Thanks for the suggestions and No, shame on me but I did not try it out before I left---never have had to before, but..... I have not done any FMQ, this is just plain ol' sewing. At first, I was sewing thru minkee fabric, but now I'm trying on scraps, same weight of thread, just different colors and I have changed needles. I'll email the dealer and also try using a Bernina LQS closer to our new home. I've tried adjusting the top tension, but..... Thanks for your suggestions, I so appreciate it.