This is possibly a bad answer, and I'm a bit reluctant to implore, generally. BUT...save the money for the machine and get onto a bread making course! The one at Bath's Bertinet Kitchen is a one day, one way ticket to huge baking confidence. You will be able to make all those things you mention, since they are quick and easy: all you lack is the confidence to do them yourself, not the gadget. Gadgets take all the wonderfully therapeutic fun out of baking