I had a lol (a LOT) of problems with my Janome skipping stitches, and not just when FMQing. I finally broke down and got it serviced, and was relieved that the problem was not operator error (I hate when that happens). Turns out there was something significantly wrong and the guy had to do a bunch of work from under the machine. Anyway, it now sews like a dream. Whew!
Be sure you're using the right needle (a topstitch needle in size 12 or 14, depending on thickness of thread), and try various settings of your tension.
My Janome really likes fine poly thread (like Bottom Line) in the bobbin. If the machine is happy, so am I. I sometimes use it in the top too.
Having said that, service on your Janome could well cost $100, but you should end up with a machine that is hard to beat. It's unlikely that a cheap machine would do a better job.
Or you could look for a good used machine...but even then I doubt you'd get one for $100 unless you're lucky.
Good luck!
Last edited by newestnana; 07-06-2012 at 07:17 AM.