Granted there are pros and cons for both methods of machine quilting. But, if you have the room for the frame, I think the smallest is 10ft, and a machine that is specifically built for easy manuverability(sp), that is lightweight, and able to obtain the spm..stitches per minute....without ruining the motor....not just a sewing machine put on a sled with handles attached....you have the versatility of either fm or following a ready made pattern( panto). I have my work area divided into two parts....my sewing-piecing and strictly L/A...so if I get tired or no inspiration when L/A, I walk to other end, turn on DSM and work on whatever is there.......just how I like my world. Btw the friend who has the 10ft frame Nolting just moved from house with basement "studio" to single wide mobile and I helped her reset her machine in one of the three bdrms...and she has room to walk completely around the frame......just an FYI