I had about the same problem with my HQ bobbin winder. The bobbins were "spongy" and when I tried to unwind the bobbin it would tangle. Tried and tried to adjust the winder. Finally took it in to the dealer. The person from that shop that had setup my longarm had not put the winder together right. Lady made a few adjustments and it works fine now. What I was amazed at is the Avante had a wonderful stitch with those lousy bobbins!