I ran into this years ago -I was young and didn't really know how to sew - I asked at a Bernina dealer about learning some basics - boy you would have thought I was dropped in the sewer before I went in - they did not want to talk unless I purchased a Bernina - needless to say I never returned and I have been a little prejudiced against Bernina since then. Sorry that you were not treated well - at least you have some $$$ to afford more fabric. Woo Hoo...