Take some scrap fabric with you to the store. Ask to sew on that. Most all are dealers have machines set up for demos, but they have fabric with a lot of sizing and it alway sews beautiful. If you mostly use cottons, take those scraps with you. Ask such questions as how do I sew a straigh 1/4" seam??? How many extra feet come with the machine???? What kind of thread should I use??? What kind of needles do I use for ______??? Let the salesperson demo, then ask if you might sew. Don't be shy or imtimidated!!!!!