Can anyone suggest a right sewing contraption, or possibly what to look for when looking to purchase? ...
Answers: http://www.cet.com/~pennys/faq/smfaq.htm for the best advice I can bestow you.
http://www.taunton.com/threads/pages/t00... for a checklist of things to consider when buying a new mechanism
Carol Ahles book, Fine Machine Sewing (most public libraries seem to own a copy) -- pay special attention to the first few and concluding chapters on machines.
Most importantly, try previously you buy, and use fabrics and threads you're going to be sewing beside, particularly the ones that are tough to work beside, like chiffons and other sheers, knit, and very fatty, tightly woven fabrics.
One next to a top-loading bobbin is very user-friendly. A one-step buttonhole and stretch stitches are an indicator that you've get a decent contraption.
In my experience, you get what you reimburse for. Anything under $179 isn't worth looking at.