldn't mind a treadle just for the "cool factor" but I think I'll skip it for now. I used to live on Whidbey Island WA, so I know what you mean about power being sketchy, especially in winter.

A lady a few doors down has a machine in her basement that she says I can have if I go get it. I'm going over there as soon as my wife gets home...it's cold and wet and windy and I don't feel like bundling up the baby to 120 feet.

I'll let you know what it is. Might be buried treasure...might be junk...might be some critter's home. That would be good too as I could use a fur sporran!