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HELP!!! What have I done to my bobbin case?

HELP!!! What have I done to my bobbin case?

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Old 02-04-2011, 03:39 PM
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I was getting ready to machine quilt a baby quilt, so I got out my practice sandwich. Big eyelashes on the back. So I tightened the top tension and it was getting better, but still not there. I cleaned out the bobbin race area and adjusted my bobbin tension a half screw lighter. Had to do it 3 times to get the thread coming through easier. Adjusted the top tension down a little to match, and now I'm breaking thread. It's WAY off. My bobbin case was marked, so I adjusted back to the original setting, but I'm still breaking thread. Help me before I have to take my baby to the doctor!
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Old 02-04-2011, 03:43 PM
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Make sure you are using the same thread on the top and bottom...rethread both top and bottom. Good luck.
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Old 02-04-2011, 03:48 PM
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I hold the bobbin case in one hand, then take the thread coming out of it and hang it from the thread with the other hand. The thread should not come out more unless it is jerked. If it has to be jerked hard for the thread to come out, the tension is too tight. If you can't hold the bobbin case by the thread without more thread coming out, the tension is too loose.

Once you are sure the bobbin tension is approximately right, you will have to readjust your top tension. It is probably too tight now. Test the tension balance by using your widest zigzag stitch. This will show a tension imbalance more clearly than a straight stitch.

Also check to make sure that the thread coming off the spool is not getting hung up on the spool. You may also need to clean between the upper tension discs; a tiny piece of thread caught in there will cause the tension to be too high and the thread to break while sewing.
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Old 02-04-2011, 03:50 PM
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Same thread top and bottom, new needle, everything that can be reached with small brush is now lint free. Same bobbin that was working just fine before I thought I was smart enough to mess with it.
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Old 02-04-2011, 04:20 PM
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ok...it's working again. Went on chat and got some great advice (clean it-duh!) That one stupid teeny tiny piece of thread in the bobbin case finally showed itself and I got it! Thanks for the help!
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Old 02-04-2011, 04:39 PM
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happy feet dancing --no one likes the Dr.s
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Old 02-04-2011, 07:12 PM
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love it when i find it hate it when i cant
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