suz1

I have a Bernina 440 and have recently decided to learn how to FMQ. I've been using the bsr and everything has been going well until today. When I plugged the bsr in I only got the option for bsr2. Has anyone else had problems with their bsr not giving the bsr1 and bsr2 options?

Thanks for any help

OhCanada

Yeah, I’ve seen this happen. To stitch in BSR2 mode I unplug my foot pedal. Can’t get BSR1 mode until pedal is plugged back in. I always keep my manual handy when using BSR, especially if I haven’t used it for awhile. Be aware that it does not work very well on spray basted quilts. I find mine very finicky - skipping stitches. Next time I am in Ottawa I will bring it in to the dealer and see if they will update it for me and replace the spring.

rryder

Hey OhCanada- I've discovered some anti-glue needles that are made by Organ. When I'm FMQ a quilt that is heavily spray basted I put one of those in at the first sign of a skipped stitch and voila, no more skipped stitches. So far the only ones I've been able to find are on Amazon. They are called Organ Embroidery Anti-Glue. Maybe they'll help you as well.

Rob

QuiltE

Suz1 ... agree with OhCanada ... check that your foot pedal is plugged in for BSR1 to work for you.
I've been stumped in reverse to you ... seldom use BSR2 and when I decide to try it again, I can get stumped at first as to why it will not work right for me!



My quilts are are spray basted ... and probably considered heavily so.
I have done miles of FMQing with the BSR but with no problems (beyond operator instigated ).

Try different types of needles ... Embroidery or Topstitch are my go-to's.
Though not the only ones that I use. Just where I normally start.


Variables to consider, that can affect FMQing success ...
* Fabric -- batiks, light/heavier cottons, loose/tight weaves, bling/coatings (probably there's a better word/term for that) etc.
* Seams and Layers -- lots of them? vs. lots of wide open space to FMQ?
* Batting -- different types/blends
* Thread -- type, weight
* Needles -- type, size (... and make sure they are sharp!)
* Tension -- adjust accordingly
* Stitch Length

No doubt ... lots more to factor in, but these are what have come to mind right now.
Others can add ....

sewingsuz

I have trouble With my bsr also and used a quilting needle and that helped. Sometimes it works good and sometime I want to give up. Maybe it is me, I don't know. I use BSR1 for the most part.