My first machine is a $100 Brother from wal-mart. I now have a lower end Janome'. I still use my old Brother for free motion quilting. And I use my Janome' for piecing and binding with a walking foot. My Brother worked very well for piecing as well. But I also had grand dreams and I have wonderful in-laws that wantto help make my dreams come true. My Janome was a wonderful gift. Someday I will have a long arm to quilt on. But someday is still a ways off. So Brother and I make beautiful love filled quilts together. I hope she tries and finds out it works fine without the best expensive machine. Remember they use to use a needle and thread to piece. Many wonderful quilts made by hand over the years. Keep on being supportive. It is a lucky lady that has a husbands support and encouragement.