runninL8, you can adjust the tension on the presser foot by turning the knob on the top of the machine near the back of the faceplate. That and using the SITD foot with the flange that sticks out have made it possible to have no puckers. I have SITD with the FMQ foot, too. It's a little harder to go perfectly straight, but doable. Have you downloaded a free manual from sew-classic or the ISMACS site? Lots of good info there, including embroidering with this machine. I used those instructions for thread painting the animals in some panels on a wildlife quilt.