I am having the same problems using Connecting Threads Essenntials 50W cotton thread--had to quit using the milliners 11 needle because of the small eye and needle bending. Am changing to regular thread today . The cotton thread knots and twists and shreds and breaks ---very frustrating. I am making table runners and have way over a thousand of 1 inch little buggers to sew together yet. No words of wisdom tho---just keep on stitching, I guess. We are moving next month so I have more packing to do and am wearing a boot on one foot for a stress fracture so can't be on my feet for long periods so have been using the hexies for stress relief-ha!!!!