I recently bought this machine to put on my Gracie II frame. Got it all set up after playing with her to get a good feel for how she sews.....which was wonderful. Now that she is on the frame, my thread keeps breaking as she speeds up. I am thinking it is either the needle or thread causing my problems, so was wondering what size needle I should use on the frame and/or what size and type of thread I should try. When the speed is slow, there are no problems, just when she is sewing fast is when the thread breaks.

are you using thread meant for long arm quilting or embroidery?

i prefer to work with thread meant for use this type of use because it can withstand the high speeds.

right now my favorite is glide but there are many threads on the market for this type of use.

I haven't changed the needle that she came with yet, and was just using plain 100% cotton thread. Just wondering which would be the best combination to start my trial and error process with. Any help is greatly appreciated.......

i use any type thread with my Juki on the frame... no problems. but i have a large needle on it so i can thread it easily. i can't recall the number, but it is large like a jeans needle. best wishes

Thanks Nan, I will try a larger needle and see how that does.....

Welp I tried using a different needle, now it won't pick up the bobbin thread........waaaaa! What am I doing wrong? Please help!

needle size has nothing to do with the frame- the needle size/type needs to be the correct one for the thread you are using-
the problem is probably the thread- sometimes it is necessary to try 2 or 3 different threads before you find one that will work for free motion quilting-
the machine goes too fast for a cotton thread you would normally use for piecing- poly threads tend to be a better choice for machine quilting. and the weight of the thread needs to work with the needle you are using- some eyes are small and will fray and break threads that are too heavy- some are shaped differently-
visit the Superior Thread Company web site- they have free charts showing all the different needles- what they are for- and what threads to use with them and for what....a great chart to have.