A little TLC goes a long way in assuring that the tool which allows us to explore our passion for quilting is always operating at its peak. At a minimum, I remove fabric lint between projects. 
When sewing with linty fabrics like flannel, I find it necessary to clean often throughout sewing the project. Some simple safeguards we should all follow are:
- changing machine needle after 3-4 hours sewing time,
- not sewing over pins,
- not using products such as canned air to clean the hook area. Lint can be forced up into the machine,
- always removing faceplate and hook; cleaning the areas with the brush provided with your machine,
- keeping machine covered when not in use.
These are just a few basic tips. Post a comment about other tips that you use regularly.
Quilting on the Road!