I have to agree with Kay. I have sewn for many many years. You do not need a really expensive machine to make clothing, but you will want one that has a good button hole attachment. That one function is worth it's weight in gold when you are starting to sew. Go to a local shop that sells machines..tell them what you want to do and your price range. They will allow you to sew on suitable machines and give you some tips on how to use it. Choose one you like to sew on and try out more than one. You can get a great machine for minimum money if you are willing to take a used one from a shop, or you can get a new one.