This is the reason I use water soluble spray to baste for FMQ. Also have used a tag gun but prefer the spray. Don't have to wrestle with the pins or worry about running over one with the machine. A lot easier on the hands and faster. Ann in TN

Heartfelt hugs to you! I didn't realize hitting a pin could cause so much damage! I thought a broken needle would be the extent of the damage. I will really be more cautious now - thanks for the warning! Maybe you could get a loner from the repair shop or a friend... good luck!

Do you think that the dealer where you bought the Viking could give you a loaner, so you could finish your quilts by Christmas? If not the dealer then how about the repair man? Just a thought. Good luck with either.

Blessings to you I know the pain of a broken machine.

http://zanesville.craigslist.org/for/2644648594.html I don't know if it is still there but it might be less expensive than a repair to find a deal like this. $200 isn't too much for one of these.

I am sorry that you had a huge, expensive error. But after reading the replies, all of you please accept my thanks for sharing your challenges. Instead of looking at them as mishaps or errors maybe look at them as a 'TERRIFIC TRAINING OPPORTUNITY" I am just starting to learn how to do the free motioning, and have filed these comments under, 'DON'T TRY THESE THINGS AT HOME' Thanks again and I truly appericate all that have shared.

Aww, I'm so sorry you hit the pin and bent the needle shaft. And at the worst possible time. I agree with some others that say you should have a back up machine. I currently have three machines that FMQ. I'm never on a deadline with my projects but if I ever need another machine, I've got it. Good luck getting your projects done for the Christmas deadline.

Oh, I'm so sad for you and your machine. Have you considered buying a simple, used machine to fill in? You might look on craig's list, or eBay. I'll bet you can find one under $100 and after the holidays, you can resell it.

~ Cindy

I feel your frustration. I used to break needles just doing regular sewing until a friend told me to sew very slowly over pins. Sewing slowing gives the needle a chance to adjust for the pin. This is for regular sewing. With FM quilting, I think sewing over pins will never work due to the speed of the moving needle. I ordered special hoops from Creative Feet to FM. Haven't received them yet, but they are suppose to eliminate the need for pinning. Does anyone on this broad have these special hoops? If so, what do you think of them?