I took lessons on LA at my local quilt shop, also worked there so it was a win win situation for me. Changed jobs so working at the shop has been very limited, now have my own LA and can quilt when ever I want, which is usually at night. Yes there were some upfront costs for the learning to use the machine but realized it was money well spent. There are so many little things that you learn when you take the lessons that made it a worth while for me. Everything from how to load, filling bobbins, thread control, etc. Started with simple quilting patterns (meanders, overall patterns, stippling, etc.) now do lots of other stuff with stencils, my own drawings and what ever strikes my fancy. For me...the lessons gave me a little bit more confidence to venture out into my own new adventures.