I started with meandering stitches too so I could get the feel of how the machine works. My machine sits on a carrier that moves in any direction. I also have the styles that follows a guilt pattern but have only just tried it. I think the best for me will be the pouncer with the chalk. I did find that my years of doing free motion decorative stitching has been a big help. I'm not afraid to move the machine. Also I don't have any quilt police around so if I make a mistake, who knows but me and the cats.