I think the "look commercial thing" depends for me. I want my garment sewing to look very high end (no unfinished seams, etc. that scream "home-made") and I use a serger, french seams, etc. to make sure that happens.
Quilts and wall hangings are a different kettle of fish for me. I think good stitching will always be a winner (no matter what the purpose). I have always required a high level of craftsmanship from myself.
There are a lot of people who think telling someone their sewing looks as good as "store bought" is a complement because they have only been expose to very mediocre seamstresses and were really repelled by the product. My Mom is one of these people. I just recognize the sentiment and understand what she's trying to tell me.