I think it also depends on the ultimate use of the quilt. If it is for a wedding present or something memorable, I gladly pay what the professional quilter charges because I know she will do a fabulous job. If I want to make a utility quilt for my grandkids I will have someone do a meandering stitch or a programable stitch for which another quilter charges less, most of the time under $100 for a twin size quilt. Lately, for economic reasons but also to get more in touch with the tradition of quilting, I have been doing more hand quilting. I piece during the day and when I sit down in the evenings to watch TV, I hand quilt. It's amazing how quick I've gotten and how much I am enjoying it.