I do machine embroidery too and quilt my own on my longarm. It's no problem to work around it at all. I bought my machine from Nolting becuase they made it latex-free for me and they were wonderful. I have a very basic machine, just the stitch length equalizer and i like it that way. Just a suggestion, Nolting has used machines that were traded in when someone wanted to upgrade and those prices are a lot cheaper. I have had my machine a few years now and it has been running great. Check out the Nolting web site. If you are near Nazareth, PA you are welcome to come and use my machine. I just put an ad in the paper here to rent it out by the hour. It would be nice meeting you if you are near by. You can make a lot more quilts if you quilt them on the long arm. If you decide to get one, consider renting it by the hour to other local quilters. It will help you pay for it and help other quilters who are not able to keep up with their quilt tops :) Happy Quilting!