I too have a Brother 1500sp and LOVE IT. No fancy stitches but you do not need any for peicing and FMQ or SID. I bought my machine from Amazon for $600 with no tax and free shipping. I guess this is a high end machine because the LQS price was $1200. Go to LQS and test drive machine and get on you like the feel of. I also have a Singer Confidence Quilter from Joann's for $300 which I use to do my fancy stitches and also take to class. It does a nice job peicing but the Brothers is much nicer/easier for FMQ. IMHO A machine may help make you a good quiltyer but the skill still lies with the person!