Originally Posted by caspharm

I used to go to my LQS and rent time on their non-SR machine. I paid by the hour, no minimum time, but had to make an appointment. That was after taking their 5 hour class to learn their machine (Nolting, now Gammill).

They also have a fully tricked out Gammill with Statler Stitcher that they use for custom quilting. They charge by size and work on that one, plus if someone wants a pattern they don't have, they share the cost with the client for the new (to the store) pattern for the Statler. They have a book with patterns that the store already has for the Statler as well as ones that can be ordered.

The LQS near where I live now also does the same, but charges twice what I paid for rental with a 2 hour minimum.

I am also one who likes to do the whole quilt from beginning to finished. Therefore, I am finally getting my own LA in about a week (Innova 26" w/ lightening stitch) and can't wait. We now have room for me to have a LA. I don't know if I will do a business, but will probably do a lot of charity work besides my own projects.

Good luck with your plans.