You've gotten some good advice and I hope you get that machine!  I just have to say I can't imagine not owning a machine, or not liking to sew!  I can't remember a time in my life w/out either one. 

WOW! I'm overwhelmed with the amount of support here! Thank you!

Unfortunately I didn't win the machine  :'( I'm still looking around for some good deals and if any of you see any be sure to let me know! :P

I'm going to test out a few of your hand-sewing suggestions today and I'll get back to you after I finish!

Thanks again everyone!

Kevin

Is the Brother LS-2125i a good sewing machine? I found it and it seems to be relatively cheap used. Anyone have it? Anyone have any opinions on it?

WOW! I'm overwhelmed with the amount of support here! Thank you!

Unfortunately I didn't win the machine  :'( I'm still looking around for some good deals and if any of you see any be sure to let me know! :P

I'm going to test out a few of your hand-sewing suggestions today and I'll get back to you after I finish!

Thanks again everyone!

Kevin

I know you mentioned that you were on a budget............. what is the maximum amount that you have in your budget for a used sewing machine? This will give a better understanding for us to help you search for a reasonably priced sewing machine. We try to be very supportive of all our members in all personal or business matters. If we can help you with anything else just post in the appropriate area and we will try our best to help you. I would also mention that we Love pictures and Thank you for sharing yours.

Is the Brother LS-2125i a good sewing machine? I found it and it seems to be relatively cheap used. Anyone have it? Anyone have any opinions on it?

I have a Brother model #5130 and a model#1217 and both have been great sewing machines. I recommend Brother products. I have a MFC-6490 Brother wireless printer also and all have served me well.

Thanks again, I'll be sure to upload pictures when I finish.

& I know it's hard to find, but $60 is pushing it for the amount of money I have to spend right now.

Thank you all!

Kevin

Here is the information from brother USA for that model brother
http://www.brother-usa.com/homesewing/modeldetail.aspx?PRODUCTID=LS2125i#.T4yBNNVSTh8

Good news!

I bid on a Brother LS-2125i for 22.50 and won it! 41.50 all together! Wooooooooo!

And I just started working on a Kermit replica and used some of your sewing recommendations and I found that I liked using the ladder stitch MUCH better than the whipstitch. It looks cleaner and I find it easier. I brushed my seams and at one point in on the ladder stitch side, the seam is invisible! Ahh! It felt so good to have my first invisible stitch!

I'll post updates later along with pictures!

That's awesome!  You are moving along quickly!
 

I just Love it when a plan comes together........... Congrats on your WIN!