Thanks, everyone for all the info. I think I will get her the Kenmore model #16231, which is a Janome. I've been looking for it on-sale, but so far it's list price. I can also buy the exact machine under the Janome name, but have to still pursue this option. My granddaughter is 16 and already made a couple things on a friend's machine. If I can get her a machine for $200-250 that's okay. Anything I've seen for under $200 sounds like a thrashing machine when it sews. I am also going to call our local Viking shop to see if they have any 2nd hand machines. We used to be able to buy a good starter machine for $150. My original Singer, bought in 1962, cost $55 and nearly broke us.