angiecub

All,
I've done just a few applique projects and have really enjoyed it until now. I normally use Heat-n-Bond and do a zig zag stitch on the edges, but Joann Fabrics no longer carries Heat-n-Bond, so I bought Steam a Seam Lite instead. I noticed the zig zag stitches are skipping so there are large spaces in between stitches. I changed sewing machines, and it is happening with both. This didn't happen on my first block, so I am fairly sure it is the steam a seam gumming up the needle. Has anyone else had this problem and if so, what can I do? I have already ironed the shapes to the blocks, so I will have to start over and cut everything out again if this problem can't be corrected. Appreciate whatever input you can provide...Angie

Tartan

I am sure someone ill have the proper solution but I had to sew though some stick on Velcro circles. They were very sticky and I took a drop of my sewing machine between my 2 fingers and smoothed it up and down my needle to remove the gunk that was stuck on it and it helped lubricate the needle. This might help you but make sure it is a very slight bit so you don't get oil on your appliqués. Some of sewer's aid might work too?

jcrow

I use Steam a Seam Lite 2 all the time and have never had any problems with it. I've never had skipped stitches or had gummed up needles. It's always been a delight to work with. I've never worked with Heat-n-Bond before, so I don't know how that works, so I can't compare the two. I'm so sorry you are having trouble with your applique. Did you try a new needle? New thread and new thread in your bobbin?

I applique all the time and that's all I ever use, so I'm trying to figure out what else could be the problem.

mucky

I've used steam a seam all the time and never a problem.

DogHouseMom

Ditto for me ... have used steam-a-seam lite lots and never had a problem. Are you using a sharp or a ball point needle?

Lisa_wanna_b_quilter

I've never had that problem either, but if a gummy needle is the culprit you can clean it off with rubbing alcohol.

ckcowl

are you sure you got the steam a seam lite? the regular steam a seam is heavier and not meant to be sewn- it will gum up the needle- the lite is made to be sewn and does not gum up- have you changed needles? maybe you need a smaller/sharper needle. generally i use 'sharps' when working with any fusable-and a new needle generally really helps.

Jackie Spencer

I too use it all the time and have never had any problems.

mrsponcho1

I have made 2 quilts with steam a seam lite 2. Both times my needle would gum up, but I just cleaned with a little machine oil. I tried alcohol at first but I had better luck with the oil. The oil seemed to keep the needle cleaner longer. I did find that I had to change my needle more often.

Vanuatu Jill

I also have used it for many appliqué projects without any problems. I mostly hand appliqué, but have machine appliqued several projects without problems