My machine never used to mind batiks or anything else, but it had a huge overhaul....and wham! Had to find another repair person to reset everything....but since all that...it is very touchy about needles.....I thought I was going to have to take it back to the repair shop....but after all other needles kept skipping...I googled and found the Microtex needle suggestion...Yay! I have been enjoying my machine again.... hope you find the same for you.