i have had a longarm machine for about 4 years now. i bought it thinking i would do some business with it. i have done a few quilts for people, but have found that i enjoy it more just for myself. there's nothing like finishing a top and being able to just run downstairs and start quilting it! this is an expensive venture, but i also work full time and figured i need to work for something i like as well as "the bills". also, i was spending a LOT of money paying someone else. it does take a lot of practice, though, as everyone has said. my husband is actually better than i am at it, go figure! he is mechanically inclined though. good luck with whatever you decide!