I bought a used HQ16 in March. I loaded 2 practice pieces and then decided to just go for the real thing. I got a huge amount of tops from my guild and just did it.
I tried a panto once and HATED it. I do not like being at the back of the machine. I bet I have done 50 quilts and am good with an all over design. I just did a custom type doing something in each block.
I have an excellent beginners DVD that I have outgrown and would sell. Send me a private message. This is for any long arm machine.
I LOVE my HQ.