I teach sewing at a store. When the kids want to learn how to sew, and all they have are the beginner machines it is more discouraging than helpful. These machines sew only light cotton fabric successfully. Only one (I don't remember the make) was able to sew actual clothes. Most of the time the machines jam or are not strong enough to pull the heavier fabric through. I advise my students to use a full size machine. I would like the experience to be a positive one rather than a frustrating one.