Originally Posted by
OurWorkbench
It has been quite a while since I have tried twin needle sewing of any sort. You said you used new needles, but what size and are they sharps or universal? Also what kind/size of thread? I know is sounds weird, but I know it works, sometimes a smaller needle helps. Sometimes you might have to go with a topstitching needle, but I don't remember how small they go. I know you are trying to use what needles you have on hand, so topstitching needle might not be an option. It also seems like I loosened the top tension, but it looks like the instructions use a regular tension.
Looking at the instructions it also mentions to only thread one thread through the guide before the needle.
Do you have the Special Purpose Foot? Or are you using the General Purpose Foot?
I know the twin needle looks good on top, but are you happy with the ZZ on the back?
So - my suggestions would be to try with smaller needles, Special Purpose Foot, and maybe changing the tension and pressure.
Janey - Neat people never make the exciting discoveries I do.
I was just using my all purpose zig zag foot. Yes, it's a sharp needle, but it's also a 14 which I can see to thread without changing glasses.
I think the problem is the fabric I used to make the sample sandwich. It's a real dense fabric. I used it for cornerstones, backing and binding for a quilt a couple of quilts back. I thought about it yesterday after I posted. It was hard to get the needle through when I hand stitched the binding on the back.
You're right, I'm not too fond of the look on the back. I didn't remember it did that (if I ever knew). I like the way it looks on the front, especially using a serpentine line. I'm going to pass on it for this quilt, though. I just need to come up with a new plan, now.
Thanks for the help.
bkay