quilter53

What thread do you use when FMQ. I have used both cotton and poly/cotton covered thread. I have changed size needles 12 and 14. Any ideas. I do have this problem ever so often. I just change until I find a solution. Any ideas. I have FMQ for a long time but don't have all the answers. :lol: The one with all the answers please step forward. :wink:

TonnieLoree

I'm taking a step back, since I don't have all the answers. It happens to me as well, and I have done the same as you by changing the needle and different threads. I can't figure it out. I think that is just one of the casualties of FMQ.

katier825

My favorite thread is Aurifil 100% cotton 50 WT thread. I don't have many thread breakages.

Have you tried to adjust the tension? Maybe it needs to loosen up a little? Another thought - what kind of foot are you using? Could your foot be catching on previously quilted sections and pulling? I had that problem with an open foot. I like the closed one for that reason.

quilter53

There are times it's a breeze, no thread breaking, no dragging, you know everything goes smooth. But then there are times, ooh. :roll: I'm thinking the background material I used may be the problem. That is what I'm quilting right now. It may not be 100% cotten. It's a scrappy table topper.

quilter53

No I haven't adjusted tension. I have a D1 and usually it is adjusted accordingly. I am using a FMQ stitch where the feed dogs are dropped automatically. The foot is small round and clear, not open but is the same I always use. No it isn't catching on other stitches. I may try the tension change. Thank you.

suebee

Hello - well I DONT have ALL the answers but thought I'd run a couple things past you. Are you using a "cone" of thread or a spool? have you loosened your top tension?

If your using a cone of thread, be sure you are using it with thread coming off the top of the cone (not cone laying down) does that make sense?

quilter53

Just a regular spool.

suebee

OK, try the tension then, different fabrics and battings have different results. I used to be afraid to adjust my tension, but not anymore. If you adjust your top tension, you may have to adjust your bobbin as well. Stitch on a practice piece as your adjusting your tension.

Ive learned alot from Bob @ Superior Threads, what needles to use with what types of thread and tension etc.... here is a link to a Thread Guide that is awesome. I have printed it out and placed it on the wall by my machines.
http://www.superiorthreads.com/media...HOME_10-10.pdf

craftybear

thanks for the link

quilter53

SueBee thank you for the chart. I printed it out. I changed the top tension. It didn't break as often but is still breaking.