I don't know if any of you have ever tried the Sugarveil icing dispenser before, or even owns one.

http://www.sugarveil.com/icing_dispenser/index.htm

I am tempted to get one of these but would like to know whether you can use any icing you like in the machine or does it have to be their specialist icing mix? Would it work just as well with melted chocolate or normal royal icing?

I wouldn't spend that much and try to add different frostings. I would be worried about messing it up. Go to fondant source and look up 8 oz Squeezit Mold Painter Bottle and 2 oz Squeezit Mold Painter Bottles Pk/2 I plan on buying these bottles and a package of Sugarveil. I don't see why it wouldn't work for making lace or other decorations and a lot less expensive too.