Some time ago, someone here (I can't remember who, sorry) was talking about Magic Washers (the teflon washers placed in the bobbin case before the bobbin). I had never heard of them and couldn't imagine how they could make a significant difference. I ordered some with my last order from Keepsake Quilting (thinking they wouldn't work and I'd prove it!!)

I have to apologize. These are the greatest little things!!! I couldn't prove you wrong.....I, in fact, proved you right!! I ordered them for my standard machine as well as my longarm and they work wonders eliminating backlashes and birdnests on the back of the quilt while free-motion quilting.

I love this board and know you are all awesome. This proves once again that you are full of wisdom and inspiration......and.....you did teach this old dog a new trick!!! Thank you.

OK, I will put that as urgent on my agenda! Do they work in any machine, old or new? I don't care I got to try them, I just now, this very minute finished meandering a full size quilt on the old 15. While it went pretty good, I think these washers may help! Thanks!

Cool, thanks for reporting back. I will need everything at my disposal when tackling FMQ, and they are pretty reasonably priced too.

Glad to know. When I get brave enough to try FMQ I'll have to remember this tip.

And after a while, you don't need them at all.At least that has been my experience. Magic is right!!

Thanks for the help!

What do they DO? Keep the bobbin turning smoothly?

Yes, I have been using Bobbin Genies for several years, in my Gammill and now my Viking Mega quilter (which I use for piecing quilts)
They are to replace the back lash spring that is in your bobbin case.
I love them so much I purchased several dozen, and Oh, you don't need that many in a life time. They last and last.
I use the same one in both M and L size bobins.
Sharon Schamberger (think) is the one that I saw them on.
Keeps your bobbin from spinning to fast when it needs to stop, hence a birds nest.

can you get them at hancocks or joanns?

They are great! Leah Day sells them on her website too.

Ok, I thought they were a gimmick. Guess I better put them on my shopping list. I know I could order on line, but what a great reason to go to an out of town quilt show Mother's Day weekend. I hear there is one in Arlington TX that weekend.

I've been using them ever since Sharon Schamber started posting about them on her website. Follow the directions and do take out the tension thingy in the bobbin case. It pops back in if you ever need it. One washer lasts a very long time and it's wafer thin. It stops the static from building up in the bobbin case.