ellala

I've tried 2 different threads as I can't find too many choices and they both tangled around the end of the spool during the quilting process. I'm using transparent because I have to get this quilt done and started hand quilting about 8 months ago and have to finish by 5/30/12 for a birthday gift. The thread seems really thin and wispy and is very hard to machine quilt, ie., pulling up the bobbin thread, etc. I've had to restart the process numerous times and am getting very frustrated. Does anyone know of a thicker nylon thread that won't tangle and wrap around the end of the spool? Any help would be appreciated.

virtualbernie

Do you use a thread net? That has helped me with both transparent and embroidery thread.

Lori S

I use a cone holder for mine , and buy the small cones, but I have also run spools on the cone holder. I never could get it to not tangle when using the machine spool holder.

Vanuatu Jill

I also tried a thread net-it makes allot of difference. I haven't done much machine quilting, but have done a fair bit of machine applique with invisible thread and wish I knew about the net long ago!

GrannieAnnie

thread nets (or socks) are one of the recent great inventions. Absolutely necessary for invisible thread.

Prism99

Is the thread on a spool or a cone? I use YLI nylon monofilament on a cone (bigger than spools) and use a thread net over it. (Thread nets are often sold for serger cones.)

I also place the cone in a small glass jar behind the machine and use an "outrigger" on my machine's spool pin, which basically is just a stick with a hole in each end; one hole goes over the spool pin, and I thread the thread though the other hole. This keeps the first thread feed a little away from the machine.

For nylon thread, it's important to reduce your upper tension because nylon is stretchy. Also, when you fill the bobbin, go slowly so you do not stretch the monofilament on the bobbin. Also, especially if you have a plastic bobbin, fill the bobbin only 3/4ths full; otherwise you may be putting enough thread on the bobbin to distort the bobbin's shape.

You really do not want to use a thicker nylong thread as it will be like fishing line in the quilt! However, you may find it easier to switch to a polyester invisible thread. These are thicker than nylon monofilament but can be easier to use.

virtualbernie

Superior Threads sells their monofilament with a net included with the spool. Don't know about anyone else, I just purchased a couple of spools with the net included.

ewecansew

You can get a net at a flower shop as many of their flowers come with a net around the blossom. Ask, they are usually thrown away.

Scissor Queen

If you always keep some tension on the thread it doesn't get all loose and twist up like that. Make sure the thread comes off the side of the spool or cone and you'll have a whole lot fewer problems with it.

GrannieAnnie

Good deal! I'll have to look for Superior if I ever use the billion yards on my spool.

Thanks!