azwendyg

Also consider changing your needle. Not too long ago I was struggling with the same kind of issues, and finally changed out the needle. It was like a miracle! All my "thread" problems went away.

mommatomboy

Diffently use the same tread in your bobbin as you use for quilting. I agree with making a sandwich with left over batting and fabric to try different treads. Better safe then sorry.Happy Quilting

kimnkell

The needle size that I am using is a size 14bp... I thought I had bought an assorted pack of needles but looks like I bought 40 needles in this size....lol... Tried some new thread just now and it def. sews better and isn't knotting up but I'm having problems with it skipping stitches when I turn a corner while free motion quilting and then on the back of the quilt it is sorta loopy in spots and not all the time does it do this just some of the time. Any idea's what may be causing it? It was doing fine until my free motion foot broke and I bought another foot to use. I also put in a new needle at that time as well so I think I will change the needle now and see if that helps any.

Rose Marie

Every machine is different you just have to try different threads with them.
My new strait stitch did not like Connecting Threads but did like the Coats and Clarks machine quilting thread.
My drop in bobbin machine is less picky and can use both with it.
I prefer a drop in bobbin but the strait stitch has a horizontal that is a pain along with threading the machine. Its like going back to primitive times.

kimnkell

Here's a link to what the stitches look like now since I have changed the needle to a size 11 and changed the thread in the bobbin and what I'm sewing with.

http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-152122-1.htm#4179878

SewCalGal

I think all of the suggestions are excellent. As an FYI, I used inexpensive threads when I first learned to free-motion quilt. But I've learned that the FMQ just flows better with higher quality threads. Personally, I like Superior threads 40 & 50 wt 100% cottons, Aurifil's 40/50 wt and also YLI's silk. Better quality threads produced better quality results, and don't come with all the hassles that cheap thread come with. Well worth the extra money.

SewCalGal
www.sewcalgal.blogspot.com

Kas

What will help with tangling thread is to get a thread stand for the back of your machine. It gives the thread a longer space to relax before going through the tension discs.

SuperiorThreads

It looks like your upper tension is too loose. Using "cheap" thread is really a mistake. There can be bumps along the thread, thick and thin areas in your thread which can cause tension problems and breaking problems. Don't ever use hand quilting thread or any thread that says "glaced, glazed or coated". These thread are not meant to go in machines and can gum up your bobbin area and needle. Here is a Home Machine Reference guide that might help you with tension, needle size, etc. http://www.superiorthreads.com/media..._HOME_9-11.pdf

This really helps me when changing threads or having problems. Needle size, tension and delivery are three things to check.

Ricci

QultingaddictUK

Couldn't agree more, there is no such thing as a cheap thread as it works out so expensive in rotten stitches, bad tempers etc; etc; go for a decent thread you won't regret it.

BTW I started using the "Superior" bottom line thread brilliant thread and so cheap as it goes on forever :thumbup:

Doreen

Listen to Ricci from Superior threads. Superior has their "try Me" specials. Go their website. Its a great way to try thread products.