I have been at the embroidery work for almost 15 years, I started with a Janome and now have a fondness for Brother. I have 2 brothers, an older one and the PR620. I am mostly self taught, what works for some doesn't work for all, so mostly it is a matter of finding out what works for you. I mostly practice on teatowels, especially if I am playing with colors, and they make good gifts if they work out.