What sewing machine should I buy- beginner?

I'm in the US, but online you can find anything...a Singer or a Brother machine is usually the best one for beginners to start with because they are relatively inexpensive and because they are so popular that there are many websites and/or books that can provide you with info or answers to any questions about the machine as well as sewing in general...stay away from anything with a ton of options or activities that are computerized until you get the hang of threading the machine and practicing the stitches and sewing and then invest the money in a more upgraded model...you don't want to throw money at something you can use to it's full capacity yet...good luck!

I would look for a store that not only carries Husqvarna/Viking but gives classes on your machine.Can do repairs and assist you with your needs. One that can allow you to try the machine see a demo and answer your questions. I purchased this one in the USA ,4 months and I love it. I also have a benefit of taking free classes to familiarize me with my machine. http://www.husqvarnaviking.com/de/8601_8602.htm I have not done a purse however I am sure I would succeed if i was to do one using my machine.

http://www.cet.com/~pennys/faq/smfaq.htm What I want for beginners in sewing: - a machine that doesn't scare you - a machine that isn't balky (cheap new machines are often very balky or need adjustments often and are rarely repairable -- just too frustrating to learn on!) - very good straight stitch - good zigzag (4-5 mm is fine, more than that is gravy) - a method of making buttonholes that makes sense to you - adjustable presser foot pressure (which helps some fabric handling issues) - accessory presser feet that don't cost an arm and a leg (machines that use a "short shank foot" typically handle generic presser feet pretty well. Some brands of machines use proprietary or very expensive presser feet) If the budget stretches far enough: - blindhem and stretch blindhem stitches - triple zigzag (nice for elastic applications) - a couple of decorative stitches (you won't use them nearly as much as you think) - electronic machine because of the needle position control and because the stepper motors give you full "punching force" at slow sewing speeds -- mechanical machines often will stall at slow speeds. Please go to the best sewing machine dealers around and ask them to show you some machines in your price range, *especially* used machines you can afford. You'll get a far better machine buying used than new, and a good dealer is worth their weight in sewing machine needles when you get a machine problem -- often they can talk you through the problem over the phone. While you're trying things out, try a couple of machines (sewing only, not combo sewing-embroidery) over your price limit, just so you can see what the difference in stitch quality and ease of use might be. You may find you want to go for the used Cadillac. Or you might want the new basic Chevy. Might as well try both out. Suggested reading: John Giordano's The Sewing Machine Book (especially for used machines), Carol Ahles' Fine Machine Sewing (especially the first and last few chapters) and Gale Grigg Hazen's Owner's Guide to Sewing Machines, Sergers and Knitting Machines. All of these are likely to be available at your public library. Used brands I'd particularly look for: Elna, Bernina, Viking/Husqvarna, Pfaff, Singer (pre 1970), Juki, Toyota New "bargain brand" I'd probably pick, if new was my choice: Janome (who also does Kenmore).

Barudan! I love mine!!! The service is great when there is an issue. I know 4 people who have them for their businesses and we all love them!! They provide great training too. Good Luck!!!

I live in the US and recommend a Singer or a Brother. Either one is good to learn on and I would also recommend it be a portable one that you can take or carry with you if you wanted. I sometimes take my into work to do some mending and also for general sewing projects.