Sewing Machine advice wanted [View all]

We are looking at getting a sewing machine. But I have no idea what kind to get.

I'm sure it depends on use. My wife wants to make some simple curtains. It would be nice to be able to mend the occasional rip or hole in clothing. I'd like it to last a decent amount of time. These are the bare minimum of needs.

Personally, I would love to learn to sew, even to the point of making my own clothing. I notice that quality has gone down, and no one does well made, durable clothing for large men like myself(at least, not in any store I can afford to visit). Whether I actually attempt it probably depends on whether we get a machine that facilitates that with relative ease of use.

There was a computerized Brother sewing machine at Costco a while back. It had good reviews and the price was right around $200. But it was a closeout, and they were gone before we got there, with no plans to restock.

Anyone have and advice? Brands? Specific functions that I should be looking for? Things I should avoid? Is there any chance of finding a durable, long lasting, useful and reasonably priced sewing machine?