My machine breaks thread
 

I decided that using 50 wt. cones were the only thing that worked on my computerized sewing machine. I was fine with that because I had no choice. But, I wanted to machine bind my quilt and the thread was a spool of thicker weight and I was going to do a zig zag on it. Well, my machine would do a few stitches and the top thread would get so tight it would snap. I had to get my old machine out and do it on it.

Okay, what does it mean when the top thread gets really tight and snaps? Is it the tension? And why would it get so tight with (I don't know the weight) of spools of Mettler thread. I can tell it's thicker than the 50 wt., but I don't know the weight of it. They are the small spools. Any help?

My Mettler thread is 40 weight, which is "average" weight. When I've had that problem, it was due to improper threading of the machine . . . or the thread getting caught in that little slit, on the spool.

usually if my thread gets really tight it is because either it is wrapping around the spool holder (under the spool) or is threaded incorrectly- maybe wrapped around something . it must be catching on something. if it is heavier than what you have been using you may need to loosen the tension a little on top- but it sounds as if it's catching/wrapping on something. good luck i hope you can figure it out. you should be able to use many different weights of threads without this happening. if it continues you may want to call your dealer & ask them for a hint/tip- advice. if you are using cones what kind of cone holder are you using- could it be catching somewhere traveling from the cone through the thread guides?...just trying to guess possible causes...

I've had that problem with my Brother Innovis 4000D and learned that I have to loosen the top tension down to a 3, it's normally set at 4. I'd also use a larger needle, I only use topstitch needles now for my quilting and binding. either a 90/14 or 100/16. The only other thing I can think of is that your tension discs are dirty but if it's only with the thicker thread, then that's probably not it. You could always try cleaning them though, I use a piece of dental floss to clean my discs occasionally. Hope that helps a bit, it's really frustrating when your thread keeps breaking!

It's not catching on anything and it's not threaded improperly. That I know of for certain. I had problems for 2 1/2 years with the thread breaking and finally bought a cone of 50 wt. and no more problems. I guess I should talk to my dealer. I like to do machine applique and I use different colors and small spools, so I have to get it figured out. To make the tension less tight, do I go up in numbers or down in numbers? Sorry, I'm not wise to this part.

On my machines I turn the tension back from 3 to 2 or more. I have vintage machines, I don't know how new ones work.

Thread the machine and leave the presser foot up. Pull the thread thru. If it doesn't pull thru easily then it's hanging up somewhere along the thread path.

I used a size 12 thread in my Janome. I used a size 100/16 needle and loosened the tension up to a 2 and didn't have a single problem with thread shredding or breaking.

Try turning the upper tension *down* in number. If it's at a 5, try 4. If it still breaks, try 3.

It may also be that your needle eye is too small for the thread. What size needle do you have in the machine? Using a topstitch needle can help because the eye is larger than the eye of a regular needle, creating less stress on the thread.

It's normal to change the upper tension to accommodate specific threads; you really need to experiment with that. The upper thread has to go through the needle eye many times, which is why it is important to use a large-enough needle to accommodate the thread. It's normal to change to a larger needle when using heavier weight thread.

Thank you. I will try a topstitch needle and turn my tension down. Hopefully that will work.

what is a top stitch needle/

Righty tighty, lefty loosey

I use a topstitch needle for all sewing and quilting. I rarely have a thread problem as long as I use the right size needle for the thread weight. Also be sure the spool of thread is wound to be used vertically or horizontal. Most are for vertical. Manufacturers went to horizontal spool pins because it's cheaper, not better.