MollieSue

I'm trying to FMQ using sulky invisible 100% polyester thread (both on top & bottom), and my bobbin thread keeps breaking. Grrrrrrr.
I've got my upper tension on 5, using a 14/90 needle......
Any one have any hints?

This is my first time trying the invisible, as no solid color will match, (grandson's birthday quilt of big yellow appliqued smiley faces, on blue backgrounds - his design!) and I'm about ready to toss it all out the window!
Thanks!!!!
Diana :)

amma

Are you using invisible thread in the bobbin?

MollieSue

Yes, I'm using it in both the top and bobbin thread

amma

It is not recommended to use it in the bobbin.
But if you are, they say to only wind the bobbin 1/3 full, the thead gets stretched while winding and can cause problems :wink:

amma

also, if you can, wind it really slowly :D

Julie Baird

Try reducing your needle tension. Because monofilament thread has stretch is creates its own "tension" (think about if you were sewing with the old elastic thread) as it goes through your machine. By reducing the needle tension (I always reduce my by 2 whole numbers on my Viking D1 and then fine tune from there).

If you use monofilament in your bobbin, remember to wind slowly. If your bobbin is plastic wind somewhere around half full. I've had a plastic bobbin pop open because I wound too much thread on it. If the monofilament gets warm while winding fast...it can stretch as its wound. That will increase the probability of the bobbin thread breaking, too.

The alternative for the bobbin is to change to a nice 50 wt cotton like Aurifil or Masterpiece. They will look nice and play nicely with the monofilament.

Hope this helps...

Julie

MollieSue

Ahhh.... I do have the bobbin fully wound, with the invisible.

Ok, I'll switch the bobbin to the blue, the backing is a solid color, so will be fine. I've only have a bit done so far, so won't be a biggie starting over!

Thanks so much Amma!!! :) :)

MollieSue

Thanks Julie, I didn't know about differences in winding the bobbin before!

amma

You are very welcome, I hope that you have an easier time now :D:D:D
I can't wait to see the finished quilt!

MollieSue

Ok.... I just tried a bit using the blue bobbin thread, and it's showing on the top side - any ideas on how to stop that? :roll:

Or maybe I should just try out my new walking foot and stitich it in the ditch, forget the FMQ?