Welcome from Illinois. I like both. Machine for when I want something done fast, hand for when I just want to mosey along with something---usually antigue or hand applique. I find hand piecing and quilting very relaxing. I also mix them sometimes. I have a quilt that I made for my DD when she was young and going through a tiger phase that incorporates, pieced, quickie panels (some call them cheaters), tieing and hand quilting. There's no wrongs and rights, only "I like it"s.