I'm practicing FMQ , and am getting large needle holes in the fabric. I'm using a 90/14 needle. Also, sometimes the holes are in the fabric but the stitches aren't being made. I rethreaded the machine, put in a full bobbin and put in a new needle. I'm certain someone is going to mention tension. How can I tell if the tension is right or not? On a positive note, the practice I did drawing has paid off. I'm very pleased with the designs I'm making.

What weight thread are you using and brand. Sounds like your needle is too large for the thread.

a 90 needle is too large unless you have thick thread.
For regular 50 thread the 80 needle is large enough.

I just use my 80's with regular 40 or 50 threads for FMQ ~ only go to the 90's with decoratives or special thick threads

I'm using Gutterman cotton thread. The spool says 50. The only other needles I have are 75/11. If you had to choose between a 90 and 75, which would you choose?

When I use Superior 40 wt(K.Tut) or metallics, I have a 90/14 as recommended by them and its fine. But for 50 wt (eg Mettler) I use 80/12 or even 75/11 quilting. But if it appears "holey" it closes up after washing anyway. Sometimes if you have a 40 wt and a fine bobbin thread like Bottom Line with a 90/14 it does appear that there are holes, but the washing deals with it.

A new size 12/80 needle should take care of the problem. A quilting needle is sharper than a universal needle and will go between the fibers better. Universals have a slightly rounded tip so you can sew knits without holes. A used needle can be dull or have a tiny burr and cause holes.

Schmertz quilting size 12 is my needle of choice. I do use universals for a lot of fabrics unless I see a problem occurring just because I have so many around from my apparel sewing days.

Edit: Go with the 75. Keep the 90 for hemming jeans. I often sew with 70s.

I switched to a 75 needle. Problem solved. Thanks everyone!

I agree with the others, your needle is too big. I bought a single whole plate for my Janome for piecing and FMQ .....that did the trick.

LivelyLady, can you tell more about why a single whole plate works better for FMQ? Thanks!