I finally stitched one without a needle break! I took all of your suggestions: - 2 layers of backing - increased material thickness - pushed presser foot back slightly away from needle - lowered presser foot a couple of notches - used conventional cap frame Thanks to all who helped me get through this. No offense when I said I'd check out other machines, but I was ready to throw it out the door when I went through a pack of needles without completing a cap. One more question though, do you guys lay down some solvy on top to avoid sinking into the fabric? Lou