When I first tried FMQ, I broke several needles. Took the machine in for a checkup. You guessed it - there was nothing wrong with the machine. Apparently I was trying to move the fabric when the needle was down or just as the needle was entering the fabric. I became more careful about when I moved the fabric. Plus I was sewing too slow. Once I went faster, everything went smoother. A tip that I read somewhere. Always have a practice piece around and quilt on that for a few minutes before starting on the "real thing". It takes a few minutes to get back into the groove and get smooth flow in you quilting. This tip applies to hand quilting too. Just keep practicing and you will get better.