I've taken a couple of machine quilting classes and a lot of conversation is about using different threads. It seems that the secret to being successful with different types is to 1. adjust your tension accordingly, and 2. make sure you have the thread unwinding properly....cross wound thread doesn't like to be pulled from the top..it needs to be unwound directly (at the same height) to the "thingie" (yup, thats my technical term for it :roll: ) where you start to thread your machine. Other threads like to be unwound standing straight up and threaded through a tall hook....others can be unwound directly using the horizontal spool holder on the back of your machine. I think you pretty much just have to experiment to find the best combination for your machine. Good luck!