Sorry to hijack this thread, but could someone please help a Qatar redemption newbie:

I am looking to get J seats from anywhere in Europe to BKK between Christmas and New Year - none have been available the last three months. Do I keep checking, and they may be offered up closer in, (like on BA), or do Qatar severely limit their avios seats and I should try another airline? Should I have hope or have I missed the boat. Thank you!