I use a straight stitch only machine for all my piecing. The fabric never gets pulled into the bobbin area. I have a Brother 1500 straight stitch with thread cutter and I love it. I use my vintage straight stitch FW and 301 for classes and workshops. I have a Singer 15 in cabinet that I use for paper piecing, a Singer Quantum for decorative stitches, and two Janome Gems I let the kids use. I gave my two treadles to my DDs, they like the look for their decor, they never use them. At least they are storing them out of my way. I could still use a brand new Bernina!