Thanks so much for your helpful hints. I've been working with PES 1 and all is well. I've also used the stabilized batting and it is wonderful for in-the-hoop designs! This is on my list for must haves. I've always used left over quilting batting and have had issues with the foot or feed dogs running wild thru the batting. No more of that for me. It's great to have something that works so well. Thanks again all. Enjoy your crafting. Onward and upward with the hooping projects.
-Rhonda