I can relate totally. I had several tops pieced but never could bring myself to quilt them. I know of several long-armers in the area but I had no clue what they charge. Finally, I just decided to try them...I had 3 done last fall...2 queen sized and 1 full...and they cost me a total of about $325 and that included her providing the batting. I have 2 ready to go now and several more in various stages. I understand about limited funds...we have 2 in college right now...but I decided that I would just do 2 or 3 a year. Maybe you could just try having one done now and another one later on?