Before I bought my machine, I took a sewing class where they provided an electronic Brother machine (not this one, one of the high end ones, don't remember which), and I fell in love with how easy it was to use, and also all the buttons to cut the thread, to thread the needle, to backstitch, etc.). I knew right then, that I'd be buying a Brother machine. Since I could not afford the same model I had in my class, the sales person recommended the Innovis 900d, I knew I wanted an electronic machine, so this machine had this, and I could afford it. Well I've had it for 2 years now, and it's wonderful. On one particular project, I had a lot of layers to sew through, and was nervous that I could break my machine, but no, it did so well. I LOVE my machine. I have only tried the embroidery once, never did this before, (I did have a class to learn how to use the machine, but at that time, I was not interested in embroidery and didn't listen much) and my first time, I got it right immediately just with the easy instructions in the manual. It was really easy. Now I've started making bags, and designed my logo, and I can't wait to try importing my logo into the machine, with the USB, if all goes well, I won't have to pay to have custom labels made, I will be able to do my own. I HIGHLY recommend this machine, it's easy to operate. Two things I hate about sewing, is needle threading, and making buttonholes (and sewing buttons). With this machine, it's so easy, no hassle. When I'm sewing, and it beeps and a message appears to let me know the bobbin is ending, it's really easy to make another one, and put it back...I could go on and on, and I haven't even used all the features yet, but everytime I try something new, it's always easy and fun. The manual is also very well done, easy to understand step by step instructions. I'll stop here... hoping I convinced you that you won't regret buying this machine.