I have only been quilting about four years now and when I first discovered what a LA is, I thought I would never own one or be able to use one...well, thanks to my DH, I purchased one last year with a loan....I feel it is totally worth it and I am so glad I did...quilting is what brings me joy in my life (as opposed to work ...hahahaha)...I feel it is a gift to do what I love and have no regrets getting my LA....the happiness it brings makes it worthwhile...Let us know what you decide :-)