Sewing Machine Disaster!

So, I've finally done it! I braved my way upstairs and took the sewing machine out of it's wrapping, which had gathered dust since my future mother-in-law had given it to me last year.

Having given up on finding the instruction booklet, I found an online copy and went about threading. I had to take the covers off, but I understand the principle behind that now.

The actual problem was the sewing. The pedal either didn't react at all or the needle sped faster than Speedy Gonzales on drugs. I also got lots of knots and ripped thread, ending in what you see below: