Hi Myrna, Received my LA in Nov., 3 years ago. Had a friend in the business come and help with tips and suggestions. I practiced on alot of Linus quilts and a friend had many quilts to practice on for free. Started business maybe 3-4 months later. I only do free motion and lots of basic patterns-not much custom,but i am learning new tech. all the time. Get a dry erase board and practice patterns on that. I have an acct. that helps with taxes because I sell batting also. Keep records of everything--mileage to and from shops, shows,retreatsetc., retreat costs,supplies, donations of quilts and services. Check prices of quilting in your area and go from there. I usually charge 10.00 a bobbin and somewhere between the total inches of the quilt----some say Im to inexpensive. Hope this helps--let me know Jill