Thank you everybody! I've tried all suggestions to no avail, so I contacted my seller and he also suggested as you had. He believes the cutter may just be 'bad', and since I'm within my 30 days purchase, he is having me return the machine for a new one. I love the Juki and can't wait for my replacement! May I just say if you are looking to buy a Juki, I couldn't recommend SewVac more! These people are so helpful and got back to me immediately. Can't say enough good about them!!!