Boy can I relate. I have a B-line and Juki setup which is temperamental. I rarely use it or do a big spurt and then don't use it for weeks. This habit means I unlearn everything I learned and start over at square one. My top New Year's resolution is to learn to use it. I found that using a panel helped so I could try different movements and also just a plain quilt sandwich which I gave to the neighbor for a dog bed. I drew on some shapes which I tried to follow and then "creatively" travel to the next shape. I intend to do a little bit every day or two so I don't unlearn all progress. Just a thought that might help. My system makes me nervous too, esp since I have no dealer to call for help.