Perhaps this is an opportunity to enlighten your LQS so they would have more hand quilting classes. I bet they have hand applique classes.
I am confused though. Do you do all your piecing by hand too?
Many LQS's also teach the beginning quilter on how to do the various parts of quilting: color choices, design choices, estimating fabric, cutting with rotary cutters, batting choices, binding, label making, and much, much more. They can be a great resource.
I like the quality of the fabrics at the LQS's. When I want to make something really nice for someone special I won't use Joann's or Hobby Lobby or WalMart. I go to those store for other fabrics and notions.
ali