Hi All

I'm trying to work out how much space I need in my sewing studio for either the 12000 or the 15000 (now I am leaning towards the 15000, earlier this week the 12000 - decisions, decisions!)

I've read the specs for both machines and the width of the machines are given with and without embroidery units - but what I can't find is the additonal space you need behind the machine with the embroidery arm open.  Could somebody tell me the full width from the front to the back of both machines including the arm when it's open?

I currently have a sewing cabinet which is 20ins out from the wall - the cabinet itself is about 18ins wide so there is no trouble fitting either machine on it - even though they are longer than the adjustable shelf to lower a machine (which is only 18ins long) so it will just have to sit on top and I will need to get something to raise my seat height.  I have an adjustable chair but it's on it's max at the moment as I am very short - just 5ft.  I'm thinking I may have to fit a larger top on the cabinet to accomodate the large table with the machine (though there may be enough room to support the legs maybe), even if it's just a temporary piece on top, but won't look at that until I've bought it anyway.

The cabinet is on wheels so can easily be moved further out from the wall to accommodate the embroidery unit open, and then pushed back in when it's closed - always assuming I don't have that large temporary piece on top for the additional machine table - I would just like to know how far it would need to come into the room. 

I would have no problem lifting the machine around - I have several vintage machines which weigh just as much and I move them back and fore into the cabinet as desired.