Originally posted by: geekender
How is a free-arm sewing machine different from a regular sewing machine?
What NakaNaka said..the free-arm design lets you sew in less standard angles and tight spaces, however it's not too common an occurence.
I'd recommend a free-arm machine only if you know what you need it for. For any other use, I'd suggest a good standard one. Singer makes good machines, and so does Brother. I think Sears's machines are ok too. There's others like Pfaff and Husqvarna but I don't know anything about them