The listing said this machine was metal... wrong, the case was plastic. The bobbin holder and plate were metal, so I decided to give it a try. Wow, so easy to use, works beautifully! It was actually enjoyable sewing on this machine. I had a wonderful machine that was my mother's, but I gave it to one of my children after buying a Singer, never used and in the box at a garage sale. What a piece of junk it was. I hated using it. So, I decided to give it to Goodwill and buy a new one. Janome brand was recommended, sews through thick fabric easily, and did not pucker the rayon lining either. Started stitches nicely and was fairly quiet. Love it!