It seems that most of the people that use a DSM on a Grace frame (or similar) are not satisfied with the amount of quilting space if they are doing bed size quilts. Definitely try out lots of different machines and set ups (standard long arms; mid-arms--both stand up like the BlockRockit and sit-downs and even the frame & DSM set-up). And keep one thing in mind--while you currently do mostly stippling and some edge2edge, that could be just the beginning if you got a easy to use machine!

This might not help in your decision, but I have decided to rent at a local quilt shop. For 6,000 dollars I can quilt about 80 quilts, and the machine is top of the line. I am going to buy a new embroidery machine instead.

I just bought the King quilter 18 inch to put on my Grace Majestic frame. I had used a babylock Jane on it but everyone is right about the space being small especially after rolling the quilt. So far I like the King quilter but I haven't used it much yet. The machine was around $3,000 from Sewing Machines Plus. And I can add computer to it if I want later on.
It seem to be a good machine for the price .

Currently, I have the Grace Majestic frame which I love because it will hold two rolls of queen size batting on the lower rail. I started out with a Juki machine (9-inch throat space) on a SuperQuilter frame, switched to a Bailey which I bought with the Grace Majestic frame as a package deal and now use Q'nique made by Grace. I love it! Do try out used and new machines in your price range, and you will find a machine that suits you well!

If I every have the money I will buy a Statler Sticher by Gammil .

If you buy a long arm, see what kind of warranty it has. My HQ is sensitive to almost every thread and makes horrible sounds, breaking the thread constantly. The dealer does not want to be bothered. I would never buy HQ again.

Some shops teach you how to use their quilting machine and then allow you to rent time to do your quilts. That might be one way to learn how to quilt on a machine at the same time finishing some of your quilts.

Always buy more than you anticipate you will need!

Another point, today you do basic stippling, but what could you do with that dream machine? Are you interested in improving skills or happy with your work now and have no interest in doing more?

There are good and not so good dealers of every brand. I passed on buying a brand new Gammill because of the dealer. His loss because I told him I had cash and wanted to spend it, I guess he didn't believe me. I ended up buying a demo model HQ Avante because I really like the dealer. My machine is wonderful, not picky about thread and if I have any issues she'll tell me what to do over the phone or if she's not busy she'll come right over. You should see if there's another HQ dealer close enough to you and call them, let them know how you've been treated and have them look at your machine.

Cari