Sewing Woe

[yunikoneko.livejournal.com]

Before I pay the big bucks to consult a pro about my misbehaving machine, I was wondering if any of you have had an issue with bobbin thread coming out of the shuttle during sewing (thus screwing up the tension) and happen to know a fix for it. Do I need a new shuttle, or are my problems bigger than that?

I wouldn't be surprised if the problem was the machine's construction, itself, as I have a Brother XL-3010 which I procured off Craigslist (for a mere $25) eight months ago. I mean, at best it'd have been a mid-range machine if new, but I sort of doubt it. It was barely touched by the original owner and although I've used it quite a lot, I oil it regularly and air blast out any lint from the inner workings when things get fuzzy.

Anyway, if anyone knows a fix for this, I'd be grateful. And if not, I guess it's time to start shopping for a Janome...