I LOVE to hand quilt....however, since I had 2 car accidents 2 wks apart 18 years ago I can no longer hand quilt because of neck and shoulder injury. Since I bought a midarm Phaff Handiquilter I still enjoy the finished product. Of course, its faster and I really enjoy the finished quilts. Have to also stop a lot even with the quilter.
I bought my used on EBay and have enjoyed having it; would be nice to have a larger opening, but this one is fine for my needs.
Enjoy whatever you choose to do.
delma