why pull thread to top?
 

I always see instructions that tell you to pull the bobbin thread to the top of the quilt at the beginning of the seam when quilting all the layers together. Why is this necessary? Why can't you just leave the bobbin thread on the bottom and pull the top thread down and tie it underneath when finished? Thanks.

It's the best way to prevent thread nests.

agree with the others, plus to me, it helps lock the start of a seam. It makes me really grumpy to have to try to get rid of a stray thread on the bottom. (And I generally do probably "overquilt" so it is tougher)

So as I do it different, I leave them on the bottom. When I am finished, I cut the bottom threads where still connected halfway between insertion points into the fabric. I then take a eyeless needle and spend an hour (or whatever) burying my top threads, then an hour (or whatever) burying my bottom threads. The time saved not worrying about pulling bobbin threads up makes up that time. You were going to have to bury them anyway. I don't have top threads, nor bottom bobbin threads pull out of my quilts after wash.

tim in san jose

My dear aunt told me to pull both threads to the back of the pressure foot and hold them there with your finger as you begin stitching. Never have had those thread tangles ever since. :thumbup:

You can't pull the thread to the back of the presser foot & hold it when it is under the center of an 80inch quilt Learner.

You and the OP are talking about two different things. The OP specifically asked about bringing threads to the top when quilting; your advice is correct but works only when piecing.

Josieh - I agree with the other posters; bringing both threads to the top help prevent thread nesting.

As my Mom used to say...............if you don't you get a rat's nest on the back.

You can if you have brought the bobbin thread to the top. You hold both threads toward the back and lower the pressure foot, doesn't matter where on the quilt you are.