Rhonda Lee, if you've tried out long arms at shows, maybe taken a certification course and actually used one (or used a friends) so that you are aware of the process, if you have the room and the $$, then go for it!. Yes, there will be a learning curve--I've observed among my friends that the more you use it the faster that curve is overcome. LA quilting is hard on your body--if you plan to do mainly pantographs then I'd suggest you get computer/robotic guided to make it easier. If you think you'll do more free motion, rulers, stencils, etc then get fatigue mats to stand on and a drafting stool .