the cost of a machine aside (used $50 up to crazy numbers!), you can make your first quilt pretty cheap. Considering you will probably keep it yourself and it is a learning experience, use fabric you have or can get cheap - sheets, old cotton blouses etc. Use a flannel/thin fleece blanket for the batting backing ($5 at target). What you do need to purchase new would be a mat, ruler, rotary cutter and scissors. a 50% coupon at Joanns is a good deal. I would also get a seam ripper - we all need that! - a neutral thread (I like a taupe or grey), a small ruler (like a hem gauge) pins and needles. This would be the basics that would help the most. Then you can keep adding things along the way. I am also assuming you already have an iron - almost as important as the sewing machine!!! The 2 most critical components don't cost anything, but are often the most difficult. You need to develop patience and learn to not be overcritical of your work. Something many of us continue to work on daily.