Originally Posted by sparkys_mom
Originally Posted by Jingle
I don't know about the basic machines, depends a lot on what they may be doing. I would get them new machines, they may be more eager to learn with new machines.
I heard the Brothers are better than the new Singers.
I love my Brother cs6000i - I've had it for three years and it is great. Lightweight, lots of stitches, a walking foot and FM quilting foot. I've "grown up" now and just purchased a Janome Horizon but will keep the Brother for classes.
Ditto to the above. As well, it has a speed regulator which I feel is a good device for young learners if your nieces are fairly young? It would give them more control than the older models which rely on foot pressure only. The ease of lifting and setting up because of the lightweight is another plus. I bought mine through Amazon and it came with a few quilting extras like a Perspex extension flat bed, a walking foot and a few others. I am very happy - great value for money for a beginner.