Would this be a good machine for a beginner?

This is a good machine for a beginner, in my opinion. It's the one I started on four years ago. (and still use today!) Personally, I think the Brother CS6000i is a better deal for just about $30 more. It comes with a few more options that are useful that this model lacks.

does this machine automatically set or tell you what the tension should be set at?

Tension settings are never "one size fits all". And at this price you do NOT get automatic tensioning. The only way you know what works, is to test it on scraps of material before you sew on your project. If the machine is not threaded correctly, or the bobbin is in wrong, you will have problems that not even resetting the tension will help. Learn to thread these new Brothers correctly, or you'll have problems and it will seem like the tension is off. The machine will come set at usually 4, and that is for medium weight cotton fabrics. From there on, you need to learn how to set the tension.

Why does the title say 87 built in stitches if there are only 50 built in stitches ? I feel ripped off -__-

There are 50 stitches, but by changing length and width you can make 87 different options.

Can it sew denim or velvet?

Yes....it can definitely sew denim on the correct setting. I haven't sewn velvet but it has various settings to sew thicker materials. I am currently sewing outdoor cushions and it is handling the fabric very well. I've also sewn vinyl and it did a great job.

ASIN	B08BGB5GPZ
Assembly required	No
Batteries required	No
Best Sellers Rank	#22,927 in Arts, Crafts & Sewing ( See Top 100 in Arts, Crafts & Sewing ) #68 in Sewing Machines
Care instructions	Hand Wash
Included Components	sewing machine and accessories
Item Weight	10.5 pounds
Item model number	CS5055
Manufacturer	Brother International Corp
Number of pieces	1
Product Dimensions	16.26 x 6.65 x 12.21 inches
Warranty Description	25 year limited., Free phone and technical support for the life of the product.

Brother CS5055 Computerized Sewing Machine, 60 Built-in Stitches, LCD Display, 7 Included Feet, White

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