I think it does have allot to do w/machine. I'm not a FM'er but every once in a while on a small landscape I give a try and I'm always surprised "not so bad" But I find the only machine I do well on is my Vintage Singer 301. I've tried on my newer machines and ugh...seem to have no control. I just bought a Husq Epic with a 12 inch throat and haven't given it a try on it yet...Hope it works out for the few times I do FM.