I was using a 12, switched to a 16 (since I was quilting through 3 layers) and it actually did worse, would not pick up the bobbin thread at all!!! Put the 12 back in and it only skips every few inches. Have threaded and rethreaded, even checked the manual, top thread and bobbin both correct. I would guess the needle is seated correctly, not sure how to check that.
I am stumped and frustrated but thanks for the suggestions.