Before I bought my longarm, I took the class on the Handiquilter Avante & Prostitcher and was able to quilt a full size quilt in about 5 hours. Loading was a breeze because she had the "Red Snappers". Well, long story short, I purchased a used HQ 16 with Prostitcher and I love it. I also bought the "Red Snappers" and they make loading a quilt fast and easy. My suggestion to you is take the class. Then if you don't want to buy one, continue to rent the LQS machine.
Sandy