I still have my first brand new Bernina purchase in 1982 - 930 Record. I also have a friend's Artista 180. I purchased a 440QE and traded for an 830 Limited Edition because of fantastic sale. Haven't had a lesson on it yet but love it. I do NOT consider myself a quilter yet but sure have had fun making friends and family and a few local fundraiser's happy ... oh yea and a school or 2. I am working on one for myself .... the first one for me since the one my Mamo had me make when I was 16 which I still have 43 years later - sewn on a Kenmore machine using handmade newspaper pattern and scraps of memories from dresses that Mamo made for herself or others in the family. I was the ONLY priviledged granddaughter to have this memory.....guess my MAMO knew my hobby before I did. Anyway, back to Bernina....the only large sewing machine company still family owned??!!....1. As others have stated....service should be considered although I had my 930 serviced this past year for under $30....cleaned, oiled, no problems....lucky as it had not been serviced for 10+ years.... 2. If your daughter is just beginning she won't miss all the extra's we have become accustomed to on the newer machines and a good used inexpensive Bernina or other major brand could be a lifelong companion as mine is... 3. I know my Bernina dealer has many used quality machines (your local dealer might as well) ...my friends Artista has quite a bit more to offer than the 930 and I have seen many on ebay and Craig's list and although I haven't searched this site...probably here as well. I also have a Babylock Evolve Serger and 10 Thread Emb Only as well as a used Janome emb/sewing machine for taking to class at the local dealer....love them all but stick with the Bernina on quality and especially SERVICE in my area and I did NOT purchase my first Bernina from this area. Did I mention earlier Service is important....Good luck on your venture.