The "thumb" I was talking about is not the one associated with the bobbin case; it's a piece of the bobbin case housing within the machine.

Here's a fw troubleshooting article I found on a quick Google. It shows the correct positioning for that metal "finger" I tried to describe:
http://www.suite101.com/content/comm...problem-a50918

However, an even more common problem is threading the needle in the wrong direction.

The thread goes in from right to left! It's probably the problem. Try it again! :thumbup: :thumbup:

I tend to agree with this suggestion. From the right to the left.

Don't forget, the bobbin goes in the case the 'other' way round too. (at least, I am pretty sure that's the case).

thread from the side of the last thread guide.

Try threading from right to left... that is how it is to be threaded and it should sew nicely. I think everyone that has a FW had threaded incorrectly and found out! If that doesn't help, a trip to the dr is called for. Call you Quilt shop or even Joanns for a name of a repairman. There should be many around. :) Maybe look in the yellow pages online as well. Good Luck

One more thing to check...there might be a little burr of metal on the needle plate above or below the hole the needle goes down thru, usually caused by a needle hitting the hole side. It is hard to see, but will snag and cause thread breakage. Only way to check for it is by feel, be careful as it can cut your finger--found out the hard way! I used an emery board to smooth away the burr.

And also a burr on the needle will cause thread to break

I'd go back and offer less. You might call a repair shop, explain the problem and see what they would charge to fix it, than offer accordingly.

LOL as I read these suggestions ; as only one woman to another could follow them!