Originally Posted by
Stitchnripper
I don't even lower feed dogs anymore, just put stitch length at zero.
This is a good idea - try this and see if it doesn't immediately improve the number of stitches you're getting.
When I first started piecing quilts a few years ago, the 401 was the one I quilted them on. I didn't know at the time that this model can be problematic for fmq because of the horizontal bobbin and the results include a LOT of skipped stitches.
I get
acceptable quilting on the 401, but not great. Good enough for wall-hangings or table runners - not so much on quilts that intend to show on both sides. So if you're managing to get some quilting done after you lower the darning plate, but it's not the high quality of stitching that you're looking for, understand that it's probably more due to the machine than to you.
If you can find a 15-90 or 15-91 or an older Kenmore from the 70's, you'll have a big class 15 bobbin that's vertically oriented and has plenty of room under the arm. Add a Magic Genie Bobbin Washer and the stitching on the back of your quilts will look as nice as the stitching on the front.
