The Hello Kitty machine is a Janome Gem just with a different case. I've sewn on it for a while just to make sure it worked fine and have had no problems. I have a Gem myself and they are identical. I am giving the Hello Kitty to my Grandaughter who is 6-1/2. When she gets old if still interested she can pass this one on to her little sister and she can take over her Dad's Janome MC4000. The only features I prefer for her from the bigger machine is the drop in bobbin and needle up/down button. That would make her sewing easier, but for now she can learn on the kitty.