Have ordered a sewing machine - finally took the plunge as have been dying to have my own machine. 

It's a Brother BC2100, which most importantly has a drop feed for freestyle stitching (and getting it half-price as an ex-display model left some pennies for more fabric!). There's a sewing machine shop in town where I'm going to enquire about lessons, as it sounds as if some practical help at the start is a good idea. Can't wait to start getting to grips with all those fabulous fabrics - I love the Amy Butler range I saw at CHA (see her website for her funky free sewing patterns), but will also be scouring the many thrift stores in my town for retro and vintage-style fabrics.