When I bought mine I was told that the co recommends Aurifil, which I love for peicing as well. I don't where you are but here the Viking reps are dealers, not at JoAnns, it is so much easier to work with a dealer. Mine has an on site repair person which makes it great because fewer machines get sent out to be fixed plus they'll test it out in front of you to see if they can fix the problems. Are you making sure you are oiling the machine, it needs lots of oil. I also like the Inspira needles from Viking, the eyes are rounded so the thread glides thru better. I use them for sewing, emb and quilting.