The clamshell can be a toughie. I had a fight with it once also. don't let it gt you down. sounds like you ar doing right by setting it aside for a little while. One suggestion. I fyou are doing strightline quilting next time, you can mark yu lines with blue painters masking tape instad of using a marking pencil. Its a little more that regular masking tape, but it sures is mor forgiving, even when you accidntally stitch through it :!: I machine piece and quilt because I work about 45 hrs a week and that is all I have time to do. But best of luck to you. Don't let it get you down. Everyone on the board is here to help--thats what keeps us all going. Lots of friendly folks here. :-)