I purchased a Janome 4623 for my 12 yr. old granddaughter for Christmas last year. It was apx. $239 which may seem high, however, it is an easy machine for them to learn to use AND it has some decorative stitches and other features for more advanced sewing down the road. She completed a small quilt and pillow and very quickly learned how to wind a bobbin, thread the needle, and use the needle up/needle down function. I had to puchase a walking foot separately, but it was well worth the $30. This is a great machine, very portable, very sturdy, and very easy to use.