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Help with fmq

Help with fmq

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Old 09-16-2015, 04:05 AM
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Default Help with fmq

QUESTION - when I fmq, the top thread breaks frequently and I have to stop and rethread. I have a Husqvarna and it sets the tension automatically. Any suggestions?
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Old 09-16-2015, 04:14 AM
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Try a larger needle. Good luck.
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Old 09-16-2015, 04:22 AM
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As Sheri.a says a larger needle! Also try a topstitch needle if you are not already using one. Move slower. Check that your thread is moving freely, sometimes my thread catches on a notch on the spool or wraps around the spool peg and causes breakage.
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Old 09-16-2015, 05:43 AM
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I also have a Viking, but I can override the tension setting. Check your manual (and also used a larger needle)
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Old 09-16-2015, 05:59 AM
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I gave up FMQ on my Viking. it was fine going in about 355 degrees, but I'd have missed stitches and broken thread going in one specific direction ( it happened to be moving fabric to the right and slightly foward from the needle) . I worked around it by moving the fabric so I never went that direction to finish my project. Now I use a different machine for FMQ that does not have that particular quirk.
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Old 09-16-2015, 06:40 AM
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I have to use a size 18 to do FMQ on any of my machines. Also sometimes helps to have a finer weight of thread. I find that combination works the best for me.
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Old 09-16-2015, 07:19 AM
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What thread are you using? Should be new thread. I like cotton thread & it typically doesn't need thread conditioner, but sometimes that helps prevent breakage.
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Old 09-16-2015, 09:01 AM
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it does depend on the thread I would use a 5o wt or even lighter. Use a extra thread holder
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Old 09-16-2015, 10:02 AM
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I FMQ with a 14 needle on my Bernina with no problem using Mettler Silk wrapped thread. What thread are you using? Certain machines have an aversion to specific thread. I can't use C&C on my Bernina.
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Old 09-16-2015, 10:11 AM
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​Try a strong but thin thread like Aurifil for FMQing.
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