Mitch's Gram

I always loosen my bobbin tension when I FMQ so it doesn't pull the top thread too tightly. If I don't loosen it, it's always pulling that top thread down. I loosen it just a bit, practice some curves and see how it does. If it helps, but doesn't get of it, I loosen it a bit more. I know where I have it set for piecing, so I can just move it back easily.

Susan0422

Thank you, Mitch's Gram. I actually returned the Singer and bought a Janome 6600P. Having said that, though, I am still not super happy with the stitches. I was told that that's just the way it is. It's definitely frustrating. Maybe I'm just too much of a perfectionist and want perfect looking stitches. I might try adjusting the bobbin tension, but am a bit apprehensive to do that. I did try the other bobbin case that Janome makes for free motion quilting but my stitches were worse using it! Oh well. May have to just accept what I'm getting. Thank you all for your suggestions.

MadQuilter

Some of it will improve with time and practice (LOTS of practice). In the meantime, can you use the same color thread in the top and bobbin? That way if either one bumps up a little, it won't be so noticeable.

Susan0422

Hi Martina. Thank you for your thoughts. I know that's what everyone suggests but I have a multi-colored top, with both light and dark fabrics, and my backing is just an off-white muslin so I am using a light thread on the back and am varying the thread on top to match the fabric. When I'm using the darker thread on top is when I'm seeing it on the back. I have gotten it to look much better and am told that I probably won't get it perfect. I'm trying to overlook it and not obsess over it. Perfectionism is not always my friend!