The vibration could be from your table. The white tables they sell now as work tables vibrate TERRIBLY. I like the old fake wood top tables. Those things were stable. Also I get that Kerchunk sound when I need a new needle. Free motion often takes a sturdier needle as you are putting stress on it that it does not get when you are sewing straight with feed dogs up. Just 2 things to consider. And remember! Everytime you tackle an issue with your freemotion quilting, you are learning to TROUBLESHOOT! (that little nugget gets me over ALOT Of issues!) Good luck!