Beginner's sewing machine recommendation

[Suedonim]

Anyone like to recommend a sewing machine for a novice stitcher? 21yo dd would like one for Xmas to make fancy dress clothes etc. What would you suggest? She's left-handed, btw, not sure if that makes a difference? Also a useful book to get her started would be appreciated. TIA.

Bump

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Aw, c'mon!

quite a few places have some nice janomes for under £100. i was at Dunelm mill the other day and they had 2 models under £100. I would stick to the better brand names if you can.

Just something with straight and zigzag and maybe a buttonhole.

£100 tops.

Look on Ebay for new machines. There are loads.

machine wise, avoid makes like brother, toyota, go for a janome or husqvarna (the huskystar brand is also good value for money)

books wise, try bend the rules sewing

Thanks. I have a Janome, though it's getting on a bit now, more than 20yo, I think. I'll probably get a machine from John Lewis as I mainly live abroad so can't eBay and haven't time to shop around. £100 tops sounds good, hehe!