First of all, I did not read through all of the pages so if this issue has already been addressed than ignore my message. I have a Singer treadle that I've used for about 10 years and I love it. When I first tried to sew with it the thread would be cut going through the single hole plate (only plate I have). I struggled and struggled to no avail until I turned the needle sideways. Yep, I thread it left to right instead of front to back. I haven't had a bit of trouble with it sewing since. Strange but true and maybe this will help someone else.