Hi Lisa,

Congrats on your new addition in the family. What a sweet gift.

Recently, I learned that Singer needles are slightly shorter than other needles. I am not sure about that, maybe one day I will take the time to actually measure my needles. I have a less expensive Singer machine (9960) and use all brands of needles in it. But I do have a Singer Embroidery machine and it also says to only use Singer needles. So, my advice to you is to be safe and use the Singer needles. The Titanium needles are great and really do stay sharp longer than other brands.

As for the prewounds, I think it may be because of the quality of the bobbin used with prewounds. If you are using an embroidery machine, you don't want wonky bobbins. So, buy good bobbins and wind them yourself.

Janome now owns Singer. If you like Janome, just remember the newer Singers are made by them.

This is a Singer machine: Amazon.com: Singer S18 Studio Computerized High Performance Quilting and Sewing Machine

Same machine-Janome: Amazon.com: Janome Memory Craft 6500P / MC6500P Computerized Sewing Machine w/ FREE BONUS Package!