First of all your quilt is beautiful! Don't despair. You will get there. Believe me, I feel your pain. I have just finished a king-sized quilt on my little Singer. It was a LOT of work! I don't have $$ for a LA and not sure I'd want one anyway. Maybe you could put your lovely quilt aside for a little bit and practice on a smaller project or a plain muslin sandwich. Along with some of other suggestions others have given, try using quilting gloves or some type with grippers on the fingers. It helps. Good luck and be sure to post your finished quilt.