It seems you have your quilty ducks in a row. You have look and played with the various machines at shows. this is a good starting place. Know t hat some machines are quickly sold as used so that the owners can get a better machine.
I have a used HQ 16. I get great service locally if needed. Though I have just called to HQ and gotten answers for any questions I had. I love it! P.S. I only do my own or charity quilts at this time. I'm just not ready to work for others ... except a few friends.
Now we have more than 1 LQS in our area that rents out time on their Gammills. You have to take a one-on-one session to make sure yuo know how to use the machine. Then you reserve the time slot you want. Some of those using these machine actually do quilting for others and charge for the service. If this is available in your area it is a good first step. Also if you are limited on space in your home this is ideal.
ali
Last edited by AliKat; 10-28-2012 at 10:32 AM.