My machine does not like any kind of metallic, invisible or decorative threads. I've tried the different needles, tension settings etc. Does anyone else have a finicky machine that's a thread snob?

Eeek, I'm still getting to know my machine, all I know so far is that it throws a hissy fit (broken off needle spat into my face and jammed bobbin) if it is not cleaned out underneath regularly.

I've not yet got brave enough to try different threads. I'm sure someone more experienced than me can offer advice, good luck!

What does it do if you use those threads? I have the same machine. I've used metallic, invisible, and embroidery thread with no problems.

I get knots and tangles underneath from the bobbin or the top thread breaks.

My quilting friend has a Janome 4800 and she doesn't have any problems using different threads. Maybe you need to adjust the tension when you are not using cotton thread.

I have a 3200 and a 6600 and I can run 'em thru too just fine. Just make sure to clean out the lint that could be lurking unseen...:))I love the old acrylic paint brushes w/camels hair...the fuzz seems to attach itself to it great. Skeat

Would using a Bobbin Genie work? It is a thin teflon disk that you inser between the bobbin case and the bobbin. It is supposed to prevent tangles and knots on the back side of you sewing. I use them in my sewing machines and quilting machine and it seems to help.

Kanoelani

I have a Singer Quantum 1000. I had trouble with metallics and other threads for embroidery when I found a Needle lubricant. I put a little on the metallic thread spool and do not have the breaks.
It has been a blessing for my rayons, silks and metallics.

Tell me more - this sounds like a useful gadget.

Moonpi,

The are called "Little Genie Magic Bobbin Washers". Sharon Schamber, a well known long-arm quilter, swears by them. Just do a google. They are sold in lots of online quilting stores.

Kanoelani

I just got a new Viking Sapphire 870 and found out the first day I used it that it doesn't like the cotton thread from ThreadArt.com. Which is unfortunate because right before I got the sewing machine I bought the 40 spool thread set. At least my old Singer doesn't have a problem with it.

I have the Janome 4800 but have only used cotton thread with it. I wonder what causes the trouble with other threads. Have you contacted the company to ask for advice?

The lady told me when I bought the Viking that Vikings are picky about their thread and wouln't take just any thread.

I've taken a couple of machine quilting classes and a lot of conversation is about using different threads. It seems that the secret to being successful with different types is to 1. adjust your tension accordingly, and 2. make sure you have the thread unwinding properly....cross wound thread doesn't like to be pulled from the top..it needs to be unwound directly (at the same height) to the "thingie" (yup, thats my technical term for it :roll: ) where you start to thread your machine. Other threads like to be unwound standing straight up and threaded through a tall hook....others can be unwound directly using the horizontal spool holder on the back of your machine. I think you pretty much just have to experiment to find the best combination for your machine. Good luck!

My machine has never had this problem (tangles on the bottom) until the other day. I noticed that the bobbin was wound loosely and unevenly. Changed the bobbin for another, and all was fine again.

Hi, I work for a Janome dealer in NY and when we see this problem the first thing we advise is to rethread machine. Be sure presser foot is up so thread goes thru tension disks and doesn't sit on the disks and use correct needle size to match thread and fabric. Good luck. :-)

great advice:) thanks everyone! I'll have to make a trip to buy some new threads to experiment.

I thought for a long time my Viking detested Gutterman thread. Then I found out I was putting hand quilting thread on the machine. It was doing all kinds of crazy stuff. I found a spool of sewing machine thread by Gutterman in my collection and it works great.

Linda

Hi there,
Sorry that you are having such problems. I have a janome 4800 and through a lot of trial and error (on my part) I have learned to use the different threads. I also wrote down on cards the settings and needles that worked with metalic threads etc, that way I could refer to them again. Keep trying is all I can say.
PS. I have been asked if I would like to sell my machine...NO WAY..lol
Alanna :wink: