I don't know exactly what constitutes a "newbie", but I am sure I qualify compared to many on here. I have been trying to figure this machine out for a year now and I fear Mastery is unobtainable. I started woodworking when I was about 7 under the expert tutelage of my Grandfather (no power tools allowed). I learned a lot of design from my Father who is a draftsman by trade. I have always enjoyed mixing up ideas and mediums in my woodworking, such as metal with wood or stretching the limits of what is capable with wood. Most of my work is one-offs that I will never duplicate. I attended college with a major in Mortuary science and tried my hand at working in a funeral home, but it bored me to no end. Joined the Army for the adventure and found I really liked the outdoor aspect of the Infantry and the excitement of the training and deployments (although not always fun). It also allowed me to travel a lot and see different woodworking techniques around the world. After retirement I was lucky enough to use my passion for woodworking and knowledge of carpentry/metal working/etc to get a job as a woodworker/carpenter for the Army. The biggest reason The CW intrigued me was the ability to quickly do what I was previously doing with hand carving and scroll saw. The biggest drawback for me is my limited (okay, non-existent) knowledge of computers and tech stuff. My neighbor cannot understand my obsession with wood and I cannot understand his obsession and patience working on cars. Cars repair and restoration seems tedious to me, however I have been known to stare at a piece of wood, studying the grain patterns for several hours before making the first cut. Hopefully, one day I will understand this machine better. Thank goodness for the wealth and breadth of knowledge that is so quickly shared on this site. Without it, I would have reverted back to my old ways long ago. Happy carving!!