There is only so much time in a day. From experience if you like to piece quilts, it is hard to find time to do both.

I had those same fears, then I brought mine home last week - I love it, Love It, LOVE IT!!!

there's a HandiQuilter dealer in Mtn. Home. Would that be too far to go for you? When I found my gently used HQ at a dealer in Jonesboro....told my hubby about it...and he knew how much I wanted one. He told me, "at our age, if you want to do something, you need to go for it." I'm so glad I did. You definitely need a good support system for the things you'll run into...this board is a source of wonderful help, etc. Join a yahoo group for the brand fo your machine, etc. I only do quilts for myself, as I can't stand for hours at a time to do quilts for other. But, that's just wht I wanted it for.....me. Good lucki!!

I have a Pfaff grand quilter and frame, I'm sorry I ever got it. You need to practice a lot to get good at it and I'm
always pressed for time. Trying to talk my husband into doing the quilting when he retires. (LOL)

Peg

I love my 15 inch baily, hope to upgrade soon. would never do quilting without it.

I bought mine in January knowing I would just love it, but I don't and now I wish I had not spent the money on it. I enjoy the cutting and piecing of the tops but am not enjoying the quilting. Once I get the quilt put on the frame, then do some quilting, then have to roll the quilt up some more before I can quilt some more, I just don't enjoy it. It takes A LOT of practice and I do mean A LOT of practice to do pretty work on a quilt. Just something to think about. In fact, I am seriously thinking about selling mine.

Windsong

You are absolutely going to love it!!! I only had the small try out at the show when we bought our Avante and it was enough for me to know I wanted this! Now I would pen all my time playing on her! Enjoy!

I just got a 13" bailey and I love it. Mr. Bailey is wonderful if you have any problems. Anyway enjoy it'

If you love to make quilts AND complete them, then you'll love it! If you are buying a LA because you passionately love to quilt, then it is not a mistake. I bought my longarm on a whim 8 yrs ago, and have not regretted a single minute! Don't know the Nolte, but the Gammill is a wonderful machine. Enjoy! If God has given you a passion and a talent - use it!

Just put some socks on those cold feet and move on. You will love it.