I have purchased two new machines and hated both of them. I keep going back to my vintage machines. When you turn them off, they don't reset. When I decide to sew, I want to sit down and start sewing -- I do not want to have to reset my machine. My first purchased machine when I wanted to sew again was a 301A, for which I paid $75 at a repair shop.

I have nothing against vintage machines. I have a lot of them. But to think when you want to sew just hop on over to the local thrift store and pick up one in good working order for a good price has just not been my experience. Sometimes there is one and sometimes it is in good working order meaning it can be serviced to sew well either by me or someone else. Sometimes it is a rusted pile of crap. So,times it is easier and faster to eat a new one. Mechanical newer machines keep their settings. I have a few of those too.

Well, she's 11? Interests are so varied at that age, and beyond, that I would not consider investing in a sewing machine of any value---- vintage, least of all....maintenance on those is required.
if anything..there is that little kittie or some such sewing machine designed for children-that would be my choice. When she visits you, let her still "learn" on your real machine, or bring along "her own" and if as she matures, and still shows an interest, then a better investment would be justified. Jmho

My choice would be the Janome Jem.

I agree that an older Singer would be a great machine. I have laughingly said that if I had a house fire, my 1958 401A would be the first item I'd rescue.

When I was a 11, we had a house fire. My mom rescued her featherweight and the phone book. When the fire died out that's all we had EXCEPT kind neighbors.

As to which machine to buy for an 11-year-old. I agree with the Janome Jem.

i would avoid a "toy" machine.

and consider something that is relatively portable..

other than that, i don' t know what is currently available.

I have a Janome Gem that I take as my travel machine that could be a good fit. It is small and portable, has the basics and is a mechanical machine.

I would not put any money into a "childs" machine. Usually they are chain stitch, which ravels easily. They are too easy to get out of time and therefore frustrate the young sewer. I was lucky, I have a toy machine but I was able to quickly move onto my mother's machine. The toy now decorates my sewing room.

Thanks everyone for your input! I still haven't decided, but really want adjustable speed for her. Her interests do change a lot, so I need to consider that and how much I want to spend. She learned on my Featherweight.

Barb