Hello and happy spring from across the way, my dear friend! It sure sounds exciting to consider upgrading your Tin Lizzie to an Amara. Of course, I do not have the answer to your question but I did take a full day class using the Amara and it was simple to operate, not too big and produced nice results. I noticed there are forums and blogs on both the QBOT and HandiQuilter websites and I think there's a rather active facebook page for the HandiQuilter machines that would probably be very helpful!
Looking forward to hearing about your upgrade decision - have a lovely day!
Christine