I bought some when I first bought my machine. The dealer said I would need it to do cards. I tried it once and had the same experience as you so I haven't tried again. I've managed very well without it! No stupid questions by the way! Keep asking - it is how we all learn.

I use washaway sticky (vilene) all the time with no issues of it gumming up the needle (I hoop nothing but stabilizer for all of my projects - and many times it is the sticky vilene). What brand did you try? Others may have some experience with it and be able to help.

I just used it yesterday ans did two big fluffy towels and had no trouble with gumming up. I use babyloc dissolve away mesh. I also used it on my cards. I have been using it ever since I have had my machine, no problems. LOL

I use it when I embroider on projects I cannot hope, like caps or stretch shirts. I like to use the sticky : stick and tear away stabilizer. I've never had problems by using it. Sorry your experiences were not good. Perhaps there are several kinds of this kind of stabilizer.

Sticky is necessary is certain situations. If you are in the States, I heard that Aquavelva (men's aftershave) works really well to get off the sticky! Live Laugh Download Stitch!