I have needle threaders on my embroidery machines (2 small ones) and don't use them. I have a knee lift on my Bernina 1260 and don't use that either. I learned to sew back in the 60's before all the gizmos and easily live without them. The only feature I use ALL the time is the needle up and down feature. As long as they sew well and I can balance the tension I am good.