The skill is in you the machine is the tool. If you can't or the machine is not mechanically capable because of incorporating certain stitching or size, then you may want to consider a newer machine. See how far you can go with your current machine. But is it actually the fact you really want a "newer with more bells and whistles"? I've seen quilts come off really pricey modern machines that I wouldn't give you the money of the fabric for because of the sewer's skills which were low leve/beginner/inexperienced. It's all in your hands!!