I bought an embroidery machine last fall and even though I spent a lot I'm so glad I have it. I knew that I'd get bored really fast with a 4x4 or even a 7x7 hoop so I wanted more. Even though I was just starting out I wanted a machine that would be waiting for me to grow into instead of me growing out of. Mine does so much more than alot of machines. This past week I took a class for the cutwork needles where the special needles go back and cut the fabric from the design to make the lace or cutouts. If you've ever seen the Viking dress that has those gorgeous flowers with the cutouts that's how they are done; machine, not by hand. Check out a few and even though it's tempting to make the price the biggest factor it can't be the only one because you'll start off excited and the get frustrated with all that you can't do as you learn more. Good luck on your choice. They are a great thing to go with the quilting.