If it is the needle making the tic tic noise, you need a new needle. For more trouble shooting, go to Superior Threads web site. They have a trouble shooting chart that is easy to follow. The have an educational series on thread, tension, and needles, excellent. It really opened my eyes, he debunked a lot of myths about thread and tension. I found the series on The Quilt Show but it may also be on the web site.