INfo about thread and tension for problem with threads

[coffeebreak]

I signed up for the Superior Newsletter and got this this morning...I can' find it on their web site. If you aren't already, join to get their newsletter. Always good stuff like this in there. But I copied and pasted this part about the solutions to thread problems as it has been an issue to many lately.


EDUCATION: TROUBLESHOOTING


Imagine you’re in the middle of a sewing project and the thread starts to shred, throw off lot of lint, or break. What do you do when trouble hits? Here is a step-by-step guide that will help you solve the problem. We assume you are using a superior thread to start with. This guide will not solve problems with low quality thread. Start with step one and continue until the problem is solved.

1. Re-thread the machine and try again. This may sound too elementary, but it is recommended.

2. Insert a new needle. Am I using the correct needle size for the thread?
a. very fine threads (60 wt.) and finer . . . #70/10 needle
b. fine threads (50 wt.) . . . #80/12 needle
c. medium threads (40 wt.) . . . #90/14 needle
d. heavy threads (30 wt. and heavier) . . . #100/16 needle

3. Loosen the top tension setting until the thread stops breaking. Recommended top tension for home machines is between 2.5 and 4.0 for most threads. Metallic thread requires the top tension to be set at 1.0 to 1.5 on most machines.
If you adjust the tension so loose that the top thread loops on the underside, tighten it up slightly until you get the perfect stitch. If you cannot find this perfect “sweet spot” because the thread either breaks (top tension too tight) or loops (top tension too loose), most likely the bobbin tension is too tight. Loosen the bobbin tension screw 1/4 turn. (This situation is rather common with longarm machines, but not so common with home machines.)

4. Check the thread delivery method.
Spools should be positioned on the top vertical spool pin so the spool unwinds straight from the side while the spool rotates. Spools should not unwind over the end of the spool because this adds a twist with every revolution.
Cones should rest on a flat surface so the thread unwinds directly over the top of the cone.
Most problems are usually solved by this point. If not, go to either step 5 or 6.

5. Test another spool or cone of the exact same thread type. It does not need to be the same color. If the second spool works fine, we can conclude that the first spool is bad. The best thread comes with a guarantee so request a replacement. If the second spool has the same result as the first, the problem is most likely with the machine.

6. Put the thread on another machine and go though steps 1-4. If it works well on the other machine, the thread is good and the problem is with the original machine. If it does not well on the second machine, we can conclude that the first spool is bad. Request a replacement.

[Carol336]

WOW - that is some good info. Thanks for posting it.

[Carolyn]

Thanks, great reference. Will print it and add to my folder.

[cindyinohio]

Thanks, that is good info.