Hi I have sewed since taking my first home ec class way back when. My first sewing machine was purchased in 1971 when I was 16 from money I made babysitting. It was a Penncrest made by JCPenny's. I still have it and love it to death. I have more modern machines but will never stop using my old war horse. I started quilting when I was preganant with my 28 year old son. I have never stopped.