Boy, I hope someone out there can help. I am trying to zigzag an applique with invisible thread. Is it possible? I am using that as my top thread and regular thread in the bobbin. The thread does not pick up the bobbin thread. It will be great for about 10 stitches and then skips all over. I have a Viking Designer II and tension is built in. I have threaded and re-threaded several times. Any other clues to success? Thank you, Lynne

I don't like using invisible thread for just that reason. I have Vikings and they don't like different threads in bobbin & top. My machines have been very finicky with the monofilament thread. You may try a different needle; that may help. Personally I would try to applique with a thread close to the fabric color. Monofilament is just too picky for me to work with it.

I agree, it is a lot easier to match regular thread to the outer edge of the applique than to use monofilament in most machines. :D:D:D

Ok, I am one who loves using invisible thread, but when I use it for appliqué, I use it in the bobbin too, and use a small needle(size 60). I do however, use regular thread in the bobbin and invisible on top when quilting without problems.
What needle size are you using? Could it be too big? When it does sew, does the tension look right? I don't know much about your machine (or sewing), but surely if I can get it to work you could. I generally have to lower the top tension a bit, but never have problems with skipped stitches.
Sorry I can't me more of a help.

I think Candi is probably on to something. The invisible thread is so fine that if you try to sew with a needle that's too large or has too big an eye, the thread doesn't form a loop large enough to be caught by the hook. Skipped stitches.

Try a size 70/10 or even a 65/9 and see if that doesn't clear up your problem.

Since you can't adjust the upper tension, you may be able to compensate by tightening up slightly on the bobbin tension. Good luck! :)

I have a Viking and agree with Candi. I use invisable ALOT. The right needle( smaller is better 70/8 or smaller) , tension( usually you need to reduce the top tension) , and thread is so important. It also matters how the thread is winding off the spool. I use my cone holder as it allows the thread to relax a bit before going through the tension disks. I do not use the invisable thread from JoAnns, way to many issues. I buy from HomeSew or Coltilde. Since you are having a problem every 10 stitches I think you have a tension issue as it is coming off the spool as well as a needle issue.
I have even used it in the top and bobbin.

Great info have to save this.

I use invisible thread in my Brother XL2600 (cheapie little machine) with no problems. I use it on top with regular thread in the bottom. I never change my needle. I do use the blanket stitch instead of a plain zig zag, so maybe that's the difference. I buy mine from Quilt in a Day. I don't know what brand that is, but it works for me.

Good point, Lori.I too was advised to use the vertical cone holder for monofilament thread, less obstruction as it unwinds.

i do not use it much

I've never tried it on my sewing machine,but I have tried to use it when I hand quilt. Maybe it's just me but I have a hard time with using a thread that I can't see very well. Also it tends to knot up on me.Like I said maybe I might be doing something wrong,but I have quit using it.

I really appreciate all your help. I see that I am not the only one with problems, makes me feel better. Those of you who are successful use what make of thread? I have Sulky invisible using polyester in the bobbin. Thanks so much.
Lynne

I use Sulky too.

my machine like different mono thread. Some work and others don't. However, you may need to change tension even tho your machine is supposed to do it automatically.

I am still learning with invisible thread but I do use it quite often and for some effects I really like it. I keep reading that thread weight plays a big role in the success of your stitching...maybe the polyester in the bottom is just too heavy to stitch with the monofilament? I would definitely try using it in the top and bottom both and see how that works...at least to get through this current project of yours. After getting comfortable with that maybe experiment with other finer threads in the bobbin on scraps to see if you can find a pair that work well together.

I would like to try the sulky monofilament, but so far have only used the inexpensive Dritz brand sold in Jo Anns quilting section. ;) Good luck!

I think you are dead on here Parrot! I should have added that needles seem to play a big role as minor as they may seem. Just to give you an example, I was using a universal needles in my featherweight and for the life of me couldn't get it to stop skipping stitches. I tried rethreading, changing needles, double checking that there was nothing wrong with the bobbin placement. I thought for sure it was the timing. Before taking in to be repaired I switched to a sharp just to be sure and it's been working fine now for weeks. Just that tiny little adjustment of a finer needle with the thread I was using and it runs like new. ;)

I have used very heavy quilting thread in the bobbin and invisable thread in the top with great results. Needle size , plays a BIG issue( the smaller the better) , as well as tension, and good manufacture of the thread. Do not forget about how the thread is coming off the spool , for best results use a cone holder or cup. Sometimes you can make all the tension adjustments ... but of the thread is too tight prior to the tension disks.. sometimes all the loosening is still not going to help.