If you use cheap paper pads from dollar store, it tears easily. Not too many bits of paper remaining. I fold the paper over seam and it tears easily as it is perforated anyways. I do learn from everyone's hints with their sewing machines, always figure it is worth a try.

I saw a great tip recently where you should start sewing 1/4 to 1/2" in then backstitch to the edge of the fabric then sew forward. Works.

I have same machine, sometimes it works to hold the threads tightly at the beginning but I almost always use a "leader" cloth to start off which. I know you can buy a straight stitch needle plate but don't want to spend the money. P.S. I am also a "beaglelady" Love those beagles!

To quilting in my 60s - Hello to another beagle lover! Aren't they just the cutest friendliest dogs!

That's an easy fix, most machine will eat the fabric in the beginning. If you could just hold the thread down for a second when you begin, problem solved. Some people use a piece of scrap fabric to start but I found the first way to be the simplest. Try it, it works!

If only it were that simple. For some machines/fabric it might be but it doesn't always work for everyone and every situation.