Sewing

DD needs a snowman costume for December 18. That in itself is not a problem, I could buy it - or I could grab the opportunity to finally learn how to sew. From what I hear on the InterWebs, it will come in handy in primary school ... My mother unfortunately never really taught me, and it wasn't taught at school, so what I am looking for is advice on what sewing machine to get, basic supplies, and, most importantly, a good intro book. By intro book, I mean "Sewing for Dummies with Two Left Hands and No Physical Intelligence" - that level. Since I only plan to do the bare minimum required for basic kids' costumes, I was thinking of getting a cheap machine like this or this. Any help gratefully received!

(cross-posted to plan_survive and perceval)