The left/right twist thing must be why when I thread a hand sewing needle befor cutting the length, I don't get those pesky knots while stitching.

Wow, you guys are GREAT! I'm becoming a thread expert. I love the diagrams too. Very helpful. I did go back to the dealer yesterday for something and he showed me how left twist and right twist looks. He said that typically you don't have a problem with the higher quality thread. But it really sounds like people use all kinds of thread, as long as the twist is right. But am I also getting that maybe serger thread is not so good? I thought those big cones might be great on my Gracie. I guess I can hold it up and see which way it twists, now that I understand that. I think I'll go read the thread information site. :)

Someone asked for a picture of my new machine so here is a pic of my new Janome 1600P QC next to my Janome Memory Craft 10,000. I knew there was a lot more throat space but WOW, seeing them side by side!

And thanks for all of your other support. Some of your comments are cracking me up!

Thank you! Hmmm...I haven't named any of my machines before. Maybe I should? :)

Bostons,
I wonldn't use serger thread for anything but serging. Serger thread is only a 2 ply and much thinner than regular thread. If you use regular thread in the serger, you get a thicker seam because it's 3 ply. I would never use it for any quilting unless you are serge piecing the quilt. Then you are using lots of thread and it will hold together.

Thank you for posting this great document on thread and needles. It is so helpful.
Debi

Oh thank you!!! No wonder it feels so different too. Okay, I will save it for my sergers. :)

Yes, thanks Scissor Queen. I now have a bookmarked section on my computer just for thread thanks to all of the helpful people here!

You have a wonderful machine with lots of great features. Enjoy it and congratulations.

I am so sorry that someone felt that they had run down the machine that you purchased. In my opinion we all purchase what we can afford or what we need. I think it is great that you got a new machine. I do not post what machine I have for that very reason. I pray that you enjoy your sewing experience with your new machine.

Hand sewing thread is twisted differently than machine thread. That is why I always frown when I see people buying hand thread for their machine. Hope this helps