Recommendations Needed for New Sewing Machine

Get a reconditioned Bernina.

I stand corrected. My huge machines are so heavy on their own, a hard cover would make them impossible to move!

My Mum's old Singer, given to her second-hand for her 21st birthday 77 years ago, has a beautiful wooded case with a handle. That's bloomin' heavy too.

“I don't believe many machines have a hard cover these days.” …….my new Janome does twinny

I don't believe many machines have a hard cover these days. Really it's the large space you'd like for quilting that's going to be the most difficult to find in "cheaper" machines (apologies but £500 for a brand new machine isn't a great amount these days). Perhaps a little used, second hand machine would be a good idea. I now use a Bernina sewing machine and Baby Lock overlocker and coverstitch machines which are real workhorses but are huge investments.
From what I understand, the new Singer machines should be avoided - they don't have a good reputation.
I would also recommend buying from a local sewing machine shop as the support can be priceless when learning to use a new machine. Happy sewing.

I agree with Astitchintime - try having a look at The Sewing Studio website. They have a live chat where you can discuss your needs and they don't just push the most expensive. I bought my Janome 5060QDC from them three years ago and have contacted them by email a couple of times with queries. They always come back within a day and give great advice and support!

I bought a Lidl one in their sale for about £40. It is lightweight so I can take it to sewing class.
I had my mum's old singer repaired but honestly it wasn't worth it, the modern machines are so much smoother and easier.

My sewing teacher has recently bought herself a fabulous machine but she makes coats, jackets, wedding gowns and loves machine embroidery.
If you are just using it to make clothes, cushions and curtains I wouldn't spend ££££ .

I have had a Janome 6125 Quilters Companion for a number of years. It does all you ask, except possibly the extra space to the right. It's nice and heavy, smooth sewing and hard case

I have a Brother Innovis V7 which is a sewing and embroidery machine. I previously had a smaller sewing machine and separate embroidery machine, (also Brother) which did all you are asking for, but then I think most modern machines will.

It's just a case of finding the brand that suits you personally. I would look for a second hand one from a reputable seller. Many people buy with good intentions but hardly use them. Brother certainly hold their price in the second hand market but so do most of the better known brands.

Take a look at thesewingstudio.co.uk. I bought my latest machine from them - no pressure sales, no gimmicks, no hidden costs……….proper customer service, exactly how it should be.
Happy sewing!