coffeecozy

Can I make an odd suggestion? Try stitching in the ditch fmq. I always do mine that way and I think it has helped me to learn to control my speed and the quilt. Maybe if you are doing a movement that you are already comfortable with it will help. You are used to the speed that your hands are moving for that machine speed and the sound that goes along with it. If you are still having breakage problems you will at least have taken your movement and speed out of the equation.

SusanSusan33

I have a 6600 and do a lot of FMQing on it. I like a size 90 topstitch needle. I usually use Aurifil or connecting threads cotton thread. I have wanted to try the trilobal poly for a while. Need to go find some!!

I also bought the special bobin case. Not sure that it really helped all that much. I also have the slippery mat (sew slip? I bought on Amazon).

It looks like you have a lot of good suggestions above. Did you find anything that helped?

matraina

Don't know whether this will help but Leah Day says she always quilts with the feed dogs up. She used to use Janomes. Don't know what she uses now. She has a blog and teaches something new each day.

newbee3

WELL I was taught metal to the pedal but in my case that did not work for me. If you can slow your machine down it may help that is what did it for me. I also used the silk thread it is real fine and very forgiving sure I made mistakes but when I got done it looked okay Well what it did for me was to give me the courage to keep trying and using heavier threads and different designs. I sure hope you keep trying you should do it every day for at least 10 minutes or more you will be surprised by the end of a week or so.

Sassylass

THank you for asking this question and thank you to all the ladies that have given great advice!

Deb watkins

The Janome machines require you to move the tension dial to 6. I know it doesn't say that in the book, but the dealer and sales rep I deal with both say this is so. Works for me.

quiltmaker52

I just finished fmqing 2 queen size quilts on my 6600. I always start with a new needle (I use Organ needles). Feed dogs are down, and my tension is set between 8 and 9. I set the speed control about 3/4, and always use the foot pedal. That way I can really control the speed. I use thread from Connecting Threads in both the top and the bobbin (no special bobbins, washers, or case) and have no problems now. However, I have had lots of practice. As others have said, if you move the fabric too fast, that can cause the thread to snap. Also be sure to keep your quilt as flat as possible around the needle. Don't give up!

coopah

Or join a guild where members are happy to help you and bring in instructors once or twice a year. Some quilt shops also give lessons, but be careful with that. I see you list Leesburg and I'm in Ocala. Our guild is terrific at helping you learn and is open to anyone for nominal dues. The Villages have quite a few guilds, but I think you actually have to live there to join. FMQ is not my area of expertise, so I have no suggestions. I'm a PA-FL gal, too!

Z Any Mouse

Lots of good advice from everyone here. The only thing I can add is, try using a thread stand. I'm a Janome girl, owning a 6600 and 8900, and I use a thread stand to feed all my thread through, no matter what size or brand spool I'm using. I've heard that Janome's can be thread snobs, but I have never had a problem with breakage or snagging when I use the thread stand. Practice on something other than your quilt, maybe a mug rug, to test it out. Good luck!

mustangquilts

I too, use 0 stitch length and sew slower. If my thread breaks a lot I will mist the thread cone, because sometimes it is dry and tends to break.