Check out you tube videos and google the topic you want to try out with the machine. I had thought long and hard about buying a used machine or one from the Internet as I assumed that using an embroidery machine would be complicated. So I bought a brand new Horizon 120000 at a sewing shop 45 min away. Was I ever surprised that after watching free videos and reading books that I was able to do a rather complex design with multiple thread changes. I have yet to take a class. Just not sure what I would get out of them. Maybe if I had the digitizing software I would want a class but for now, I am happy happy happy. If I had to do it again knowing what I know now, I would have purchased a used machine.