The top stitch on my machine doesn't seem like it is correct. It seems like it isn't going deep enough into the fabric and hooking well w/ the bottom thread. It almost looks like one long stitch all the way across the fabric instead of the little stitches. (not sure how to word this!)

Hi. I think I know what you mean--the top thread looks like it's just laying across the fabric, right? This is because either the top tension is too tight or the bobbin tension is too loose. (Either condition will look the same.) Try it with a different color thread in the bobbin, you can easily see the bobbin thread cross the top thread on top of your fabric. Here's what to do:

1. since you should hardly ever need to adjust the bobbin thread, we'll start with the top thread.
   
2. Make sure you thread the machine with the pressure foot UP (opens the tension disks) but adjust the tension with the pressure foot DOWN (closes them so they will adjust). Use a size 12 or 14 needle and good-quality thread (it does make a huge difference!)
   
3. With different color thread on top and in the bobbin, stitch an inch or so and check the stitch.
   
4. Slightly loosen the top tension (move the dial so the numbers go lower). Don't move it a lot, just a little bit.
   
5. Stitch again and check. Repeat this process, stitching, checking, and gradually adjusting the tension dial until you don't see any of the bobbin thread on the top (or very, very little) and don't see any of the top thread on the underside (or very, very little).
   
6. IF this doesn't get the balance adjusted, then you'll have to play with the bobbin tension. (But generally, once this is set, you shouldn't have to mess with it again.)
7. There is a tiny screw on the bobbin carrier that tightens or loosens a very small metal strip (where the thread exits the carrier). To tighten the bobbin tension, screw this just a tiny bit to the right. (Turn it to the right to loosen the screw, to the left to tighten it.) Again, just make a small adjustment each time and recheck your stitches.