I have RA and find that sometimes quilting makes me feel better and other times much worse! My husband bought me a beautiful Husquavana Viking quilting maching that makes it so easy to glide the fabric through. I also use thick cutting tools but my husband does alot of my cutting for me. I give him my small applique stuff while he's in front of the tv! Don't be freaked out, all you have to do is figure out the best way for you to do the things you want or need to do. Invest in the tools that will help you and you will be able to keep quilting! Good Luck! :P