Macybaby

Interesting about the difference in numbers, I have the "add on" digital tension readout - and with my bobbin set around 180 with the towa gauge, my top tension is set around 700 - so way, way different than mentioned above. And with different threads, I'll go between 500 and 800.

it's very possible that my "add on" unit has smaller increments, since I'm going between 300 units, and not 40-70 units. I don't normally see a change unless I go about 20 units. If I went down to 300, I'd have big loops on the bottom!

soccertxi

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1mRhcquZTM

and I agree with Macybaby. I had trouble with my Innova with intermitten tension issues. Turns out it was a bad bobbin winder. Got a new one and now can use any thread my little heart desires. Check your needle size too. Free motion puts alot of torque on a needle. It might not break it, but it can mess up the tension in a hurry.

Hang in there! You are learning to troubleshoot! (I know that does not ease the frustration, but it sounds Lot more positive!)

ssucf

I was told at a quilt shop that you need a certain size needle for a certain size thread. Superior has a chart that might help.

yellowwroses

thank you all for your help
Judy

MadQuilter

I found that I need to have the same thread in the top and the bobbin. Recently, I used a different thread in the top and I had nothing but trouble with my Sweet 16. I also found out that I needed to go to a larger needle (100/16 for 50wt thread) I use all types of thread and as long as top and bottom are the same there is no problem.