Sewing machine for an 8 year old?

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I was browsing the Christmas present thread for ideas for DD (8 in January) and saw a sewing machine. A brilliant idea, I thought, for DD, who loves crafts and sewing. She's patient too and would persevere with it.

So, does anyone have any recommendations for a simple, mini one that would be suitable?

I saw this which looks like it fits the bill, but I freely admit that I know nothing about these things but am quite keen to learn with her. It could be useful...

I've got my dds the red one from John Lewis to share. I know nothing, but dd1 has used a machine at school, so I'm hoping she'll be able to sort it out! My two are older than 8 though.

Hi Janeite, yes I think it was your post that I saw. Such a fab idea, I'm sure DD will love it. As long as it's simple enough for her (and me) to use. I've just seen the JL one, but it's out of stock now, annoyingly.

Glad to be of inspiration! Hopefully somebody will be along later who actually can be of practical use.

Thanks!

I'm selling one that I used just once to get me out of trouble for an order if you are interested. It's a full size Brother. I am near the Dartford Crossing Kent side if you are interested, it needs collecting, not posting...too heavy.

Hmm, tempting TisTheSeason, but it might be too difficult for me her. And actually, I'm in Devon, so not handy. Good luck in rehoming it though, it sounds great. Ebay?

It's too heavy IMO to post. Was hoping someone might have it that could pay and collect it in one hit. Only want £65 for it and it was £80 'new'.
Maybe I'll put it in the local rag...

The full sized ones are not complicated or any different to use than a mini size, though there are complicated machines on the market. Price is often relative though and you wouldn't(I don't think)be spending upwards of £200 on a sewing machine for an 8yo novice. I hope you find what you(and Dd)are looking for. Good luck!

Erm, no, I wouldn't! I'm looking for a simple, mini one that does basic stitches for me DD. Good luck with selling your machine. If I was nearer I'd be interested.

If you are serious about getting into sewing, look at full size machines. They are often well under £100 and I found that I struggled(using a friends)with the size of a mini. Some things you want to machine are too big to get through the arch. I stitched some curtains last week and wouldn't have got them through on a mini ~ and they were not long ones.
Have a look in HobbyCraft if you have one near you.

Ah, thanks for that. Will research further...