i have pfaff embroidery machine---i have used sewing machines for 40+ years--there is no way i could have learned how to do embroidery without 'bearsingrey'method of teaching it is a whole new world--and yes i am afraid- moosie- you can break them --they do not take too kindly to being moved around they are very sensitive---if you can arrange a tutor in your mums home that would i feel have the best outcome-----embroidery is soo much fun