more thread shredding

[eula]

It seems like this is a common problem for newbies such as myself. Does this mean that the experienced quilters don't have a problem going backwards sometimes or because of your experience, you have learned how not to go backwards? I'm echoing around several applique fish right now. I really can't figure out how I could keep from going backwards at some point. I start out going left to right but then when I get around to the bottom of the fish I have to go from right to left to get back to the top of the fish. And that's when my thread shreds. I just finished oiling & cleaning the bobbin area with the WD40 etc. Popped out that little thingy inside the bobbin case & cleaned under it. Put in a new needle. I believe my bobbin tension is fine. Maybe the top tension is too tight - not really sure. This is my first real quilt.

Just curious!

[ffq-lar]

Hi--try loosening the top tension after you change the needle. If it shreds at the needle it is usually a burr on the needle. If it is shredding beyond (under) the needle, there may be a burr on the needle plate. When you loosen the top tension, adjust the bottom as well if you had nice stitches before the shredding. All you are looking for is balance between the two threads--loosen one, loosen the other until you have nice stitches. Good luck. What type of thread are you using?

[eula]

Thanks, I'm using Bottom Line on top & in bobbin. I'll try loosening the tension. I would be surprised if I had a burr problem. I haven't had this machine for long. It came from the factory. This is my 1st real quilt. I did a practice piece on muslin before trying this quilt out.

[KathyA]

when I get this I loosen my top tension til I get railroad tracks on the back when using my practice piece. I then keep adjusting the top tension until no more rr-tracks. that way I have the tension as loose as possible on top to avoid shredding if it's tension related. Only challenge - watch for loops on the back. If that happens give the top tension about a 3/4 turn. Good Luck. Shredding thread drives me NUTS.

[RitaR]

can always call APQS and talk with Amy or Christie

[Nadia Wilson]

Is your quilt sandwich too tight on the frame? Bottomline thread is a really easy thread to use. I quilt in every direction with my machine.

Have you broken any needles while quilting on your machine? If so, that could have put a small nick on your bobbin case assembly unit, and the thread could be snagging on it when you stitch in that direction.

[eula]

I think my quilt sandwich was too tight. I haven't broken any needles. Thanks for the suggestions.

[kennan100]

What batting are you using? You might have the scrim side up and that's rough on threads. What kind of fabric? Batiks may be the same way. They are just rough. Since it's Monday the office should be open and Amy will be there.

[SandraG]

Also check under the tension finger on the bobbin case. Lint builds up and can cause shredding and tension problems. Clean under it regularly. I also pop out the spring and clean and oil under it. Actually, every now and then, I collect all of my bobbin cases and clean, oil, check for nicks and burrs and shine with a soft cloth. I also check my metal bobbins for nicks and burrs and make sure they are still round (not warped).

I used to keep my quilt top really tight but Dawn talked me into at least trying to quilt with it looser. It works great.

Once you work with your threads a little more, you will learn the personality of your machine and things will be great.

Sandra