I have to agree with you. The last time I went to a quilt show I was disappointed that I didn't see more handquilted items. I know everyone is pressed for time --- I was feeling the pressure, too. "Gotta make more --- Hurry up -- everyone and their dog wants a quilt!" I put the brakes on that. I put my sewing machine away and started doing hand work. I have 2 projects under way now - both are English Paper Piecing and both will be hand quilted -- and I will be keeping both of them for myself - well...one for me, one for my hubby. That decision relieved a lot of stress I had put on myself. I finally figured it out --- A. the longer the project takes - the less fabric I have to buy (that helps my budget) -- B. the longer I get to enjoy the project -- C. the more satisfied I am with the project and D. the more precious the quilt will be cuz I didn't crank them out like an assembly line. LOL And the final question for myself was "Just what is the big hurry anyway?" I should have many years to develop the skills that you have and I'm looking forward to it. I think I was on my way to 'burn out' if I hadn't made the decision to change my ways.