Maybe the combination of the flannel and the thread makes her unhappy. Some machines are particular like that.

Scowlcat, you are mistaken. The Symphonie does not have the IDT, it has the fabric sensing system. (I have the Espire which is basically the same machine and LOVE her)

I'm doing a demo day with the Janome on Saturday, then the Ellisimo later in the month. Shhh...don't tell anybody, but I know which one I'll get.

DH keeps telling me we should buy in NH because it's tax-free. He doesn't get it that you want a *local* dealer to work with.

Are you bringing up the bobbin thread (through the top) when you begin stitching?

Someone stated above they would only get the Janome Horizon 7700 for regular sewing - it was built more for quilting and has the 11" throat space, FMQs beautifully, and also has a free arm and great "regular" sewing features, so I don't get that...OH, NEVER MIND! I realize now you were wanting embroidery, too. Sorry!

Anyhow, I agree you need to figure out the problem first (but STILL go for the new machine!).

I think you are having a top thread problem rather than a bobbin issue. Check your threading again, and again. Thread from the top will bird's nest underneath if it is not threaded correctly or tension is off. Use a small test sandwich for trying different settings. Try using a No. 14 needle rather than a top stitch needle. They work best for me for FMQ on my Baby Lock Quilters Pro. Also, are you lowering the foot lever before you sew? Forgetting to do that will cause the top thread to "free wheel" into masses of knots underneath. Good luck!!!

Thanks for the help!
Janet

Absolutely 100% sure that there's no way the needle could be in "backwards"? ..as in the front of the needle is in the back?

I think I was the one who brought up embroidery - just telling the OP of a couple of combo machines I found to be high quality.

I mentioned the Janome Horizon for sewing only (meaning sewing/quilting but no embroidery). If all I wanted was sewing/quilting, that would absolutely be my choice.

Sorry for any confusion.

Is it possible that a quilting needle would be better than a topstitch needle? I buy Schmetz needles and they sell them as separate needles.