I have a Janome 6500 that I use for all my sewing and quilting. When I have problems I start by cleaning the bobbin area. If that doesn't help, I put in a new bobbin, a new needle, and rethread the machine. That happened last week and when I did the above things it just started purring like a kitten and has been great ever since. I also have my mother's Singer FW but it is not in condition to be used as a backup. I have sewn for 50+ years and have never had a backup sewing machine. My Janome is just my third sewing machine I've ever had.