She needs something on which it will be a pleasure to sew. I bought IKEA's little machine. I gave it away. I think the only use for such a machine would be to patch an occasional open seam in garments and such. Then I bought the $50.00 Janome. Same thing. That thing weighs only 5 pounds, but is not fun to use. An old Featherweight in good condition would be ideal. No zig-zag, but they sew so nicely and are so quiet. And soooo cute!