Thanks for all your suggestions..I had just refilled the bobbin so maybe it is overwound..my DD found a copy of the manuel online so she downloaded it and printed it out for me. I will take some time today to sit down and read it over. I think I will try changing the bobbin first and see if that helps. I had just put a new needle in it too. maybe I have it in backwards? Thanks you!! you gals on this board are all the bestest!! Happy Stitchin' Linda B.