I have had my Tin Lizzie for over a year and I love it. I use all kinds of thread, coats & clark, YLI, thread art etc., they all work for me. The cheaper brands do cause more lint, I brush the bobbin area and case with each new bobbin change. I do check /adjust the tension when I change brands. I almost always use white thread with my machine. I found that I did have to adjust the tension more for colors/black. As with any longarm there is a learning period.
There are very helpful Yahoo Groups to check, one specific to Tin Lizzie.
They are a super source for help and info.
I bought my machine second-hand, locally, for a price I could afford. I have seen some good prices lately on new machines.
Do your research and find the right machine for you. I couldn't be happier with mine. :lol: