Choosing a sewing machine

[elenalh]

Hi there!
This is my first post in this board. I don´t know how to sew but I´ve finally decided to learn!
So I´ve been searching the stores around here and I´ve found little variety.
I don´t have a clue about sewing machines and I have none to recommend me which one to buy, so
I have written down the names in case you people would be kind enough to give me some
comments.
Most of them are Alfa sewing machines. Here is the list:

Alfa 1238
Alfa 531
Alfa Inizia 521
Toyota JS 021
Alfa 1933

I´ll appreciate any help. Thank you in advance!!

[Ambimom]

I am not familiar with that particular brand.  Pattern Review http://sewing.patternreview.com/SewingMachine/ will provide lots of useful information.  Unfortunately the Alfa brand is not represented there.

Over the years, I have owned Pfaff, Singer, Viking, Elna and Janome.  As I became more proficient in sewing and familiar with what features I needed for the type of sewing I do, I upgraded my machines.  My first sewing machine, bought in 1963 cost $70.  The machine I have now, a Janome 6600P cost $1200.  I've loved each and every machine I've owned for different reasons.  

Sewing is very subjective.  Because there are so many choices, it can seem overwhelming, but only you can select the machine that is right for you.  Here's some more information that will give you clues on how to narrow your choices:
http://sewing.about.com/od/sewingmachineindex/bb/buymachine.htm

Take sewing lessons if you can before you buy.  If not, ask the dealer to show you how to use the various machines.  Buy a half yard of fabric, or use an old sheet or pillowcase.  Take that to the dealer and sew.  See how it feels.  As a beginner you don't need a lot of fancy stuff.  You need zig zag, built-in buttonholer, straight stitch and some utility stitches. You can find a very good machine for $200 to $350.

[elenalh]

Thank you!
I'll see what I can do about that