| I agree that buying from a good dealer that can provide lessons would be the best option. Most local dealers also have trade-in policies that give you 100% of the cost of your machine towards an upgraded model for anywhere from 60 days to one year, if you find yourself getting more into sewing than you originally thought ;-) Ask up front and get the store's policy in writing if you go that route. Another option, especially if you don't have any dealers close by, is one of the Kenmore machines at Sears, which are made by Janome. These get very good reviews from sewing instructors and other users, and provide excellent value for the money. I have included a link to a model at the top of your range that has a lot of features. However, if your daughter plans on sewing a lot of knit fabrics, you might be better off to go with a cheaper sewing machine and budget for a serger or cover stitch machine also down the road. A cover stitch is used to make the hems you are used to seeing on t-shirts etc. http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_02019110000P?vName=Appliances&cName=Garment+Care&sName=Computerized http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_02016677000P?mv=rr Several makers have just brought out their new models which might give you the opportunity to get a great deal on a discontinued floor model or a machine that has been traded in for the new version. Also, don't be afraid to ask for a discount, or to have some additional feet thrown in. If you are lucky enough to have several dealers within reasonable travel distance, shop around. I found a huge difference in prices from the different stores for identical machines. I was able to get a brand new Bernina from one dealer for less than I was quoted for a demo machine from another. Your daughter is a lucky young lady and you should be able to get her a great machine well within your budget :-) | 
