Stitch in the Ditch vs Echo Stitching
 

I'm trying to quilt what for me is a large quilt (60" x 60") stitching in the ditch on my sewing machine. I'm using YLI invisible nylon thread in the top, and regular thread in the bobbin. It's going pretty slowly--I'm using a top stitch needle, and have lowered the tension in the top quite a bit. I've had a few thread breaks when I'm going along a seam that includes crossing a lot of multiple seams, but have had no thread breaks at all on the more complicated areas that have fewer crossing seams. Have others had this experience too? Would I be better off using echo stitching where I'm not crossing seams at all, but just running parallel to them? Is it better to not cross seams?

I use YLI invisible thread and I don't normally have the problem you describe. I have quilted using metallic thread too and if I do have breakage, I put some of this lubricant called "All-Purpose Sewing Aid to aid the thread thru the sewing machine. I always have a spare bottle that I buy at JAF especially when notions are 50% off. GOOD LUCK!!

I've quilted quite a bit with the YLI polyester invisible, but I didn't use a top stitch needle, as it's a very fine thread. I don't remember though if I used a 70 or a smaller needle. But it wasn't a top stitch.

I too use a smaller needle size when using invisable thread.( inknow they recommend top stitch , but I have never had good luck with that large of a needle and invisable thread from any manufacture) I also allow for more space to have the tread relax before going through any of the machine threading. I use a cone holder set away from the machine.

Thanks for the tip on the All Purpose Aid - I think I'll try that from my JAF! Thanks!

It always amazes me the tips and hints I stumble across on this board!