Thanks for the tip on the oil. I keep hearing that (grin). I do have a long arm so I don't need a DSM with the larger throat space which is why I wanted a machine in the 500 series. I actually also got a little Bernina red machine (215 I think) to use for going to classes as it is so much lighter than the 590 where I don't need all the feature of the 590...but it does look like it may be a while yet before we all get together for class. Bummer....but glad I have a new machine to work with. I have been doing some raw edged applique with the 590 using the blanket stitch and Hover and am learning! It is stitching so much smoother than the 570 did (yeah...I think that specific machine had issues.) Glad I was able to trade her for the 590.