Sewing machine question

[untonuggan]

Question.

My sewing machine is ancient and needs maintenance and I know this.

My father is embarking on an Ambitious Sewing Project, which fortunately my sister is mentoring him on because she has way more sewing experience than I do. (It involves making backpacking supplies himself. Just don't ask and roll with this one because he is doing it no matter what anyone says.)

He is looking for a sewing machine to do the project, but will probably not be doing much sewing after that. So, used would be good, or inexpensive but not one that is a pain in the ass to use.

Things the machine needs to do:

• Sew a straight stitch (both forwards and in reverse)
• Sew a zigzag stitch
• Sew thin slippery nylon fabric without flipping out and puckering, etc.

Also he is having a bit of a, "What brand? Where do I buy this machine?" Kind of moment. Being that I am the kind of person who is on a budget, I mentioned Costco having sales on sewing machines around the holidays. He was not sure if their machines would be of the best quality/be able to meet his needs.

Help? I am not sure there is One Right Answer, but any advice on brands/prices/locations to buy machines would be greatly appreciated.