Okay here is the question I need to ask you Judy. Do you put your left hand behind the foot on the machine? If you do then stop. It will stretch the fabric. The other things to do: 1 Use a stiletto to guide the fabric through the foot. 2 gently guide the fabric through the foot. 3 Mark the sewing machine bed with a stack of small post-it notes. Measure 1/4 inch from the needle. Place the post-it notes at the 1/4 inch mark and secure with tape. Make sure to leave the bobbin lid accessible. 5. Slow down. The faster you go the more chance you have to stretch the fabric. yes pinning helps since you have to sew slowly to remove the pins. I hope this helps! Luann