I did talk with the dealer and they are more than willing to help--they suggested to first try the purple needle. I'd like to try and resolve this without having to take my machine into them if possible. They are a good 25 minutes away and its a heavy machine--but yes, I think they will try and help further if it can't be resolved with some of these suggestions or the ones on MSQC's board.

I do note that I have just finished some additional piecing on my batik top and this time no skipped stitches--but I have changed away from the 1/4" piecing foot and am not using the regular standard foot. I am also using a 90/14 sharp.

No batting yet--I did put a purse together on this machine, at least most of the purse. No problems--just piecing.

We have Schmetz and Klasse needles around here and a few Janome dealerships that will sell their needles, of course--is there an online resource for Organ brand needles?

Hope this issue resolves itself soon. These machines (7700, 8200, 8900) are unfortunately known for their difficulty in sewing over multiple/thicker seams, regardless of needle, etc. I owned a 7700 and switched it out for a Juki.

DDIL's machine was doing that. I tried everything, and was ready to send her to a dealer for repair. Noticed the needle looked funny so I decided to change it. She had changed the needle and put it in backward. Turned the needle around and the problem was solved. Remember, not all machines thread from the same direction.

As Patrice said, the solution is use Janome or Organ needles.
My 6600 will use any needle, but not the 8900. It almost drove me mad at first. Until I bought some Janome purple needles - end of problem.
My machine doesn't think much of the Janome red or blue needles either. I have to use the purple, or Organ HAx1SP Super 90 originals. These have the snake tip same as the purple Janomes.
Piecing and fmq is now a dream on it.

So good to hear--now to get some needles. My LQS is out of purple.