I agree that the difference between student grade and professional grade tools, equipment and supplies is more prevelent in fine art than fiber art. In whatever I'm doing I don't want to be frustrated by what I'm working with. So I buy the best I can afford. I think most quilters aren't doing it to make a living, but because they enjoy it. And most quilters aren't "students" (whatever that emplies) when they start quilting, they're experienced adults. Many women are/have been part of the work force + mother/wife/partner and know the value of their time. And then, most quilters are women.....does this make the discipline different from a male dominated field? If this were a male dominated discipline what would the sewing machines be like? I think they would have faster speeds and be a work horse. And each machine would do one thing exceptionally well. An embroidery machine would be an industrial model, no horsing around. For what it's worth.....some of my brainstorming.