If you already have a good sewing machine I would get the PE-700 emb. only machine. It has a larger hoop, which you will want, 4x4 is very limiting. If not that would be a great starter machine, and small enough to take to classes. Most say only purchase a few spool until you figure out what you want. I bought some cheap thread off amazon for practicing. You will need different types of stabilizers. This place has good prices for stabilizer and free shipping always
http://www.kenssewingcenter.com/
http://www.kenssewingcenter.com/kens...-15_70_74.html