Barb, I just went through the start up experience myself and actually began sewing in May. I went with 2 Amaya XT machines after seeing it at the ISS show in long beach. I did explore purchasing a Tajima as well and since I wanted 2 heads determined Amaya was right for me. I liked the fact I could sew separate designs / garments at the same time, something the multihead Tajima can't do. Also Tajima was approximately $6000 more. I compared warranties, service, extras that came with purchasing a new machine, etc. I am very happy with my Amaya choice. As far as set up, you will quickly see what you will need. I purchased a worktable kit from Home Depot for $50. It is solid wood, has a full shelf underneath and two drawers. I stained it and put it together. I also recommend tubs with drawers if you can find them for storage. I converted our spare bedroom into my office, so I use the shelves already built in the closet as well. You will have a learning curve when it comes to sewing, putting together designs, etc. Do go to any training available with your machine purchase and attend seminars or conferences in your area. As you order garments for your customers, I advise ordering 1 or 2 extra. Take it from experience, it saves time as you are learning, making mistakes, etc. to have a extra shirt or hat on hand to replace the one you mess up. Good luck in getting your business off and running. If I can be of further assistance give me a shout. Cindy Chamberlin Impressive Threads Phoenix, Az 85085 impressivethreads@xxxxxxx -----Original Message----- From: amayausers-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx [mailto:amayausers-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx] On Behalf Of webmaster@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx Sent: Friday, August 04, 2006 11:07 AM To: amayausers@xxxxxxxxxxxxx Subject: [amayausers] Re: Machine Choice This message was posted by Barb on AmayaUsers.com. PLEASE DO NOT REPLY VIA EMAIL. Instead, respond to the thread on the WEBSITE by clicking here: http://www.amayausers.com/boards/ultimatebb.php?/topic/1/4.html Hello, everyone! I'm a newbie and am in the confusing stage of choosing which machine to purchase. Help! Any suggestions for questions to ask at a trade show - going to ISS next week - such as the most important considerations, etc. If anyone can take the time to advise me, I'd greatly appreciate it. We are concerned about the learning curve for the Design Shop Pro software, especially in how much artistic talent is needed to learn digitizing and have the designs stitch out nicely. I do believe we want a two-head even to start, especially with the dual design capability. This is a HUGE point with Amaya XT. Agree, or disagree? Those of you who already use this, are there dificulties, issues to be aware of, downsides, etc.? Anyone have suggestions about setting up your workshop? - i.e. cool ideas for storage of supplies, optimal lighting, arrangement of equipment, etc. We'll be converting a bonus room over a garage, so we will have almost no full height walls, mostly knee-walls, one window, 13.5 x 20 feet. In advance thank you to any who respond. Barb, The EmbroiderMe Shop =========================================================== The AmayaUsers Mailing List Website: http://www.amayausers.com Discussion Board: http://www.amayausers.com/boards Subscribe/Unsubscribe: http://www.amayausers.com/list =========================================================== =========================================================== The AmayaUsers Mailing List Website: http://www.amayausers.com Discussion Board: http://www.amayausers.com/boards Subscribe/Unsubscribe: http://www.amayausers.com/list ===========================================================