Thank you for your help. I think the hoop size will be fine since she is a beginner and will probably do towels, onesies, etc. I found it for $219, free shipping. It is factory refurbished so I called Brother and they said it is just like new. And the warranty is the same as a brand new one. It will come packed just like a new one. Only diff is the box will have a sticker that says factory refurbished. I am going to order it and give it to her for xmas. It is from overstock.com. They have several. An extended 3 year warranty is only $40 so I am going to add that. I am surprised that I can get an computerized embroidery machine for that price. It even has the auto threader!