I can't help with your tension problem, but wanted to tell you that NO question is a dumb question & we all had to begin learning at some point. We didn't just wake up one day & know how to quilt. I am a newbie also, & I ask a lot of questions. That's how we learn & it is such a blessing to have access to the bountiful knowledge of all of these wonderful people on this QB. I couldn't do it with out their help. I would say you were a newbie twit IF you didn't use the resources that were available to you. So, no you are not a newbie twit, but, one smart lady. Hang it there!