I learned on my gramdmother's New Home Treadle machine at 8 years old. Was given a featherweight by an aunt when I was 17. Husband baught me a Singer slant when I ws 25, trading in the featherweight. At 35, my husband baught me a Viking 3560 that I use to this day. Gave my Singer slant to my son when he had children. I picked up a New Home treadle when I was 45 from a lady I helped her move to an apartment. Now if I can find a Featherweight, I will have come full circle!!