I don't have the machine,but i did just google it,and for a first machine i think you got a good bargain.It does a lot of stitches,buttonholes etc and the price is good.The same machine at circuit city is 199.00,at amazon.com it's 449.00.So all things considered i think you did good.

The only thing is that by buying at walmart you won't get lessons,but if your gramma already sews she should be able to help you.

Just make sure your read the manual,and when you finish,read it again.Then go thru it step by step,thread it,wind the bobbin,and get your self some scraps and do every stitch it does to make yourself a sample of all it's stitches.Always keep your sample and your manual close to your machine.

HTH
Kathi

Good advice, Kathi! I would add to that: look at the bobbins that came with the machine, take them with you if need be and buy a couple more packs of bobbins - you can never have too many. Also, if a lint brush came with your machine, use it! Sewing machines catch a lot of lint, fuzz, threads, and dust. They sew better if they are regularly cleaned of all that lint. If you didn't get a brush with the machine, get a cheap 1" brush from the paint store and keep it only for your machine.

Read your manual carefully for any maintenance that needs to be done. And ask around to find a sewing machine repair guy/gal as your machine will probably need a tune-up once a year to keep running well. Learn how to take out the bobbin and clean all around and under the bobbin case or area that holds the bobbin - that area generates a lot of lint.

Have fun! What, you thought I was going to say sewing was a lot of drudge work? Never!!

Teresa

There are all kinds of wonderful books and videos available to help you learn sewing terminology, methods, etc.. Check them out of the library before you buy, to see which ones you like best.

And there are tons of information for free on the internet. The helpful link at the bottom of this post explains how to maneuver fabric through the sewing machine on straight and curved seams. Very helpful.

Other websites with free info:

The Home Sewing Association

http://www.sewing.org/enthusiast/enthusiast.html

More info at Threads Magazine, a list of Start to Sew links:

http://www.taunton.com/store/pages/nmt060_sewing_rev.asp

Pattern Review - reviews of patterns, books, and sewing machines from sewers just like you:

http://sewing.patternreview.com/

Google is your friend. Just search for whatever you are interested in sewing, such as "how to sew curtains" "free sew pattern drapes"

Include the words "free sew pattern" in your search, and youÂll find all kinds of fun stuff.

CMC

Here is a link that might be useful: Driver's Ed for Sewing Machines (Threads Magazine) PDF

I'm trying to make a baby blanket and don't know how to stitch the edges of the satin binding. i really need to see a video or a picture on how to put the binding together. thanks

Follow the package directions and you will do okay. Practice first with a small amount of binding and scrap fabric.

Here's an online tutorial that might help with the blanket binding.

CMC

Here is a link that might be useful: Tutorial: How to Apply Satin Binding to a Baby Quilt