Sewing Machine for a child

[yonit]

DD is turning 8 in about a month. She is REALLY into handcrafts right now - she has picked up needlepoint, embroidery and hand sewing (from kids kits) and I have also taught her to knit, which she does quite well.

Anyway, we were at the craft store a few weeks ago and she saw the kids sewing machines and saw that they said "ages 8 and up" on them and asked for one for her birthday.

So, I have been looking at them and for the most part they look like cheap junk that will probably break within a few weeks. For $20-$30 more I can get her a basic machine at Target that will probably last her for a few years.

So, is she old enough for a sewing machine? Is there a "Kid" machine that really does work and would be good for her? Or am I better off getting her a "real" one?

Any advice would be appreciated?

(BTW - I can sew but my sewing machine unfortunately does not work and can't really be repaired -they have already tried 4 times - so just trying her out on my machine is not an option)

[Katie Bugs Mama]

My MIL got dd this machine for her 6th bday. We've been very happy with it. It's a nice size for a kid, easy to use, and seems durable.

[KariM]

I was a little older, 10, when I began machine sewing, but I just used my mom's old Kenmore sewing machine.

As long as she can reach the pedal and the machine at the same time, I'm not sure size of the machine is a big issue. A portable set on a low table should work fine.

[yonit]

Thanks Kara and Katie Bug's Mom. That was kind of what I figured.

I think I am going to get her this one It has got great reviews and I think she can grow with it. And as an ulterior motive I can use it too :

[MidgeMommy]

I used my mom's Brother with 30 stitches and a lot of electronic whingie-ma-doodles from about age 8 on. I never had a problem, and the kids machines really are cheap junk to rip off parents who want to get something age appropriate. It's still a rapidly moving needle attached to a machine that gives it enough pressure to peirce flesh. If she's ready for a kids machine, she's ready for almost any adult machine.

Good call. And ITA on that last part.