About 14 months ago my husband bought a Brother Runway and showed me the basics. I had never used a sewing machine before that. Since then I have sewn so many different things.
Here are some of the items I learned how to sew in that past year. I never took sewing lessons but watched and read a lot of tutorials online.
http://www.pinterest.com/chrisl2013/chris-crafts/
I found this machine very easy to use too.
Having just gotten my first YT, I am looking forward to trying my hand at some items that Mr. Beans would need.
Keep us posted on what you decide on.