Plonk- spotlight did help! they showed me that i needed the same thread top and bottom (at least the same brand and weight) and that the position of the needle is adjusted by the length of zigzag dial on top. who knew? i even saw the needle threader in action.

i've been making pockets for a few months now and have gotten really good at it, and pretty fast(3hrs). word of mouth sales and friends getting an entire stash have kept me sewing till i can do it in my sleep. there's hardly any money in it: i earn $4 an hour (or less for friends), but i search for funky material for the outside and co-ordinating inners just to keep it interesting. But it's all worthwhile when i make a one of a kind, super cool nappy and see it on: my friend's bubs are stylin!

there are loads of online patterns and tutorials, all free, and i'm happy to help with any questions you've got.