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Forums Archive » handi-quilter-discussion-group » hq-sixteen-discussion-group » Different thread on top and in bobbin
Different thread on top and in bobbin
vickig
Joined: March 20, 2009
Posted: March 20, 2009, 10:20 AM
Hi all,

I'm new here, just bought a used HQ16. I haven't had time to play yet, but have been doing alot of research and I noticed that sometimes quilters are using different thread on top and in the bobbin case. Just wondering what the reason for this is.

I did get a chance to play with the exterior bobbin winder and really didn't have great luck. I was using 100% poly serger thread, and the bobbins were squishy. I could acutally squish the thread on the bobbin. We tried cotton thread and it seemed to be better. We tried loosening and tightening the tension and different speeds, but couldn't get it right. Will this affect the actual sewing of the machine?

Thanks!
Re: Different thread on top and in bobbin
pointles
Joined: Jan. 30, 2009
Posted: March 23, 2009, 12:08 PM
Was it different thread color or just different thread? Different color I can understand. Wanting something to match or stand out better with the backing. Different thread same color, don't have a clue. I like you are new to long rm quilting, have been doing peice work for awhile. I'm having lots of fun looking and learning.Linda
Re: Different thread on top and in bobbin
crashnquilt
Joined: Nov. 24, 2008
Posted: April 1, 2009, 8:14 AM
First, I have found that the "squishy" bobbin will affect the actual stitching. On the bobbin winder, are you putting the thread thru the whole at the end of the pigtail above the tension disks? Try cleaning the tension disks there may be some lint caught in there. You want a firm bobbin.

Regarding different threads needle and bobbin, this will depend on your backing fabric. If you have a thicker, stiffer fabric on your backing you want to use a thread just a bit heavier than your needle thread. A thinner thread may not have enough strength to pull the needle thread into the quilt. I will say 99% of the time I use same thread needle and bobbin. I find adjusting tension is much easier. If I have a quilt with a cotton top but a flannel or heavy muslin on back I will use a heavier thread in the bobbin.

If you do want to use a different thread color in needle and bobbin I suggest using a medium to high loft polyester batting. This will help with covering up the "pokies" Once you are finished with the quilt wash and dry the quilt in the machine most all pokies should disappear.