WOw, most of you started way younger than I did. Ofcourse I did 1 sewing project in high school but had to use a neighbors machine and the one at school. My mom did not sew. I bought my first machine at Sears--it is a Kenmore when I was 50.....almost 6 years ago. I now have a Brother 650Q that I use when I travel. The Kenmore stays home and I use it when I am home for visits. I quilt only, do not sew clothes.