Did you make sure that the wheel that you loosen when you wind the bobbin has been tightened again to move the feed dogs? Do you know the wheel and knob that I am talking about? It is usually on the top far right of the machine, and is what drives the belt that makes the machine work. There is a knob/wheel in the center of the larger wheel, and it must be turned into position to engage the feed dogs.

I really like paper piecing and have use all the above papers at some time. My favorite is the cheapest copier paper I can find. Like Teresa said I don't see why you would have to see throught it but even copier paper is seen through if held to the light. I fold every line before I start. This gives me a visual on the side for the fabric and helps in the removal of the paper when it is finished. I also use very small stitches. Cathy(woodenzoo), although I have a roll of the pattern tracing paper I have not actually tried it. I think however it would be especially good if I wanted several of the same pattern and sewed through a stack with a needle only technique which someone mentioned above. I have used regular tracing paper that comes in a pad but my experience is when I press it with the iron on each seam it becomes brittle and sometimes comes off the fabris before I'm ready. I,too, think you paid a lot for the paper. PP is so much fun don't let paper be a reason not to do it. At that price I'd be reluctant to do much. Just my opinion. Sally

I think I would ask who makes Brother machines. I know the Viking dealer here also sells Brother and Singer. I have Viking, Bernina, SInger and Kenmore. Out of all of them I love the Bernina the best. I can go from sewing heavy material to sewing a light weight bastiste without changing a thing. I know I should change the needle, the thread and the "stitch advisor" (VIking)...but not on the Bernina. If you can list the Singer on Craigslist or in the paper or at your local Extension Office. 4H starts soon and that beginner sewer may just love your machine. I let my beginners use the Kenmore and the Singer to take home and use to get the projects and they love them. Have fun

Be sure to inquire about good, used sewing machines that have been traded in. I traded my Bernina artista 165 in on an artista 200 after three months (had to have that color embroidery screen, y'know!). On the computerized ones, your dealer (or his/her technician) can most likely tell you how many hours the trade-in has on it (unless it has had a mother board replaced, which will then show it with zero hours, like new). You can really get some good deals on gently used machines. Be sure to sit down and sew with it on material YOU bring from home, types of fabric you are likely to use regularly. Needle up/down feature is really nice, and it's important to get one that does nice buttonholes. I believe in buying the best you can possibly afford b/c you will definitely grow into it, especially if you take advantage of the free lessons most dealers offer. Mary