I went to the show in Houston last year. You should not have any problem being able to try out any of the machines you are interested in. I tried several and I was not even thinking about buying one. I hope you are staying overnight and going to the show at least 2 days. There is just so much to do there with all the quilts on display, the vendors, the free lectures and you may want to take in a class or 2. Have fun and don't forget your camera!