You might also try the "quilt-as-you-go" method. There are several of them out there that quilt a block at a time or sections at a time and then join the blocks or sections.

I use my JukiTL98Q. I got mine from ebay new.

I have a domestic and have fmq all of my quilts like the other lady said it can be done and it gets better with every one that you do.

I have all domestic sewing machines (except one industrial 31-15) and I quilt all my own quilts. Like someone else said, there's a learning curve and you won't be happy with your first few, but you catch on. And there's such a sense of accomplishment from having done it all yourself. :)

Before my shoulder gave out, I did hundreds of quilts on my home machine. First, I was using a Bernina, Now I have a Janome. The Janome is easier to use because it has more quilting space (and a sturdier machine). Most of my quilting is free motion. I do one relatively small section at a time, then move to another. This one, for example, was about 105" square. You don't need to afford a LA to quilt a larger quilt. You do need some patience.

You don't have to have a longarm. There's a ton of info on Leah Day's blog. She quilts on a regular machine.

http://freemotionquilting.blogspot.com/

Then check out Sharon Schamber's basting videos on youtube.

Between the two you'll be able to baste and quilt any size quilt.

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I started with this older table top frame. I used my mechanical Pfaff with about 5-6 inch throat. I have since upgraded to a mid arm and this frame is for sale. If interested PM me....

When I first started quilting in 91, I used a 40+ year old Singer and completed several queens that way. Yes, there is a learning curve but I think it's worth it. Now, I have an HQ16 but only because it was my mother's posthumous gift to me.

I have a voyager for about 4 years now. I love it. I think the new model is a little more, than I paid for mine. I have not had a minute's trouble with it that was not caused by "operator" error.

I currently have an Innova LA (which is easier to handle and less expensive than a Gammill - having rented a Gammill at my LQS). Before I was able to purchase it, I had taken excellent classes from Sue Rasmussen, Elizabeth Spannring, and Diane Gaudynski, who all do large quilts on their Bernina home machines and learned wonderful things. There is a learning curve on your home machine, but as everyone says, you can do it.