Welcome to the world of quilting. You'll be sure to have a great time here. I think you're a little confused about the vocabulary, or maybe I'm the one that's confused😊.
They are 3 basic things we do with our sewing machines, patchwork, applique and quilting.
For patchwork you need a good way to make an accurate 1/4 inch seam, for machine applique you need a machine with an adjustable zig zag stitch, for quilting you need a walking foot and an free motion foot.
As far as "steering " goes, that is practice.
I suggest watching some u tube, or an experienced friend to see how others control their machines.
My advice on a new sewing machine would be a used vintage machine. You'll get a heavier machine that will stand up to the demands of pushing a big quilt through the small harp. There's a board here about those.
Again utube for demos on how to set up your table to make it easier. I've quilted queen size quilts on a regular sewing machine. Takes some doing, but possible.
Good luck.