I would definately want to see some of their work. It could be that the stitching is large. The prices are definately not much per hour.
Long arm prices too high?? I do mid arm quilting some a few customers, and when you figure expenses, the time involved, you aren't working for very much an hour. Figure out how long it takes to piece a quilt and then decide how much you are making an hour. If your work away from home, you will see what I am talking about. It's always been that way with handwork and a lot of other things women do, most people don't want to pay for what it's worth. I'm not wanting to start a big discussion but just stating my opinion.