I have had a sewing machine most of my adult life, but could only sew a straight line. I have always wanted to make my own clothes, so I recently bought a new seeing machine and serger. The serger scared the heck out of me, but after having it for the past month and making four dresses, a t- shirt and a quilted table runner, I wonder why I didn't get one years ago. The Brother 1034d is easy to thread, understand and use. I'm thrilled with it, and see a lot more sewing in my future.