Welcome from Manitoba, in my guild we have a few guys that quilt, their style is unique and a masterpiece, he is an engineer like yourself, and that alone gives a different perspective on the quilt design. As for the machine, could you post a picture? From my own experience I found Missouri star company a good tutorial to learn.. I order rulers (toys) from them.. Don't be afraid to check out your nearest guild, maybe they would have books to offer or fabric to donate. That is how I get by on fabric, thread, donations even an old sewing machine was donated.