Hello QuiltE - is it the top thread that's breaking? It could just be that the needle is slightly blunt, so try changing it. Otherwise it might be that the top tension is too tight. Or a combination of both. Getting the machine set right for FMQ can be a bit of a headache, which is why I haven't used my treadle for anything else since I managed to get it sorted out. I daren't mess it up.
Canadians mere children? Not even out of nappies. The town I grew up in celebrated its millennium in 1985. You have space (I can't comprehend the size of your country), we have history.
Anyway, I actually got a bit of sewing done today. I've nearly finished the boring bit on the flax flowers, the stems and leaves, and might even get to the actual flowers tomorrow. I can't wait to get onto another colour.