I have a home sewing/embroidery business and 3 machines and a serger. I also have a little experience and a love for sewing. I think of sewing when I'm on the bike and think of being on my bike when I'm sewing. I enjoy them both equally.

I would recommend going to a store that sells and services the machines, sells fabric, offers classes, and has experienced people working there. They will take you under their wing and enjoy sharing their expertise with you. Any machine you buy should come with a free lesson teaching you the basics of threading, winding a bobbin, changing the needle, use of different stitches and feet, etc. and they will be happy to help you after you get it home and get stumped. Their enthusiasm is contagious. Stay away from department stores that are only interested in selling you a machine.

There are many different brands of sewing machines and each brand offers many different types of machines. To begin sewing I would recommend a basic machine that offers several different stitches and comes with several feet. I would also recommend a free-arm machine (one where the sewing bed slips off so you can slide sleeves and pant legs over the arm for easy sewing). Something like this one is a good machine http://www.babylock.com/sewing/grace/ or if you want a little more this one would give you everything you need unless or until you move on to embroidery or quilting http://www.babylock.com/sewing/crafter-choice/. Remember that the more bells and whistles you have, the more the price goes up.

I would also recommend getting a couple of good beginning sewing books explaining the basics. You can pick these up at the sewing shop too.

Good luck on your sewing. It's a very enjoyable and relaxing hobby. If you have any more questions, feel free to PM me.