Years ago I learned to quilt that way. I handpieced a pillow top (Log Cabin). That hooked me on hand quilting. However, just getting pregnant with our last child, a few years have passed. I am just starting to want to start quilting again. Everyone I know do it mostly all on machine. So due to accuracy I piecce on the machine(Quilt class) But I still hand quilted it....loved doing that. I almost forgot that you could do the top that way too. I have only made my third quilt now, and i too feel restrained by the machine...maybe I will try it again. There is a weird satisfaction for me. I agree with you.