I was in a similar position and ended up shopping for years and checking out machines. We had some money coming in a DH took me to a show and we shopped for long arms. At the end we decided which machine was right based on my needs. I now own a Innova 26, lightening stitch and pantovision. If you live to quilt and you can afford it go for it. I would get the machine you really want. I also feel guilt and feel like I should eventually take on quilts to quilt for others but I made sure to tell DH I was getting it just for me. I do quilts for others for free but it is so I can get practice on my machine. I quilt donation quilts that go to Vietnam vets and to hospice. I realy enjoy that.
I do think for many of us with long arms the machine is a luxury item that depreciates and not a business investment that pays off for itself. Kind of like a car. Lets just say I won't be getting another car for a long time and plan to drive the one I have till it is done. I thought that was a good trade off. I'd rather be driving my new long arm.
Last edited by Annaquilts; 05-03-2013 at 08:13 AM.