update on my machine
I found a fixit website and "dived in" this morning--took the end cover off--and it is definitely thread wrapped around a bearing near the thread take up lever. A rainbow of colors. This machine was bought 2nd hand last Dec., and I know I'm not responsible for all of this! Seems when our thread breaks, we pull the end out or break it in the machine and it builds up. In future I will do a thorough look-see when I have breakage. Meantime, the instructions on line say if you can't remove it all, then it's up to repair man to remove the needle bar . The wheel is still locked tightly.
Re: the problem seeing downloaded designs...there are many free programs to help with that....There is a viewer that lets you see thru folders as well as singles, and has a print function. At Secrets of Embroidery you can download a free file that has category folders to sort & store ..install into your docs. There are other free software programs that you can use until you decide to buy an expensive program....when you want to "create" your own designs.