JanTx

I have a Brother XL 5130 which is usually a little workhorse. Today the top thread is breaking on almost every long seam I sew. Any suggestions?

Candace

Is your thread old or cheap quality?

erstan947

I usually do a standard, clean the bobin area, rethread bobbin, the needle thread. Put in a new needle maybe even put in a larger needle. If necessary use different thread. Then go from there.

JanTx

Thanks - I'll try it all. I used this same thread to machine quilt a lap quilt with no problems at all. Just this new project is giving me fits. I'll do the clean/rethead thing and see what happens.

Cyn

I hope it works for you soon!

fleurdelisquilts.com

Hope the cleaning and rethreading worked. Don't forget to oil the machine, too. One more suggestion is to check that a broken piece of thread isn't stuck in the tension gear before you start adjusting. Even a tiny piece can clog the gear and cause a strain on the thread. If everything else fails and you must adjust the tension, make a note of the number it's on before you start, adjust in small increments and sew after each adjustment. Hope it works.

Kas

Or your needle has a burr in the eye. Did you change your needle before starting the new project? I have had brand new needles have burrs. Really frustrating when that happens.

GrannieAnnie

My older Singer is doing the same thing. Actually I think it get tired sometimes.

I've tired cleaning as best I can. Rethreaded several times. I threw up my hands and called it a day.

Will try again tomorrow.

ckcowl

clean your machine , under the bobbin area and all around where there is lint built up and change your needle if it has been longer than 8 hours of sewing time. you will be amazed at the difference a little maintenance will make. :thumbup:

gaigai

If you are using an all cotton thread, switch to a poly or poly-wrapped cotton. Those are stronger. And it is NOT true that it will cut the cotton fabric over time. My Janome dealer recommends that everyone switch away from all cotton thread.