I,too, am a self taught machine embroiderer. I would definitely NOT sell the Ellageo. I just purchased a practically brand new Brother 6700D at an estate sale. Feel like I almost stole it! I had a Brother 1250D so this is quite a step up for me but I love it so far. Sandy, what embroidery forums do you belong to? I gather so much info from this site on quilting that I would like to join an embroidery forum. Always willing to learn! Guess that's why I taught school for 26 years!