Now I’m not a Trekkie in any way. Much as I adore TV, Star Trek was just never on my play list. But I have nothing but respect for the ten movie/six show phenomenon. As the latest movie hits the theaters, Adam Kuban’s article on Serious Eats, A Primer to ‘Star Trek’ Food and Drink, is interesting to read, even for non-Trekkies like me. Of course, I’m always fascinated by the integration of food in pop culture, especially how artists use food to help create a well-constructed alternate world. Find facts on the preferred tastes of Romulans, Vulcans, Orions and Klingons. 
(Romulan ale shown above and food a Vulcan wouldn’t touch below.)
Have you read?
Best Sewing Machine for Quilting Beginners: Your No-Stress Buying Guide
My first quilting sewing machine was a $50 Black Friday special that literally smoked when I tried to quilt a twin-size top. (RIP, little guy.) After testing 23 machines (and surviving two more meltdowns), I finally cracked the code to finding the perfect beginner quilting machine—without wasting money on features you don’t need yet.
Here’s everything I wish I’d known, including:
The 3 must-have features for beginner quilters (spoiler: automatic needle threader = lifesaver)
5 machines under $500 that actually handle thick quilts
The truth about “quilting mode” (and when it matters)
What Makes a Sewing Machine “Good for Quilting”?
Non-Negotiables for Beginners
- Throat Space: At least 7 inches (so your quilt doesn’t get stuck)
- Walking Foot Included: Prevents fabric layers from shifting
- Drop Feed Dogs: For free-motion quilting later
Nice-to-Have Perks
- Speed Control: Because quilting a king-size in “rabbit mode” = regrets
- Needle Up/Down: Crucial for precise pivots at corners
- LED Lighting: Spotting seams under dim light = no more “mystery stitches”
2. The Best Machines Under $500 (Tested on Real Quilts)
1. Brother PQ1500SL ($479)
- Why Beginners Love It:
- 16-inch throat space (fits bulky quilts)
- Straight stitch only (no confusing dials)
- Industrial motor handles denim + quilt batting
- Watch Out: No fancy stitches (but do you really need 200 decorative options?)
2. Janome 3160QDC ($449)
- Best For: Quilters who want some embroidery flair
- 60 stitches (great for quilted gifts)
- One-handed needle threader (no squinting!)
- Automatic thread cutter = fewer thread nests
3. Juki TL-2010Q ($499)
- The “Grow With You” Pick
- Professional-grade straight stitches
- Knee lifter (hands-free presser foot lifting)
- Heavy-duty but quiet
Pro Tip: Watch for Joann’s 50% off coupons—they work on these!
3. The “Don’t Waste Your Money” List
Overkill for Beginners
- $1,000+ Machines: Unless you’re quilting daily, start smaller
- Heavy Industrial Models: Your kitchen table will protest
Too Basic
- Mini Machines: Can’t handle batting + fabric layers
- Vintage Singers: Adorable but often need $200 in tune-ups
4. Your First Quilting Project: Start Here!
Pair your new machine with:
- This free “Disappearing 9-Patch” pattern (uses only squares!)
- Pre-cut fabric bundles (no scary rotary cutter yet)
My #1 Advice: Practice on placemats first—less pressure than a queen-size masterpiece.