I also have a 6600 (4 years and counting) and it is a real work horse! Have never regretted the purchase. Lots of good ideas in previous posts. I also assumed that the "default" needle position was 1/4". Check your individual machine for an accurate 1/4". I primarily quilt so I changed my default, and on my machine that is 5.8. (Check your manual on how to do this). Think it depends on how firmly you push your fabric into the metal flange. You will love this machine...congratulations!