Singer is a great brand but...

I recently returned my Singer model 2517 after receiving it for Christmas. Even as a novice sewer - the machine seemed far too elementry, and had too many confusing problems/directions.

My grandmother whom has passed on her love of sewing to me loves Singer and their machines; however, I'm thinking that perhaps this "budget" model doesn't live up to its brand name.

The bobbin system seemed to be the most frustrating as you have to thread it underneath the switchplate. It gets complicated from that point on for me.

I also had many issues with the tension being off and hardly ever any seams holding.

Lastly, the instruction manual is utterly confusing to the novice. The diagrams are hard to read and follow.

Sadly, I gave my singer up in hopes of something a bit more reliable but I still respect their reputation and name.