This is my vote, too. I have 7, 8, 10 & 11 year old granddaughters - they all use this - I love the simplicity and reliability.

Well, the thing is ordered. I will take a look at it when it comes and then make a decision. BTW, the one I ordered also has an adapter and 'presumably' can be used for lightweight projects. I don't think she or her household is ready for a 'real' machine. If we lived closer, maybe. I checked with their local Fabricland (equivalent of Joann) and they do not have any classes at this time. Maybe in summer.

I agree, a real machine. If you want her to learn and have the full experience, I would start with a Singer that goes on sale at Jo Ann's. During the Christmas season, you can get a good deal, especially using their coupons. As far as projects, in Home Ec. (you can tell how old I am - HA), an apron was the first thing we made. Also, flannel pajama bottoms, a sewing machine cover, and pillowcases are what I started with my granddaughter many years ago.

I wouldn't purchase anything less than what you have in your Jem? Janome machines are great machines with a good track record. If you purchase the one shown on your posting, it will be a frustration. This machine is cute, but not a machine for serious sewing. It sounds like your GD is wanting to be a serious sewist. Perhaps she thought that asking for a "grown up" machine would be too expensive. A quilt guild member would be more than happy to give your GD lessons on a machine like this one.. https://www.kenssewingcenter.com/jan...g-machine.html ....remember, this is an investment in her life long hobby that she will reap many happy hours of creating. I will gladly send her fabric if you will PM me. Pillowcases are a great start along with the simple tote bag. Buy her a good "grown up" machine.

There are a lot of good beginner sewing books just for kids, I would add one of those to go with the machine or see if mom & dad would purchase it. I also have a lot of good memories learning from my grandma and love the idea of a sewing weekend every month or two...that will be the biggest gift of all..

Here are some ideas for the books: https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_s...=2XHEMHBQ4PC6D

Just a word of warning, I had one of those machines and it was terrible. Couldn't keep tension rifht and it chain stitches were loose and came out so easy.

I totally agree with buying a real inexpensive machine and investing in a beginner sewing class and joining a 4-H group. I started at 10 in 4-H and mom bought me a 1940 Singer 128 (which I still have). My machine was older than any of the other girls machines and weighed a ton (Bentwood cover) and had a shuttle bobbin but it could sew circles around the newer machines. I would look at the EverSewn Sparrow, the Sparrow 15 is a basic machine and is priced at $149.00 on Amazon and has good reviews.

https://www.quiltersreview.com/hello...wing-machines/
I bought the green colored Sewing Pretty with Miss Kitty about five years ago. It was $99 at that time. It is made by Janome and really a great little machine to sew with. I bought mine from Allbrands Sewing company, online. I see that Target and other places sell them too.

We are also giving our 7 year old Grandaughter a sewing machine for Christmas and went with the Brother XR3340 from Costco with the hope that Costco’s return policy would come to the rescue if the machine was unacceptable or defective. She has a huge advantage however, as another Grandma lives close by and is teaching her whenever she provides childcare. So far she has made a patchwork pillow, pillowcase, and a doll quilt that used the birthing method to finish. The Skype idea sounds good, especially when it’s time to thread the machine for the first time. Speed control would be a major feature on the new machine with a bit of enforcement from Mom and Dad.

Best of luck - it’s exciting to see a Grandchild excited about sewing isn’t it?

I just went through this last Christmas with my 10 year old niece. She asked for a sewing machine for Christmas "so I can be like Auntie." I agree with many of the responses that at her age she is ready for an adult machine.
I live 4 hours from them, but during one of her school vacations I arranged to visit a few days for "lessons". I cut and put together a few projects at home and brought them with me for us to make. A pillowcase, 4 inch square blocks which we sewed I to a pillow, and a place mat. She was just thrilled. She has also taken lessons at Joann's. Also it was recommended that they seek out a local quilt group who could provide instructions. Hope these are helpful tips. These young girls are the future of keeping quilting alive and thriving.