When I first learn to quilt it was by hand, no sewing machine. Then I started using a machine to piece but still hand quilted. I started having problems with my neck and could no longer do hand work. I was a bit of a purist about quilting and thought machine quilting was like cheating. I gave up quilting for about 9 years.I did get back into it and now do no hand work. If we didn't have all the tools I don't think I would be quilting now. I think it would be great if everyone learned to quilt the old way but if not for the tools of the day I would not be quilting again