I agree with the others. There's not much more frustrating for a child that is learning than to have less than adequate tools. That's not too say that this machine this is not good, because I don't really know. But I think it would be better to get a good quality used machine that works well, so it will do a good job as they get better and need a "bigger" machine. Also don't forget good scissors . They are so lucky to have you to help them!

Well I would like to kno wif the Ikea in Australia would be selling that as I would consider buying it for my granddaughter to learn to sew. It is true that one should not look at the plastic and be turned away...it is what is on the inside that really counts. I will like to hear if you like it if you get it.

Jacquie, I have no idea of the quality of the machine. I didn't even know that Ikea sold them. According to their website my local store has about 6 of them in stock. If you would like I could get it for you and ship it to you.Just let me know.

Pat

Ikea also sells a compter table that I use as a sewing and ironing table. I bought the units that put together can wrap a corner. Plenty of room for my sewing maching and embroidery machine and ironing. Very inexpensive.

I can tell you this Don't ever buy a machine with the Presserfoot lift lever under/inside the arm area! I did and its always in the way and your always hitting it! as you turn fabric!!

Looks like a kid's machine to me!

I looked one over & I did not much like it. I bought the model up from it. It was a better machine & price.

http://www.hancockfabrics.com/Janome-3128-Sewing-Machine-Standard-Sewing-Machines_stcVVproductId81913199VVcatId539684VVview prod.htm

I had to adjust to this new Presserfoot Position on my latest machines. I could see the logic in their positioning. The lever is far less likely to be damaged as it is hidden within the sewing machine's own protective arm. Rather than just jutting out where anything could happen when it hits something hard and not giving in.

I am always amazed how limiting people's eye or opinion to offered products to what the product "looks" like. I worry far more about the innards and stitch quality rather than superficial "looks." I think this limiting prejudice spills out over into other parts of ones' own life.

I have several machines and the one I take to classes is a Brother rx 7700 (I think the letters are right-The number is for sure) It is a fantastic light weight machine. It is about $170. from Costco and if you are going to start a young quilter, it has every foot you need for quilting (including the walking foot), applique, and general sewing and makes a button hole the size your button is with a special foot. It isn't as cheap as the Ikea but a great inexpensive machine.
Robin

Jacquie, I'd like to make a couple of comments to you. I teach sewing and quilting, both, and as of today, knitting, in my home. Back in 2008 we had a 7 yr old great granddaughter living with us for a year. We bought her a Janome Sew Mini for Christmas, and after one apron, it sounded like a train roaring through. I was not impressed with it at all. I have a vintage New Home, and a Brother CS600i which I let me students use. (I keep my Pfaff 7570 for myself). I am very impressed with the Brother. When I talked to a local quilt shop's sewing machine mechanic, I discussed machines with him. His comments were, to stay away from all new Singers. His best recommendations were Brother and Baby Lock. He said they are the best being built now, and have the least amount of problems. For your info, I got both of my student machines on line from Ken's Sewing in Muscle Shoals, AL. I have been very pleased with his service. My Brother was a Refurbished machine, and I got it for $125, instead of the usual $175 or $200. These are just some thoughts that might help you. I, too, love teaching kids to sew, but I would get them a fairly good machine that won't break down in a few weeks, like our Janome Sew Mini did.

Thank you for being such a good neighbor. I tend to agree with the others who think a "real" machine would be better. I bought a toy one for my DGD when she was about 5 and it almost drove me mad! I finally threw that thing out the door and bought a Brother for something like $89. She's still using it and she's 15.