Like so many other techniques there are hand techniques and machine techniques and there are artisans who come down on either side of the issue. When I purchased my new Bernina about 2 years ago I skipped the embroidery module because I don't care for it but I admire the work that is well done by others. I also think hand quilting is wonderful and I enjoy doing it. However, I spend a lot of time machine quilting because it is faster-not prettier. Time is important. I love to hand embroidery and do quite a lot of it.