Gee, I totally agree with your observation about recipes, that is so right!!
For me, the collecting is about appreciating the beauty of the designs and knowing I have something I can call upon. I began as a buyer because I did not find the 'freebies' originally. I had no idea about sizes of the design, complexity or quality. I remember trying "alphabets" before I knew the difference between "Monogram" and "keyboard fonts." That was a frustrating experience. I tried making words out of the monogram letters......
I do want to make one point here, and that is, be careful of the 'freebies.' Perhaps 90% (guesstimate) are really nice. But beware, there are some done by professionals but some done by well-meaning amateurs. Those new digitizers need to learn their craft, but you need quality designs.
Digitizing is so more than just putting stitches on fabric. You need to understand placement, density and directional stitching to mention just a few.
If you look at the designs here at Ann's, you will notice that the ones for sale have a statement - "Professionally Digitized." That means that Ann knows the quality of the digitizer. The freebies here are done by good beginners, and they are donated because that digitizer is pleased to show off their work.
When you are more experienced, you will be able to recognize a good digitizer from a newbie. Unfortunately, the best way to see that quality is to do a 'test sew out.'
Just the same, I love those freebies. I love ME for so many reasons, like meeting people who are interested in the same thing I am, this great craft.
Pat