This is going to sound like a silly question but since I don't know whether its someething I should listen to or not..Ok, well, when I first started quilting, I took a class and she taught log cabins (still love them by the way), sorry I digress. The two things this instructor said we had to do was always use the same sewing machine for each top and we were to use bobbin thread. Was this just her quirk or is there a logical reason for this?

I understand the same machine. the seam allowance may be differen't from machine to machine. and the blocks may not end up the same size.

Bobbin thread is thinner then regular thread. It add less bulk to the seams so the 1/4" seam allowance is more accurate when press to one side. Using the same machine is a good idea.

I use same thread on top as on bottom unless doing machine embroidery then use 'bobbin thread' But I agree use same machine for all a quilt top seam allowances may not be exact 1/4 to a scant 1/4 on another machine-- same as using same rulers when cutting out pieces for the top. hope this helps:)

I do lots of swaps and those blocks are most certainly not done on the same machine! I have never heard of bobbin thread.

Thank you for responding so quickly!! I am going to stop purchasing bobin thread but will be sure to try to use same machine. You have made a lot of sense!

I can see the same machine except you could always do the 1/4 inch seam allowance test. Sometimes teachers come across as 'this is the only way' but if you change it, the quilt police will not be knocking at your door. Not sure what the need for 'bobbin thread' is but Joann's sells it on huge spools. I just might check that out and google it. does anyone else know?

I make sure I use the same FOOT through out. made that mistake once, don't want to do that again. i use the same thread top and bottom except when i use monofilament. only have one machine so i can't really address that issue.

I can vouch for the same machine. I have a couple of tops that I started on one machine and continued on another. One of those tops is a UFO that I recently dug out and ended up having to scale down from a queen to a twin because my blocks were WAYYYYY off. Another quilt I plowed through basically fitting two different size blocks together into one quilt. Made it work...but it was work. I have since sworn that I will start and complete a project on ONE machine. I have no idea about the bobbin thread. I use the same thread top and bottom.

From this comment I found on line, I wouldn't want to use bobbin thread in my quilting: "Bobbin thread is a fine thread intended only for use in the bobbin during embroidery. It is not a strong thread, so don’t use it for regular sewing. This very fine thread reduces the build-up of thread under your embroidery, reducing bulk, and making your design."
It was at this URL: softer.http://www.meissnersewing.com/Meisne...ksJune2008.pdf