Thanks, ladies. No stitch regulator - probably didn't exist when I got my machine over 20 years ago. As long as it keeps working, just can't justify getting a better one.
I'll try to block of wood -great idea! And more patience. She is so eager and this must be a positive experience or she won't stick with it.
Mom didn't have a sewing machine when I was growing up - she taught us to sew by hand. Bless her heart for all of those gathered skirts she made us!