Originally Posted by athomenow
I'd go on ebay, look for a good seller, buy an older Viking or name brand machine. I don't trust the Walmart machines because I got burned on a Brother serger. It's still in the closet if anyone wants it! I bought a Viking I could afford when I started sewing and it's a wonderful machine that I've had for over 20 years. Never had it in the shop. They are workhorses. They're just my preference and others have theirs. Try out the one you think you want. You'll know!
I've seen older Vikings that are going strong but I have one five years old and I find my self using it less and less and I have to have it serviced often. I just bought a Juki, I've only had it a few days but so far it has been a dream come true, but it was close to $1000.
I'd start with the Brother, I have a friend who used one like that for sewing classes because it is so light weight. It's a sweet little machine. If she gets really into it and wants something later, it would be a good graduation present .