thanks so much! I changed the needle to a universal and re-threaded the bobbin just in case (i had a pre-wound bobbin in there with a different thinner thread) and it works perfect now! I'm so glad I wrote here and took the advice above before going back to my old machine. I was considering returning the Janome but I know it's a much better, sturdier machine so I'd hate to do that. I'm so happy! Thanks again!