I didn't read all of the replies here. I am sure they are all very supportive. I just want to throw in my 2 cents. I find SID rather frustrating. I can't seem to keep it in the ditch either. I find a meander much easier and much more forgiving. Or a simple loopy all over. Give it a try on a 36 inch practice piece. I bet by time you get to the bottom you will have found a technique you really like. The secrets are RELAX, put the pedal to the metal and move your hands slowly and start the machine before moving your fabric after stopping to reposition your hands.