4qt ice creamer maker has to be put together. Very easy. Some ice cream should be pre cold before making by putting in fridge. U need cream sugar half and half and vanilla to start then add what flavor u like. The book has all kinds of recipes. Once u put together machine u add canister put in mixing paddle ,put on lid and motor top into wooden bucket. Make sure your mixing paddle shaft is inserted in hole in bottom. Then turn clockwise. Then u use ice and rock salt on side of canister to top ofl canister.1 to 2 cups salt is ok.Then plug in. Turn on. As the canister turn it churns mixture. If canister does not turn stop. Make sure all parts are in line with each other and restart. Once ice melts down 2 or 3 inches add more ice into canister. Run 45 min. Mix ice and salt every 15 min.. complete time and you have ice cream. Home yourself. Put in separate container to freeze.