I haven't done much hand piecing, but have read Jinny Beyer's book; I'm not sure my arthritic fingers will every be able to extensively hand piece, but it's something I'd love to become adept at. I don't think machine piecing can be as precise as hand piecing, where you control the placement of every single stitch. Maybe consider that you're giving up some precision to gain some speed. I hope you can eventually find some satisfaction in your machine piecing!