Everything you see is included, and this machine is very easy/straightforward to use. This was my very first machine, so I can't speak on how good/bad compared to other machines. However, I can speak on this machine, and how well it worked for me. Assembly was very simple, and laid out clearly in the instructions. Using the machine was more difficult to follow the directions on the sheet, but I was able to get it working. I would highly recommend reading everything all the way through before starting to use it. The yarn it comes with isn't the best quality, but it's the perfect amount to use to practice with and get the hang of the machine. I would say that this machine is a great value for the money, due to all the freebies it comes with and the quality of the machine itself. It's quiet and spins smoothly....