Hello SilverForgeStudio! Thanks for replying. I'm down on the Virginia/Tennessee line...little town called Bristol. I think the closest place to me that is a dealer for Consew machines is Glen's Sewing Machines in Highpoint, NC. I haven't called them yet to ask about my machine because I didn't buy it from them. Just thought I'd try to find the answer to my question on the internet before I call them. It's kind of hard to diagnose over the phone and I'm sure I can "adjust" whatever need adjusting... just need to be pointed in the right direction. The operating manual is very vague.