I had a top of the line Kenmore before I bought a Bernina Artista 180. I loved that Bernina! When I traded it in for the Artista 200, I wanted that 180 back. I never had a problem with the 180. Others have given you excellent suggestions, e.g., re threading, being sure you have the correct bobbin, etc. If none of those work and a Bernina deLer is near, take it in and have it serviced. I gave my Kenmore to my granddaughter. When I have to sew on it at her house, I wonder why I ever liked that machine. I'm a real Bernina fan and I think the 180 is a great machine.