thank you, Rivka, for all that information and the things to consider!! So helpful!! I know more about what I'm dealing with. I didn't know what a mid-arm was, etc. I have seen the huge long-arms in quilt stores. but, that is strictly out of my budget!! Therefore, I am trying to find something that will work for me. No, I don't think I would be happy with the 7 or 9 inch space either. That's too much like what I'm trying to do on my sewing machine now. Thank you, thank you, so much. I will probably be asking some more questions. I am trying to do a lot of research before I even start shopping.