Another newbie!

[readingmezzo.livejournal.com]

Hey y'all! I am brand new to lj and to the crafty world, although I've been lurking around this community for awhile now. It has inspired me to release my creative side! The things I see on here are fantabulous. Just amazing.

I have a few questions I was hoping to get some help with (yes, I searched the faq/memories section!):

1) I am looking into buying a sewing machine. Many of the memories/faqs say to go to a thrift store or such. Yay! Though as a first time sewing machine buyer and a craft newbie, what should I be looking for? How do I know it's still a quality machine? Any tips?

2) I'm going to make tshirt pillows for some friends. I've read that you should back the shirt with something to make it not stretchy. What exactly am I looking for (that way I can go to Michaels and not look completely stupid). In addition, is it better to buy a premade pillow or to stuff my own?

I'm starting on my christmas gifts (rice bags, record bowls, pillows, some decoupaged stuff). This community rocks! Thanks in advance.

Steph