I don't have a long arm machine, but with my regular machine, and my brother quilting machine, I only use the nylon in the top, regular thread in the bobbin, top tension is looser than usual, thread is off the machine, on a cone stand, or in a jar, not on a horizontal holder, needs to be vertical. I don't use the mesh net. Also I use a fine needle, #10 or smaller and make sure it is a sharp needle, not a universal. Hope you are able to get the thread to cooperate. I am wanting to try the invisible polyester from Superior threads.