I also like the idea of a Brother/baby lock/Juki. The lower end brothers are very popular by people who have and use them. I have 3 of them. All a little different. The issue with a vintage machine is that they are not always readily available and unless you have an interest in fixing up a vintage machine you will have to take it someplace. I also think an 11 year old who has been sewing on your machine will hardly appreciate a black headed vintage singer, as sturdy and fine performing as they are.