Help! What needle to use!
 

I just bought a Juki 2010q, which so far has been awesome for piecing. However; I bought it to fmq. I started quilting, things were going good and then I started having tension issues. Rethreaded, changed needles, changed bobbin, cleaned. Still issues. It occurred to me that maybe the needles that came with the machine are too small for my 30wt variegated thread, I would love to buy more needles that are 16/100 but I can't figure out which brand. My machine came with Organ needles and the manual states I need HA x1 or HA x 5 needles. I see needles everywhere that have the H but not the HA x1. Does any one know if I can use schmetz needles in this machine? I have no access to Organ needles at any shops here and I really need to get this done. Any input would be so appreciated! Thank you. I have spent over two hours researching on the internet and just have not come up with any info.

The best I've found for FMQ using the 30 wt and thicker threads are Superior Titanium Topstich needles in the 100/16 size. They seem to last forever and cure many tension issues.

You should be able to buy them online.

You shouldn't have any problem with the Schmetz needles. If you can't find a 100/16, get a Jeans needle. You need that bigger eye and the groove on the shank of the needle.

I've used Schmetz in mine. Are you positive you are threading it correctly? I have had mine since March and never had to touch the tension at all for any thread that I've used.

Here is a source for Organ Needles. I haven't ordered them yet, but probably will in a month or two when I run low.

http://www.ctsusa.com/_e/Singer/prod...S15x1/15x1.htm

I checked, I'm definitely threading it right. It's not horrible tension issues, I can just see the top thread on the underside of my quilting. I am using two different color threads because my backing is forest green and the top is in multiple shades, so my top thread is a variegated beige. ...Thank you for your response.

Thank you!

when i had my juki, i used a Jeans needle that I got at walmart.

I have a Juki TL98QE (which means it did not come w/extension table) and a Babylock Jane. Neither machine like the schmetz needles.
I buy Organ needles online all the time, size 12-14 and 16. I would pay attention to what the manual says.

this answered my question I've been holding onto. 16 seemed what I need too for my Horizon and the mettler thread I'm using.

Topstitch needles have a large eye and a bigger groove on the shank as well - sounds like that "jeans" needle is similar..