Not sure if this is the right place to post this. What kind of stand mixer does everyone use to make their buttercream icing, ect ? My Kitchen Aid stand mixer just broke! It's a red, 5 quart mixer. I paid over $300 for it on amazon. It's not even 3 years old & it's already broke. I wasn't paying attention (in a rush trying to make some buttercream) & forgot to lock the bowl in... the bowl started spinning around & then before I knew it, the paddle wouldn't spin anymore. It's like jammed or something. The motor sounds like it's running, but it won't spin. Anyone ever have this problem? Can I hire someone to fix it (if it can be fixed)? I hate to just throw it away. I'm going to have to buy a new one in the mean time because I have cakes to make this week. I saw a Hamilton Beach one at WalMart for only $129, I may get that one since it is cheaper & rated good.

Personally, I like my 7 qt Cuisinart.  I got it about 2 years ago and love it!  I'd always had KitchenAid before that and like both machines, but the Cuisinart had a 5 yr warranty on it and was less expensive than getting the 7 qt KitchenAid.  I'd also heard to many horror stories about the newer KitchenAids that I picked the Cuisinart.  Wouldn't trad it for anything.  My older KitchenAid (about 15 years old or so) still works but is only a 4-5 qt; it is used as a backup.  I do believe, however, that KitchenAid can repair your mixer, just don't know what it would cost in money and time.  Check their website and you should find something there about it.  Best of luck!

I'm going for a Viking when my KA craps out.  They are $$$ but worth it.