I have had the Brother 1500 for years and it is easy to use. It requires very little maintenance. Keep the dust cleaned from around the bobbin and around the needle area. Oil it regularly and that's all you have to do. I never even take mine in for a yearly maintenance like I do some of my other machines. It is a great sewing machine. I hope she enjoys it as much as I do mine. Thank you for your service, and have a Merry Christmas!