$$$ was my final motivation. I quilted small things myself, but sent out large items to a local longarmer. That was okay for upscale items, but too expensive for charity quilts. I bought a midarm, but felt so restricted. I finally got a Artistic 18 two years ago. I had to do some juggling to make it fit, but it was the right decision for me. I still send my huge heirloom quality to my LAer, but do the rest myself in very simple edge to edge. My goal is to get more adventurous so I can expand my skills. I have contemplated a computer system, but can't justify the cost yet.