Thanks JanetM & Gramof6 :)
Something that I did from a recommendation of our local sewing machine vendor - a 'stitch map' - make up a little quilt sandwich and do a sample line of every stitch that your machine will do.
It's amazing how different the stitches look with the thread vs the little icon on the book ... I have it close by so I know exactly which stitch I want. Sounds a bit silly, but it really works well for me :)
Changing the stitch lengths/widths and even thread types (or needles!) can also make a huge difference in the look of your stitches.