I think your needle might be too big for your thread - that could cause skipped stitches. I have the 830 and know it can be sometimes have issues but I love that machine. It works best when used frequently. Most issues occur when it has been sitting for very long. These machines only like to do one thing at a time - no multitasking allowed. It can also be very fussy about the thread you use. Just took a class last night on using the BSR. Am now learning how to quilt my own quilts.