Do you have opinions on sewing machines? I ask because my family is trying to get into making our own clothes and I'm at a loss on how to even start researching and thought you might have opinions.

I'm partial to the old cast iron Singers. I grew up using a 15-91, and when I moved out I got a 99k. Both are electric and have the ability to backstitch, and they only do a straight stitch but have a bunch of feet and attachments, including a buttonholer.

It depends on what you want though, if you think you'll be needing zig zag stitch then a newer machine would be better, but you can still get solid metal ones that are decades old and have some different stitch options. I think most of the fancy stitches on those machines never get used though, you can probably get along fine with just straight stitch.

I have practically no experience with modern domestic machines, and I know a lot of them can do fancy stuff, but I don't like how plastic-y they are. I'm sure there are some that are good, I just don't know which ones they are, and I'm sure someone who does use modern machines will have suggestions! I just personally don't like the vibes of working on a plastic machine. It doesn't do the satisfying thunking and clunking of a nice old metal one, you know?

There are lots and lots of secondhand ones that can be found pretty cheap, though they might need some servicing. I bought mine off kijiji from a guy who refurbishes them, but have seen a lot of machines at thrift stores, estate sales, etc.