I can certainly agree about keeping the manual. I currently have 3 machines and guard the manuals with my life (as well as the video that came with the Bernina). I’m an experienced seamstress (30+ years), but I still refer to the manuals at times. Even when you’ve done something dozens of times, you can “forget,” especially when you’re over 40 and are recovering from a serious head injury that seems to have sapped your short-term memory (hey–if it didn’t make into longterm memory, it’s gone now!!). If something’s not working, a quick check in the manual is sometimes all you need to realize you’re missing a step. It can happen to anyone, even if they didn’t suffer a blow to the head!!! If you have access to a video or DVD–WATCH IT!! They’re wonderful if you’re a visual learner, and you can even sew along with the video; just stop it if you need to so you’ll keep up. I only wish my new Janome had come with a video or DVD, although my dealer is wonderful about answering any questions I might have (every machine has different little quirks and features, so it’s a matter of becoming familiar with them). If you buy your machine from a supportive dealer, and you should, if possible, use them. They’re there to support you before, during and after the sale. If you think they won’t be, consider buying somewhere else if you can.

_________________Vanessa

Mother to James, Sarah, Aaron, Adam and David