I had some of the same frustrating problems and took advice from my friends here on the board. Turns out it was my top tension that was off. Fixed that by adjusting a little at a time until it was perfect! Also, I had been told by the sales person who sold my machine, FMQ should be done with the machine at the highest speed and hands slow! That does NOT work for me! I set my machine at medium speed and I feel very comforatble and in control. The main thing to remember, it takes practice ... lots of it! Be sure you are practicing on the same fabric sandwich as your quilt. Just finished FMQing a king size "Warm Wishes" for a wedding gift. LOVE LOVE LOVE FMQing now!