How to Fix Bad Machine Quilting Stitches

re: How to Fix Bad Machine Quilting Stitches

AsianArtAndQuilts — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 14:24:17 GMT

Thanks for the tips. I'm sure evry quilter has struggled with at least one of these problems,if not more.Reiewing the basics is just the reminder needed. It's so helpful to draw upon the experience of others!

And "NO" I'm terrified to even think about adjusting the bobbin tension.

re: How to Fix Bad Machine Quilting Stitches

CypressJoan — Sat, 30 Jul 2011 22:16:36 GMT

When I learned to do "bobbin work" with the heavy thread/cord wound on the bobbin, I was hesitant to do the required loosening of screw of the bobbin case. You will feel braver if you purchase another bobbin case to use just for this purpose. Even then, before loosening the screw, make a mark with a fine marked to show the initial line up of the screw dent(?) Then you can always turn it back to the starting point without concern.

re: How to Fix Bad Machine Quilting Stitches

jabotquilt — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 01:11:48 GMT

I loved reading the comments. I have never adjusted the tension in my bobbin.... ever... and i only do fmq. I know, you are thinking, 'my what must her fmq look like?' LOL

re: How to Fix Bad Machine Quilting Stitches

cindy4346 — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:12:14 GMT

Thanks for this. It is reassurring that you experience some of the same challenges as a "baby" quilter like me! Cindy from Teulon, Manitoba Canada.

re: How to Fix Bad Machine Quilting Stitches

MarilynnGail — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 13:43:44 GMT

I like to do bobbin work; which means that I put heavier thread in the bobbin and turn my fabric right side down when doing free motion or embroidery. I use a separate bobbin holder that I can adjust just right for the thickness of the heavy thread. I keep my regular one just for sewing. It makes it much easier. I keep the bobbin in a small baggy noting it is for thread work!

re: How to Fix Bad Machine Quilting Stitches

nancyakibbee — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 12:43:36 GMT

I have been adjusting my bobbin tension for years so that I can use different thicknesses of thread in my bobbin more easily. I find that if I tug on the upper thread (make sure it is through the tensioner and the pressure foot is down) and get a feel for how tight it is adjusted and then tug on the bobbin thread it should feel about the same. It takes practice but after a while I got good at telling when they were ballanced.

re: How to Fix Bad Machine Quilting Stitches

galempress — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 12:06:25 GMT

Sure! when I first started sewing with my longarm I was having real trouble with the stitch balance, broken threads etc. I was at my wit's end with it. So I summoned up all my courage and turned that little screw a quarter turn (because that was all the bravery I had at the time, and took a real look at what happened.. Little by little, the stitches got better, more even and finally looked right as I moved the machine around curves... I'm so glad I did it! Now I have another tool in the toolbox of tricks for my artwork! (I'm just glad I didn't lose the screw)

re: How to Fix Bad Machine Quilting Stitches

Lindy101 — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 11:56:42 GMT

I have had my Viking centuries longer than I have had my husband, so I am very at home 'dismantling' my sewing machine. The bobbin tension screw is so very tiny that adjusting it is done in fairy eyelash increments. Nothing to freak out about. Adjust. Test. Adjust. Test. When you have tried Dijanne's suggestions and still have a problem-check for teensy hunks of thread lint between the tension plate and the actual body of the bobbin. Happens when some people don't clean the bobbin case area regularly enough. Ahem...