My new setup is with a strait stitch machine and it is very scary. Ive ruined several practice pieces and am scared to try again. The machine is just not easy to use on a frame and their are no instuctions to follow. I do love the stitch regulator I bought for it but even that has a learning curve.
Maybe this year is the year to get down to business and learn it.
I like the idea of using a panel with just flannel backing to practice on.