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machine quilting with clear thread

machine quilting with clear thread

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Old 02-21-2011, 08:14 AM
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I am machine quilting a sue bonnet quilt on machine using clear thread. I filled my bobbin with clear thread also. However, the bobbin (under neath) is knotting up and making a complete mess. Should I use white cotton thread in the bobbin? The backing of the quilt is muslin. What do I do? Thanks!
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Old 02-21-2011, 08:18 AM
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You can use the clear thread in the bottom but it must be wound very slowly as it stretches. Re do the bobbin, winding at half the speed usually done. Also, check the tension, sometimes it needs to be adjusted.
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Old 02-21-2011, 08:20 AM
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Most machines have difficulty with invisible thread in the bobbin. This is due to the invisible thread stretching, when using a bobbin winder. When it relaxes again during sewing, it will curl and knot up. I have never tried it. But I have heard you can wind your bobbins by hand and it will correct the problem. I use a normal thread in the bobbin, wenever I use invisible thread on top.
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Old 02-21-2011, 08:21 AM
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I usually have to change my tension. but I usually use reg. thread on the bobbin. Less headaches!
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Old 02-21-2011, 08:32 AM
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I've done it both ways - invisibie or regular thread in bobbin.
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Old 02-21-2011, 08:48 AM
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REgular thread in the bottom will fix the problem, otherwise it is a real pain to work with.
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Old 02-21-2011, 08:52 AM
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I never do clear thread in the bottom. Only on the top when necessary. I don't see the benefit of using clear thread, since it is visible no matter what. You are making holes on the fabric and this thread is not thin, so the holes are quite big. I tend to press my quilts after quilting and before squaring to make sure is straight, and most clear threads melt at high temperatures.
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Old 02-21-2011, 09:00 AM
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I have the best success when using regular thread in the bobbin. Do a bit of testing to get the top tension right. Some clear or inviasble threads I have to reduce the tension ALOT. some I only have to adjust by a tiny bit. I also use a very small needle in my machine as the invisable thread is thinner than regular thread. Using a top stitch needle will make a much bigger hole than you need and sometimes you will get skipped stitches.
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Old 02-21-2011, 09:04 AM
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I have used clear monofilament thread on the bobbin with no problems. But Quilts for Kids stresses not to use this thread because it melts in the dryer. (?) So have not used it since.
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Old 02-21-2011, 09:25 AM
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Originally Posted by pieces
I have used clear monofilament thread on the bobbin with no problems. But Quilts for Kids stresses not to use this thread because it melts in the dryer. (?) So have not used it since.
FYI - Superior Threads has a invisable thread specifically made for High heat !
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