High end machines are nice, but quite honestly you only need a machine with straight stitch capabilities to successfully complete a quilt. I am sewing on a Brother Embroidery\Sewing machine I only paid $400.00. This is my third sewing machine. It is a great, easy to operate machine. Since she is just beginner I would encourage her to begin with a simple, easy to operate machine. Technology is great, but sometimes with high tech comes high frustration.