I sewed on a 1978 Kenmore ($140) until I bought my Bernina Active 240 in 2004. Such a difference, love it but I can say my LQS was a Bernina dealer and that is why I bought it for about $1200, paid over 1 year plan, if the dealer would have been selling Janomes or Pfalls, I would have gone in another direction. I bought for ease of going to classes and getting help locally. My old LQS has since moved and another has come into town and they do not have Bernina and I have to drive 90 miles if I want to get service. Not sure I want to change machines but may check out some. I have not done the quilts but sure would love to.