I would look at it this way: Regarding the $900 for future embroidery; WHEN you buy the stuff for the embroidery, backing, thread, etc. then your first project cost you $900 and some change, your second project cost you $450, your third project was $300, etc. So how many projects do you have to do to get to a price that you feel you would PAY that much for at Dillards???? Of course it IS a hobby. Do you think you will fall in love with embroidery??? Some people do. *
Good luck with your decision!!