I'm still learning as well, and I have the same type of problems--a jog in the stitch line when I start up again after shifting the fabric or longer stitches, etc. But I feel like I'm getting better at it. Practice is the answer. Do like Cyndi said--take small bites at a time; take lots of breaks, use gloves (I have the gloves as well and love them!). I need to get a slider and that's on my shopping list for my next trip to Keepsake Quilting.