I do primarily raw edge applique on my 6600 and I love it. I bought it over a juki machine, even though it was more expensive, due to the recommendation of my sewing machine repair guy. It is not fussy about thread. I haven't found a thread I can't use. I sew a lot more since I bought this machine [ATTACH=CONFIG]548724[/ATTACH] I just posted some Day of the Dead quilts in pictures. Here is one done on the 6600 with a lot of raw edge applique. If your mom lives in the San Diego area she is welcome to come try out my machine.