Hi,
thanks for your responses, I have re-threaded the machine several times and I have a new needle in the machine (70/10) which is the correct way round!
The machine is a Toyota RS2000 which has automatic tension. I have checked the manual and it is set at the appropriate number.
The bobbin is definitely in the right way around, I have made that mistake before and the mess it makes is quite amazing!
I'm wondering if it because I am going so slowly, I am also hand cranking it on occasion to ensure that the needle stops in the down position so that I can get around the curves.
Perhaps, above all, it is down to inexperience and the fact that the project is a beyond my level at the moment
Thank you x