I don't have a long arm machine, but I do have a long arm quilt frame. When I have my quilt all pieced, I put it on the frame, then I put my regular sewing machine on the frame and quilt. Granted, I can only quilt a strip of approx. 5" wide, so I have to stop and roll more often, but it works well and I am getting a real feel for what it is like to use a long arm. Mostly I have done meandering and waves. I've tried, on scrap fabric, to do feathers but they will take much more practice. When I finally get a long arm, I will have a good idea what to expect. (P.S. I bought a Bernina frame right after the Mid-Atlantic Quilt Show and got a great price - but you can find frames - new and second hand - for sale online.)