Grace hand quilting frames are not priced that high really. I have an old one built in 1996, bought in 1999, Z44 that compresses down to about 18 inches out from the wall. E-Bay also sells them under $300.00 as the company does. It looks so simple to load up the quilt and secure the sides with straps to keep it tight. They are made of light materials, so they are easy to handle also. I am considering ordering one for myself. You might want to check them out on the computer.