toogie

I have a sit down long arm, in other words, not on frame. Has anyone ever had a problem where it won’t catch the bobbin thread? If I turn the hand wheel it will sometimes pick it up but the minute you try to quilt it won’t.

tallchick

Check your needle position, try another bobbin, unplug it and plug it in again and restart it.

dunster

Take off the needle plate, clean the machine, and check for any bits of loose thread in the bobbin area. Try a new needle (make sure it's sharp) and be sure it's facing the right way and fully inserted. Try a different bobbin and be sure it's wound correctly. Be sure the top thread path is correct and the thread goes the right way through the needle.

If none of that works, it could be a timing problem, but this is unlikely unless you have hit something with the needle when sewing. If you can, watch to see what the needle does as it approaches the bobbin.

mkc

All of these plus also check both top and bottom tensions. If one is really high, it might not let a stitch form.

quiltedsunshine

Sounds like either the needle is inserted incorrectly or the timing is off. Make sure the needle is pushed all the way up and is facing the correct position.

stitch678

Just adding to the great advice you've received. If you've changed needle, cleaned/oiled, checked bobbin et al, then try loosening the top tension a bit. Some threads need a tension tweek. If this is still happening, and your machine's got a lot of hours on it, your hook may be worn. To compensate for now, go up a needle size. Then get your machine in for service.

SallyS

The needle position isn't always straight forward. My LA works best when the needle is turned slightly to the right.