Thoughts on Merchant Accounts?

I'll keep this short (for once G). I'm having a growing discontent with
Paypal, for a number of reasons. In addition, I'm going to start doing shows
again this fall, and I'd like to be able to handle credit card & debit card
sales. I'd very much appreciate anyone's insight, experience and advice on
getting a merchant account, the expenses involved, etc.

My local bank is very nice to small businesses. They even say they have no
set-up or application fees, if you already have a business checking account,
which I do. I'm just wondering what other costs and efforts will be
involved.

Color me clueless but ready and willing to learn,
KarenK
Desert Dreamer Designs
http://members.cox.net/desertdreameraz/
Ebay Sto http://www.stores.ebay.com/desertdreamerdesigns
JustBeads: http://www.justbeads.com/search/ql.cfm?s=DesertDreamer