cutting threads on a featherweight
 

I am a relatively new quilter and use only a vintage featherweight, as forward and reverse seems all I need, plus I just like the sound and unfailing results. I do have one problem, when I finish sewing and need to cut the threads I am forced to use scissors but have a gizmo on the machine that is supposed to be used as an alternate way to cut thread. Either it is installed incorrectly or I am not using it properly but I find every time I go to use it seems worthless? It isn't that it is dull and likely the "operator" is the problem...can anyone help?

I know this question is something that likely will require some visual aids...so anyone with a camera and knowledge as to how to size and post them to their reply...would be incredibly helpful.

I've never actually used the thread cutters on my machines, I prefer scissors. The bevel (sharp end) should be up. I'm not sure if they get dull or were never that sharp to begin with. You can probably take it off and sharpen it a bit with a stone, I haven't tried. They are just a friction fit on the presser bar and will slide off with a little coaxing.
Rodney

I don't use the thread cutter, either. I've even taken the thread cutter off my 15-91 machines to allow the darning foot and walking foot a better fit. I know all my FWs have them but I still use scissors.

Most of the thread cutters on my machines are either dull, rusted, or missing. Rarely have I found one sharp enough to use. I don't know how they are supposed to be positioned on the bar either, but it seems they should be set so the cutting edge is to the far left with the tail part to the rear. Even that way I find them difficult to use.
I too use my nippers to cut the threads.


Joe

I don't have a featherweight, but I use these snips from:http://www.mygoodscissors.com/ThreadNippers.htm, item # 6204. The company has excellent prices and service.

The thread cutters after all this time are often dull or crud covered. Their placement does not make them intuitive for a right handed person to use. Since I'm a lefty I've never had problems using them. I remove them and use a dog bone to sharpen them.

Cari

I also prefer using scissors or nippers.

Umm, dog bone .... ????????


Joe

A small ceramic sharpener-
https://lansky.com/index.php/products/mini-dog-bone/
I don't remember where I got mine, I've had it for years.

Cari

I do too, but with several machines set up in different rooms and kidlets here all the time, sometimes one of my eleventy-hundred pairs are no where to be found.

Cari