I see an embroidery machine in my future and I know some of you have them and use them to quilt. Can you direct me to any message boards or websites that review or discuss the merits/pitfalls of various machines?

try yahoo groups

Go into search with reviews on embroidery machines...and you'll get a list with all the brands and reviews on each

I can recommend Husqvarna Viking....you can go directly into their website for several of their machines

I did try that, but most groups seemed to just be ad sites where you can buy patterns.

I think hobbycat might have been suggesting to use search here in QB - there are many threads in which members have discussed embroidery machines. Lots of good information from people who had the same question.

Good luck with your research.