sewing machine for kids

[sprout]

My dd1 (age 7 1/2) is nagging me for a sewing machine. I had hoped to find one of the old-fashioned kind where you turn a handle at the side, which is what I learned on, but they don't seem to exist any more. I'm a bit wary of the ones sold for kids - I have memories of chain-stitch ones not working at all. But the thought of letting her loose with a "proper" electric one, even if designed for kids, is scary. Any suggestions, recommendations or warnings? Thanks.

[rantinghousewife]

You can buy the old fashioned kind for about 15 quid on ebay, I wouldn't bother with a childs sewing machine, they are always a bit plasticky and IIRC wobbly, which I think is a bit dangerous when you consider that it has a needle on it. Have a look in the local paper too, occasionally you see them advertised.

[MakemineaGandT]

Don't bother with a child's one - they never work very well - just supervise her on your big one! As a child I got very frustrated with my child's machine and it put me off learning to sew for a while - I'd have been better off going straight to the big one.

[sprout]

Thanks for the tips. I suppose I'll have to take the plunge and pray we don't get any needles in fingers... Good to know I've saved myself some more pink plastic !